Most people rarely—if ever—think about the condition of their crawlspace. It is out of sight and, therefore, usually out of mind. However, air from below your house tends to enter the home and carry any contaminants from the crawlspace into your living quarters. It is therefore important to keep this forgotten area as free of mold, moisture, bacteria, and other contaminants as possible. That's why waterproofing your crawlspace is essential. Below you'll learn what crawlspace waterproofing involves and why it is so beneficial.

What Is Crawlspace Waterproofing Entail?

Since concrete is porous, moisture is able to enter the crawlspace through the foundation blocks. There it can puddle, attract pests, and encourage mold, algae, and bacteria growth. Crawlspace waterproofing involves encapsulating the area—walls, floor, and sometimes even the ceiling—with a thick, polyethylene vapor barrier. Water entry points must be identified and filled, and areas around ducts and vents must be sealed with caulk or expanding foam. In many instances, waterproofing contractors also install a dehumidifier as a secondary line of defense. Together, these efforts keep the area under your home clean, dry, and free of contaminants.

Benefits of Crawlspace Waterproofing

Excessive moisture from the crawlspace can result in a number of problems in the home, including sweating windows, mold spores—and the resultant health issues—and insect infestations. Moreover, dampness can cause your home's structural wood to decay and the floors to sag.  Lastly, excess humidity causes your air conditioner to work harder than necessary, causing undue wear and tear on the system and increasing your utility bills. Crawlspace waterproofing eliminates these issues and generally helps your home stay more comfortable.

Crawlspace waterproofing is an effective and affordable way to keep moisture and mold spores out of your home and improve indoor air quality. To discuss your needs, contact Master Waterproofing in Elizabethtown, KY. They've been serving Hardin County for nearly 30 years and also specialize in moisture control for your foundation and basement.  Visit their website to request a free estimate or call (270) 769-3434 to speak to a friendly, helpful professional.