Crawl spaces are frequently associated with spiders and neglected holiday ornaments, yet they are crucial for a home's health and energy efficiency. If you've encountered the term crawl space encapsulation, you might be bewildered by the conflicting information. Is it a viable solution or merely another home improvement gimmick?
As the experts in professional crawl space encapsulation at Restore-It, we have addressed numerous client concerns and questions over the years. Having a deep understanding of the common misconceptions surrounding this type of project, we are here to share our experience to clarify encapsulation and teach you a thing or two about the subject.
Today, we will examine the ten most prevalent myths and misconceptions about crawl space encapsulation. Covering everything from standard questions about pricing to more technical issues such as radon levels, we will thoroughly investigate the advantages and disadvantages of this type of project. Let's begin by revealing the truth behind these myths and distinguishing fact from fiction in professional crawl space encapsulation!
Top 10 Myths & Misconceptions about Crawl Space Encapsulation (Debunked!)
With all the information floating around regarding crawl space encapsulation, it's easy to get lost in a sea of half-truths and outright fabrications. Before you jump to conclusions, let's separate fact from fiction so you can make an informed decision about what's best for your home.
1. Encapsulation Worsens Indoor Air Quality
Many homes in South Arkansas still have crawl spaces because they are much cheaper than building a basement and provide a buffer zone between the damp ground and the wooden parts of a home. Most crawl spaces have vents to allow the air from below to pass through; however, due to a physical phenomenon known as the "stack effect," the cold, humid air goes inside the house, worsening indoor air quality.
Professional crawl space encapsulation, when done correctly, actually improves the air quality of a home by sealing all entry points and controlling the humidity of the area with a dehumidifier. This type of project creates a healthier living environment when compared to a non-encapsulated crawl space.
2. You Only Need Encapsulation If Your Home is Old
While it is true that older homes would benefit more from encapsulation than newer ones, this doesn't mean new homeowners shouldn't consider investing in this type of project. First, by investing in professional crawl space encapsulation, you will protect your home from moisture problems and pest infestations in the future. Plus, this home improvement project adds value to the property and enhances energy efficiency and indoor air quality, making it a good investment in the long term.
3. Encapsulation Produces High Levels of Radon
Radon is a natural radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the soil. According to the American Cancer Society, prolonged exposure to this gas can lead to lung cancer, and there are some studies that link it to other types of cancer, including adult and childhood leukemia.
Given that encapsulation "seals" the crawl space, some believe it can also retain the radon, increasing its concentration levels. The reality is that a professionally done crawl space encapsulation project seals the exterior, preventing the outdoor air from entering. It also includes a dehumidifier that redirects airflow in a controlled manner. If you are still concerned about the radon levels in your home, you can contact professionals to test for radon and ask about a radon mitigation system if you need it.
4. Encapsulation It's Too Expensive and Not Worth It
The crude reality is that encapsulation can be a significant investment, depending on your case. Typically, a project of this nature costs around $6 per square foot, not including taxes. However, the bill can grow larger in some cases if the space needs add-ons like a bigger dehumidifier or a sump pump.
But here is where you have to think about the long term. By encapsulating your crawl space, not only will you add value to your home, you will also improve its energy efficiency (meaning smaller bills at the end of the month), reduce moisture problems (preventing costly repairs), and improve your indoor air (making it less likely to suffer from respiratory problems). All of these benefits can be translated into savings in the long run.
5. Once Encapsulated, You Can Forget About It
Encapsulation is like a partnership. You've done your part by investing in it, but still need to maintain it. Regular inspections are necessary to ensure everything is working as it should. Checking for any signs of leaks or damage will prolong the benefits of the encapsulation. Thankfully, you can program an inspection along with a biannual change of your dehumidifier's HEPA filter.
6. Encapsulation Only Works For Damp Crawl Spaces
Crawl space encapsulation indeed involves sealing the gaps with a vapor barrier and using a dehumidifier for moisture control, but that's not its only benefit. Regardless of their specific crawl space condition, all homes can benefit from encapsulation. Besides reducing moisture, encapsulation also helps prevent pest infestations, improve indoor air quality, enhance energy efficiency, and add value to a property.
7. Encapsulation Takes Care of Pest Control
Spiders, rodents, and other critters love a dark, humid place to hide from the weather outside. And what checks all those boxes? Yes, an untreated crawl space! Now, while this nightmare scenario can turn into a bad memory with crawl space encapsulation, the truth is that you should still be on the alert for pests. Encapsulation covers all entry points for the crawl space but not the rest of the house. To keep a pest-free environment, you will need regular inspections and, sometimes, active pest control measures.
8. Some Crawl Spaces Are Too Small to Encapsulate
Even the smallest crawl spaces can benefit from encapsulation. While it might be a tight squeeze for the professionals doing the work, it's often doable. It will require excavating a little if the area is too small to fit the dehumidifier. In any case, it's best if you don't just assume your crawl space is too tiny without getting a professional opinion first.
9. Encapsulation is Just a Home Improvement Fad
While some home improvement trends come and go, crawl space encapsulation is gaining traction for a reason. As energy efficiency and indoor air quality become increasingly important, encapsulation is proving to be a valuable solution for many homeowners. It's not just a fad; it's a smart investment in your home's future, and it's here to stay.
10. Crawl Space Encapsulation is a DIY Dream
Are you looking for a little home improvement project you can do yourself this upcoming season? Then keep looking because crawl space encapsulation should NOT be on that list. This type of project involves a lot of technical know-how to ensure a proper seal of the space. Plus, you must also know what equipment to use and how to put lights and a dehumidifier in a dark, tight space.
Speaking of navigating small spaces, due to their nature, crawl spaces tend not to leave much room for moving around, which can be especially dangerous if you do this task alone. This is why most crawl space encapsulation companies will have a team of at least two people to do the job. In conclusion, while many home improvement tasks are perfect as DIY projects, crawl space encapsulation is best left to the professionals.
Want a Healthier Crawl Space? Call Restore-It!
Crawl space encapsulation can be a game-changer for your home, but it's essential to separate fact from fiction. By learning about the most common myths and misconceptions, you should be able to make a decision free from unsubstantiated fears. If you are ready to take the next step to encapsulate your crawl space, then your following action is to contact Restore-It. Our team is prepared to help you improve your home and make it a healthier living environment.
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