Side Effects of a Damp Crawlspace:
Excess moisture in your home can lead to some serious problems. High humidity levels can decrease the value of your home and put your and your loved ones' health in harm’s way.
It is important to accurately identify moisture issues in your crawlspace.
This is because such issues can lead to serious problems, such as mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage. By identifying and addressing moisture problems in a timely manner, you can prevent these issues from occurring and ensure that your crawlspace remains in good condition.
Today, we'll be diving into seven of the most common side effects that come from having too much moisture in your crawl space:
Mold & Mildew – Mold is usually the first thing homeowners think of when they think of a crawlspace that is in bad condition. You might be able to smell potential growth right away, but the tricky part about this issue is that uncovering the source can be challenging. Mold can remain hidden in places such as behind wallpaper, paneling, under ceiling tiles, carpets, pads, etc., for an extended period of time. Anywhere that condensation can form, mold can make itself at home. Most of us think of black mold when we think about how dangerous this growth can be, but there are many types that can still lead to potential health or structural concerns. If growing mold of any kind goes unchecked, it can have negative consequences for you and your home.
Water Damage – Water damage to your home is incredibly difficult to reverse, especially when it comes to wood. If your home's structural integrity consists of wooden beams, any water that finds its way to them will soak in, risking the chance of destroying the entire foundation.
Musty Odors – While a musty odor can serve as a warning to indicate a larger problem (like we discussed earlier), it's also just unpleasant to smell. For the sake of your own comfort, if you smell something, say something!
Condensation – Once moisture starts to build up, you will begin to notice a dew inside of your crawl space. Condensation may not seem like a huge deal, but it usually indicates a larger problem.
Rotting Wood – if you have hardwood floors near an affected crawlspace, they may begin buckling or bending. This is a tripping hazard, and replacing your hardwood floors can be very costly. If high humidity levels come into contact with your home's structure, it will become a much larger problem.
High Humidity – Depending on the climate where you live, you might already be dealing with extreme humidity throughout the year. High humidity can ruin the air circulation in your home, making it hard to keep cool during these hot summer months.
Pest Infestations – Tons of creatures thrive in humid environments. If you have excess moisture in your crawl space, you might find yourself subject to unwanted visitors. A few bugs may seem relatively harmless, but what follows them can cause some real damage. Wood-destroying insects, such as termites, carpenter ants, and even rodents, can be drawn to a damp, dark area. Some of these pests even carry diseases, which can expose you and your family to potential health issues.
How do you know if the moisture levels in your crawl space are too high? You can measure the humidity level with a digital thermo-hygrometer. If the humidity levels are outside of the 60-70 percent range, it might be time to take action.
If you have a damp crawlspace or your crawlspace is experiencing any of these negative side effects, reach out to the experts at Crawlspace Solutions today at 1-800-411-0335!
As a family-owned and operated business since 1987, we have the experience necessary to keep your crawlspace healthy. Ready to schedule your crawlspace inspection with a professional? Click here to book online. Online booking is available according to service areas by County.