3 Crawl Space Moisture Mistakes to Avoid

As a homeowner, the last thing you want in your crawl space is too much moisture. Whether in the form of water or vapor, excess moisture can lead to mold, structural damage, indoor air pollution, pest infestations, and other costly problems.

Here are some common mistakes you should avoid if you want to keep your crawl space clean, dry, and problem-free.

Not installing a water vapor barrier.

The ground is a huge natural source of water, and some of this moisture can evaporate straight into your crawl space. In areas where the water table is only slightly below ground level, as much as 12 gallons of water per day can evaporate. A vapor barrier is a thin sheet of polyethylene installed on the ground in your crawl space. When properly installed, these barriers can keep water in the ground and out of your home.

Venting appliances to the crawl space.

Appliances (such as your clothes dryer or home heating system) should always be vented directly to the outside, but many homeowners make the critical mistake of venting into their crawl space. This is a big problem for two reasons. First, the air that is vented is usually warm and humid, thus bringing more moisture into your crawl space. Second, and more importantly, these appliances may be producing carbon monoxide; a poisonous gas you want as far away from your home as possible.

Gutters and downspouts too close to the house.

Your gutter system isn't just for looks, it is an important component that helps protect your home from water damage. If your gutters are clogged, water could be pouring over the edge of your roof, dumping next to your foundation and seeping into your crawl space. Make sure your gutters are cleaned at least twice per year, and your downspouts are directing water far enough away from your home.

Has too much moisture led to problems in your crawl space? Contact Long Island's crawl space cleaning experts at GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration. If you live in Nassau County or Suffolk County, call us today for a free estimate at (631) 940-8100.