Mold in your crawlspace
Crawl Space and mold problems associated with them:
Crawl spaces where the relative humidity (RH) is high or have experienced a water leak are common sites of hidden mold growth, mainly if the crawl space has a bare soil floor. Dirt wicks moisture into the air and the moist air causes mold growth. What is more, in localities where the water table is high, and climate conditions are apt, groundwater goes into the crawl space.
The moisture that builds up in a crawl space may go in another part of your home and assist in mold growth there. Moisture and humidity can pass from a crawl space into a building through cracks in structures, floors, and ceilings.
Crawl spaces should be engineered to avoid moisture problems. Many are not though. That is why it is a good idea to consult with American Restoration Service to have your issues corrected.
Indication of Crawlspace mold damage
- A musty odor permeates all through the structure during the spring and summer (This is often the case here in Northern Virginia and Washington DC as the humidity reaches over 70% regularly)
- Begin suffering from increased allergies and asthma
- You have chronic headaches.
- Multiple and recurring pipe breaks
- Warped or buckling wood flooring
Many crawl spaces are constructed with foundation vents that are conceived to help keep moisture problems in ascertain. Although, research shows such vents may indeed permit more moisture than they impede. Customary vented crawlspaces have one vent for every 150 rectangle feet and one vent from each corner of the crawlspace. Some furthermore natural follower systems to draw added moist air into the crawlspace.
Vented crawlspaces: Can bring about hospitable natural environments for mold to augment. During humid or rainy climate months, a vented crawlspace can become moist with moisture. This moderately hot humidity encourages mold development on timber, HVAC ducts, and other organic material in the crawlspace.
The benefits of sealed crawl spaces:
Over the past few years, closed crawlspace schemes are implemented to help control moisture and mold. This process works by surrounding the crawlspace with a moisture barrier and installing liners up piers and partitions, therefore sealing vents from the outdoor air.
In supplement to impeding moisture, closed crawlspaces can help the natural environment by decreasing the heating system and cooling accounts for dwelling and enterprise owners. Regular inspections, moisture control inside crawlspaces, and a closed crawl space system can offer protection from this crawl space mold development.
If you suspect your home or property might suffer from excess moisture and crawl space mold development in its crawlspace, call American Restoration Service Inc. This type of specialized work requires the right expertise and gear, established methods, and taught service professionals to correctly complete. Call American Restoration today for more information.