Dehumidification
Reasons to Dehumidify
- Mold Prevention: High humidity creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can compromise your HVAC system, affect indoor air quality and harm building materials.
- Wood Preservation: Excess moisture can lead to wood rot and damage to structural components, such as floor joists and beams.
- Pest Control: Damp conditions can attract pests like termites, rodents, and insects, which thrive in moist environments.
- Improved Air Quality: Moisture can contribute to musty odors and can be drawn into living spaces, affecting overall air quality.
- Energy Efficiency: Reducing humidity can help HVAC systems operate more efficiently, leading to lower energy bills.
Methods of Dehumidification
- Dehumidifiers: These units can be placed in the crawl space to actively remove moisture from the air. Learn more about the Aprilaire Dehumidifier.
- Vapor Barriers: Installing a fiber-reinforced vapor barrier (typically a thick, dual plastic sheet) on the ground of the crawl space can help prevent moisture from the soil from evaporating into the air.
- Insulation: Insulating the “rim joist” stops air infiltration & humidity from entering the crawl space. Learn more about our Foam Insulation.
- Grading and Drainage: Proper grading around the foundation and effective drainage systems (like gutters and downspouts) can direct water away from the crawl space, reducing moisture accumulation.
Maintenance and Monitoring
- Regular Monitoring: Use our hygrometer to monitor humidity levels. Ideally, crawl space humidity should be kept between 50-55%. Learn more about our Acurite Hygrometer.
- Inspections: Periodically inspect for signs of mold, water intrusion, pest activity, or any tears in the liner. Learn more about our Annual Maintenance Program.
- Routine Maintenance: Maintain dehumidifiers and other systems to ensure they are functioning effectively.
Dehumidifying a crawl space is an essential part of home maintenance that can prevent significant structural and health issues. Implementing a combination of methods tailored to the specific conditions of the crawl space can help achieve an ideal environment, protecting both the home and its occupants.
