Under The Feet: Beware Of What Lurks In Your Crawl Space

Crawl spaces are ideal to access electrical wiring, plumbing, ductwork and drain pipes. Aside from these situations, how often do you pay attention to your crawl space? Probably not too much because what’s out of sight, is also out of mind. However, there are a host of potential problems that can arise in your crawl spaces leading to larger issues — and not to mention costly repairs! Perhaps you notice increased dampness in the home or start to see rats scurry around cupboards. These are all indications that your crawl space needs an inspection — stat!

Here are some of the dangers you may find lurking around below your home.

Moisture damage

Mold and fungus are likely to grow rapidly in crawl spaces due to excessive moisture. Not only do they lead to wood damage, but they’re also a serious health concern. Mold spores can easily enter the living space above, exposing the inhabitants to toxic substances and irritants. Those who are sensitive to these allergens may experience fever-hay type symptoms, skin rashes, runny nose and watery eyes.

What's worse; leaky plumbing can also damage the insulation in your crawl space causing structural irregularities and cracked materials. Therefore, its best to get your crawl space inspected periodically to avoid costly repairs.

Pests

From rats to water bugs and termites, your crawl space can be infested by all sorts of pests! They specially enjoy the damp, rotting wood below your home in addition to the food sources in close proximity like garbage and compost. Mice and raccoons eventually get inside crawl spaces and seek out warmer areas to make nests and reproduce. Rodents also tend to chew on electrical wiring, plastic plumbing and destroy insulation.

Termites in the crawl space are plainly obvious from their mud tubes formed on foundation walls and piers — a source of structural damage. Bear in mind that there may as well be pests where there are pesticides, which is why you shouldn’t inspect crawl spaces without protective gear.

Ventilation problems

Did you notice an unusual hike in your electricity bill? This is probably because the ventilation in your crawl space isn’t working properly. Your vents may be broken or blocked by insulation. Plus, improper ventilation can have adverse effects on the indoor air quality of your home.

Now that we’ve told you the importance of inspecting your crawl space, we have just what you need to improve the conditions of your crawl space. Our online store features an extensive collection of crawl space doors, flood vents, ventilation fans, vapor barriers and much more to properly seal the space beneath your home. Sign up today!