The crawl space, or the narrow space under a floor or roof, is an important part of a house’s structure. It provides room for plumbing work, wiring, HVAC system installations, and other fixtures. That said, homeowners must repair their crawl spaces from time to time to ensure they are usable. If someone decides to repair the crawl space themselves, they should avoid a few mistakes to prevent problems in the long run.

Using spray foam insulation in the crawl space
Spray foam insulation generally has many advantages, but not if used in the crawl space. Because of excess moisture in this area, the foam insulation may give rise to mold and mildew and cause damage over time. Instead, one may opt for fiberglass insulation in the crawl space to avoid trouble. This type of insulation is easy to install with professional help and affordable.

Not having a proper drainage system in the crawl space
Stagnant water in any area of the house, including the crawl space, can cause severe damage. Crawl spaces are especially vulnerable to rainwater accumulation, which can cause mold and mildew growth. That’s why it is crucial to have a proper drainage system installed here to expel rainwater and not let it collect. But simply installing a drainage system is not enough—one should also frequently check whether it needs repairs and carry out such work immediately to avoid problems like choking of the drainage system.

Installing too many vents in the crawl space
Rainwater usually drains out faster if there are more vents in the crawl space. But at the same time, too many vents increase humidity by allowing hot air to enter. High humidity, in turn, increases moisture, which ultimately damages the area. So, it is best to have fewer vents and a proper drainage system in the crawl space instead of installing more vents than necessary.

Overlooking the importance of a sump pump
A sump pump drains accumulated water from a surface and redirects it to an outdoor drainage system. These pumps are excellent additions to a crawl space because they accelerate water removal during a flood and prevent moisture. Sump pumps can be a little expensive if they have advanced features, but they help keep the crawl space dry and clean. One can compare the options available and pick a model that best fits their needs and budget.

Not installing a dehumidifier
Humidity is the precursor for moisture retention. A good way to alleviate the effects of humidity in crawl spaces is to install a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers prevent moisture, ensuring mold and mildew do not form in the area and cause colossal structural damage. When buying a dehumidifier for a crawl space, one should ensure it is from a reputed brand and can handle high moisture levels. One should also use it correctly, as instructed by the manufacturer, for the best outcome.

Not taking off the subfloor insulation
Leaving the subfloor insulation intact after insulating a crawl space is a common mistake. Many think mold cannot grow behind the insulated paper layer. But the fact remains that mold can grow on any organic substance, even behind paper stuck on the insulated subfloor. That’s why removing the subfloor insulation is important every time one insulates the crawl space.

Not removing mold physically
Homeowners often spray a disinfectant over developing mold and think the solution will make it disappear. This is a huge mistake. The spray destroys the mold but keeps it intact on the surface. Such accumulated mold can cause serious issues in the long run and spoil the place’s aesthetics. So, one should always go further and physically remove mold after destroying it with a spray. While this takes time and effort, it helps maintain a healthy, mold-free crawl space.

Adding vapor barriers to floor joists
Many companies suggest adding vapor barriers to wooden floor joists to prevent moisture from entering them. But it may not work, especially when one lives in an area prone to hot summers. During summer, condensation is common in the crawl space. The moisture accumulated due to condensation gets trapped between the joists and the vapor barrier. As a result, the crawl area gets wet, increasing the chances of mold and mildew growth. So, one should evaluate the weather conditions and consider other factors before installing vapor barriers to floor joists.

Not hiring a professional for crawl space repairs
Crawl space repair is not everyone’s cup of tea. Individuals may find the job challenging, especially if they are not qualified. Fortunately, many trained professionals and companies repair crawl spaces within a set budget. It is always a good idea to seek professional guidance when repairing the crawl space to ensure the job is done meticulously and as needed. Before hiring a professional for crawl space repair, one should check the company’s credibility and experience, specifically in this line of work, since crawl space repair is quite different from repairing other areas in a home. It is also a good idea to check out online reviews of the company and speak with friends, family members, and neighbors about the company’s credibility.