Congratulations! You've taken the plunge and encapsulated your crawl space. But now that the dust has settled (literally!), you might wonder, "What's next?" Don't worry; we're not going to leave you hanging.
As experts in crawl space encapsulation, we have served the homes of many South Arkansas homeowners for over a decade. During this time, we have done our fair share of inspection and maintenance, and we are here to share with you the behind-the-scenes of this process.
Let's look at how the experts can keep your crawl space dry, clean, and pest-free for years. So, let's dive into the world of encapsulated crawl space maintenance.
What's Included in The Professional Inspection
To start off, skilled technicians will conduct a detailed inspection of your crawl space. They will look for signs of problems before they get worse. Here is a list of things they will focus on:
- The State of the Vapor Barrier: First, they will examine the vapor barrier for any tears, rips, or gaps that could allow moisture to sneak in.
- Moisture Check: The next step is to check for signs of moisture intrusion, such as condensation, water stains, or even standing water. They will also use specialized tools to measure humidity levels and identify any areas where moisture might be accumulating.
- Pest Control: While down there, they will look for any signs of pest activity, such as droppings, nests, or chewed wires. Nobody wants uninvited guests in their crawl space, and these experts know how to spot the signs and recommend solutions to keep those critters out.
- Insulation Investigation: If there is insulation, they will inspect its condition to make sure it's dry and in good condition. Wet or damaged insulation can lose its effectiveness and become a breeding ground for mold.
- Dehumidifier Duty: Any properly encapsulated crawl space needs a dehumidifier. While this machine has a 5-year guarantee, it must be serviced at least twice a year. This means replacing the filter, emptying the water collection tray, and checking the settings.
Addressing Potential Problems
If the inspection reveals any issues, the technician will recommend appropriate solutions. This might involve:
- Vapor Barrier Repair: Patching any tears or gaps in the vapor barrier to prevent moisture intrusion.
- Moisture Control Measures: Address leaks, improve ventilation, or service or change the dehumidifier to control humidity levels.
- Pest Control: Implementing pest control measures to eliminate existing infestations and prevent future ones.
- Insulation Replacement: Replacing any damaged or ineffective insulation.
- Dehumidifier Maintenance or Repair: Cleaning, servicing, or repairing your dehumidifier to ensure optimal performance.
Maximizing Your Encapsulation Investment
While regular inspections and basic maintenance are crucial, there's even more you can do to protect your crawl space and maximize the benefits of encapsulation. Here are a few "upgrades" to consider for your crawl space:
- Sump Pump and French Drains: If your crawl space is prone to water intrusion (even after being encapsulated), installing a sump pump and french drains can be what you need. The french drains redirect the water to a sump pump in a pit. This machine automatically pumps out any water that accumulates, preventing flooding and protecting your home from moisture damage.
- Insulation Upgrade: This improvement is recommended for areas with longer and harsher winters. Adding or upgrading insulation can improve your home's energy efficiency, keeping it warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. We recommend contacting professional insulation services to see if they are the right fit for you.
- Radon Mitigation System: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can be concentrated in some areas. If you find high radon levels, we suggest upgrading your crawl space with a mitigation system. This consists of a fan that pulls air from the soil and vents it outdoors through a pipe above the roof's edge.
Investing in these "extras" can enhance the benefits of your crawl space encapsulation, protect your home from potential problems, and provide long-term peace of mind.
Preventative Care of Your Crawl Space
Professional crawl space maintenance isn't just about fixing problems; it's also about preventing them in the first place. The technician will provide recommendations for ongoing care, such as:
- Regular Inspections: Schedule regular inspections to catch potential problems early on. At Restore-It, we recommend at least two annual inspections to ensure everything works correctly.
- Cleaning and Decluttering: Keeping your crawl space clean and organized to prevent pest infestations and make inspections easier.
- Moisture Control Tips: Providing advice on controlling moisture levels in your crawl space, such as maintaining gutters and downspouts, ensuring proper grading, and using a dehumidifier.
The Benefits of Professional Crawl Space Maintenance
Investing in professional crawl space maintenance offers a range of benefits:
- Save Time and Hassle: Crawling down there and inspecting and servicing the dehumidifier can be difficult and take a lot of time. Not only that, but the limited mobility can be dangerous if you do this alone.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your crawl space is regularly inspected and maintained by experts gives you peace of mind that your home is protected.
- Identify Hidden Problems: Regular inspections can catch problems early on, preventing them from becoming major issues and saving money on costly repairs.
- Improved Health: A clean, dry crawl space contributes to a healthier home environment, reducing allergens, mold spores, and other pollutants affecting your family's health.
- Extended Lifespan of Your Encapsulation System: Proper maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your encapsulation system, protecting your investment and ensuring long-term benefits.
A Happy Crawl Space, a Happy Home
Maintaining your encapsulated crawl space doesn't have to be a chore. By letting the professionals take care of it, you can enjoy long-term benefits without breaking a sweat! At Restore-It, we're not just experts in crawl space encapsulation but also your partners in maintaining a healthy and protected home. Contact us today to schedule your maintenance visit and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your crawl space is in good hands.
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