Crawl Space Encapsulation

Crawl Space Encapsulation is the application of a thick heavy-duty plastic membrane to envelop the entire crawl space, which includes the floor, wall framing. An encapsulation membrane can be likened to the liner ,Though these products are referred to as plastic mastic or "drip stopping" barriers, the actual material used in building these barriers are more like a thin layer of plastic. Although, these products are more commonly used in industrial applications, moisture barrier under the house cost is comparable to this product.

Crawl Space Encapsulation decreases energy loss due to direct moisture absorption. This is particularly important for homes with multiple crawl spaces. Energy efficiency is an integral part of building construction, and crawl space encapsulation can allow contractors to maximize energy efficiency through prevention of moisture transfer. Moisture transfer can reduce energy efficiency by up to 25% in existing structures, with long term protection potentially increasing energy efficiency by as much as 30%.

Crawl Space Encapsulation prevents condensation between the exterior wall framing and the floor joist. Condensation is the process of water sitting on a moist surface for an extended period of time, thus depleting the structural materials. When there is condensation, it becomes hard to clean, which leads to increased health risks and damage to the floors, walls, insulation, and paint in the home. In addition, it can cause cracks in wood framing, and damage to the aesthetics of the home.

If mold spores are present, mold can be a serious health risk. Mold spores can be inhaled and cause illness when they are ingested or come into contact with contaminated clothing, foods, or drinks. Crawl space encapsulating prevents the entry of mold into the home by sealing off the area. This prevents the spread of mold and mildew, and it also repels potential mold and mildew-causing pests.

 

Crawl space encapsulations are effective for a number of reasons. First, it significantly reduces energy cost.  When properly installed, this type of roofing can save homeowners hundreds of dollars per year in heating and cooling costs. The insulating properties of the material also reduce sound infiltration. Homeowners will have reduced sound infiltration through doors and windows, and they will also have reduced heat loss through walls. Crawl Space Encapsulation also reduces the structural damage caused by moisture absorption.

 

A home with a sealed crawl space insulation layer will have a nearly monsoon-like climate, because there will be little change in the temperature. Mold and mildew growth will not form because moisture will not accumulate in spaces between the walls and insulation. And, while there will still be some seasonal moisture movement, moisture will be restrained so that it does not enter the home in the first place.

 

Call for a Free Estimate 501-762-3999

 

Question: What is moisture barrier under house cost?

Answer: Crawl Space Encapsulation / moisture barrier costs vary, So a broad answer is..$1.50 - $5 per square foot

 

Question: Should every house have crawl space encapsulation done?

Answer: No, not all houses have moisture problems. And it's not cheap to do. But if you have a strange smell in your house or moisture problems then give us a call! 501-762-3999