Environmental Benefits of Closed Crawlspaces

Reduce Crawlspace Moisture & Radon Levels!

“...a closed crawl space is a foundation without wall vents that uses air sealed walls, ground and moisture control, and mechanical drying potential to control crawl space moisture”

The definition of a closed crawl space is a foundation without wall vents that uses air sealed walls, ground and moisture control, and mechanical drying potential to control crawl space moisture. Insulation may be located at the floor level or at the exterior wall. The main contributor of crawl space damage is moisture. Excessive moisture leads to problems such as fungal growth, mold growth, and wood rot, and creates a perfect environment for insect infestation.

Since we are in the heating and air conditioning industry as well, we find that many of the equipment failures in the crawl space are due to excessive moisture. Another concern for a homeowner with a vented crawlspace is the infiltration of radon. Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the ground, enters the crawlspace and leaks into the living space due to the “stack effect”. This “stack effect” continues to draw the air from the crawlspace, through the living space, into the attic space and eventually out through the roof.

Reduce Radon and Crawlspace moistureDid you know that according to the World Health Organization (WHO) radon is the second most important cause of lung cancer after smoking? Exposure to radon in the home is responsible for an estimated 20,000 lung cancer deaths each year. Through extensive studies, researchers have realized that properly enclosing the crawl space is the most effective way to correct these harmful conditions.

A properly closed crawlspace can:

  • Eliminate mildew/mold odors originating from below and entering the living space
  • Prevent mold growth by controlling temperature/humidity levels
  • Eliminate wood rot
  • Create an undesirable environment for insects
  • Save 15-18% annually on energy usage
  • Help control Radon levels