How to Prevent Crawl Space Moisture: 7 Essential Tips for a Dry Home

Moisture in Your Crawl Space?

Moisture in the crawl space is very common in Kansas City, where it's humid all year round due to snow, rain, or ice. But it should be at the control level. 

According to experts, around 50% to 70% moisture levels are safe for crawl spaces, and more than that pose a risk to the building's structures. So, homeowners here often have questions about how to prevent crawl space moisture.

You can install a dehumidifying system paired with a vapor barrier or simply install a sump pump to pump out excess water. Regularly cleaning gutters can also help with this issue. Read the rest to learn many more effective processes.

7 Essential Tips To Keep Your Crawl Space Dry 

We have outlined the 7 essential tips for a dry home below.

1. Inspect for Any Damage & Fix the Small Holes 

Before you begin, it is wise to inspect your crawl space for damage or degradation. Inspect the complete crawl for any active leaks, holes, or cracks in the foundation walls. Pay special attention to the perimeter of the space or the plumbing pipes. 

Crawl spaces are particularly susceptible to pests like rodents, which crawl through them. Also, check the ductwork for any damage. Remember, a minor fix can prevent you from more significant issues. 

For small holes, you can squeeze caulk into the hole using the nozzle. If the hole is larger or you are dealing with a leaky pipe, consider hiring a plumber. But before that, remove any dust, dirt, or debris to help repair the work better.

2. Clear Your Gutter

A clogged gutter is one of the common factors in water accumulating around your home's foundation. A clogged gutter prevents rainwater from flowing through them as it should. Instead, it builds into a high-pressure flood and hammers into your crawl space. 

It also significantly impacts your home's health and value, so you should find fast solutions for it. Inspect your gutter for any clogs, such as leaves, branches, and grit from the shingles.

You will find small critters building nests. All those make your gutters obsolete. Clean your gutter. For instance, you will require a ladder, gloves, and cleaning material. It is time-consuming, so it is best to leave it to a professional. You can expect around $100 and $250 to clean your gutter through professionals.

3. Seal Crawl Space Vents

Vents are an essential part to remove air and moisture from the crawl space. It allows air to move freely in the crawl space and maintains your indoor air quality. Though it is an effective crawl space element, the problems start when excess warm, humid air passes through it. 

Moreover, Kansas City experiences extreme seasonal variation due to its high humidity. Warm and humid air meets the cool surface of the crawl space and forms condensation. 

For that reason, experts at PierMagic recommend sealing the vents before winter comes. Use airtight covers, foam, or spray foam to seal the vents, ensuring that there are no open gaps. For precise covering, you can choose plastic or aluminum covers to stop air from getting in or out.

4. Install a Submersible Sump Pump

Consider installing a sump pump if you are looking for a low-maintenance dewatering solution to keep your crawl space dry. Most homeowners in Kansas often choose this powerful dewatering equipment as it is affordable and can handle substantial water. 

It will help you pump water in the crawl space into the drain line and protect your home from potential damage. You want the right sump pump to achieve a dry crawl space. 

You will find two options here: 

• Pedestal sump pumps 
• Submersible sump pumps

If your space is too small, consider pedestal sump pumps, as they don't need much space. If you have a deeper sump pit and are experiencing a high water table, a submersible pump is a good fit to remove more water.

5. Consider a Vapor Barrier for Excessive Moisture Prevention

Let us introduce you to some of the most popular moisture barriers that most of you chose in the vapor barrier. It is a thick plastic or foil sheet that slows down ground moisture from entering the house and prevents it from accumulating. 

A vapor barrier installation can be challenging, as you need to crawl on hands and knees in a dark and damp space. Though you can do it yourself, it's better to hire an expert to complete the job professionally. If you're in the Kansas City area, reach out to PierMagic.

6. Use a Dehumidifying System

If you are continually struggling with mold growth and pest infestations, leading to structural damage, in most cases, the root cause is excess moisture. Certainly, you want to install an effective device that can remove excess moisture from the air and restore the damage. Consider the EZ Breathe Ventilation System, which is a solid solution compared to other dehumidifiers, duct work, or cross ventilation solutions.

A dehumidifier is the best suggestion in this case. It is a budget-friendly option for dewatering your crawl space compared to encapsulation. 

They are relatively easy to install but require less upkeep. It would be best if you could couple it with the vapor barrier.

Without a vapor barrier, the dehumidifier will try to dry both the ground and the wood, as the ground is wetter than the wood, thus the wood is never going to dry. A vapor barrier will keep the moisture in the ground, and the dehumidifier can cycle on and off properly.

7. Insulate Your Crawl Space

While a vapor barrier and dehumidifier are great for keeping your crawl space dry, you can even go for more beneficial options. That is insulation. It not only prevents moisture buildup in the space but also keeps the air in the crawl space from affecting the indoor air. This maintains the temperature of your home and saves energy. 

According to the EPA suggestion, a properly insulated crawl space can save you an average of 15% on your energy costs. It also makes their crawl space less attractive to insects and other critters. There are three main types of insulation options you can choose for your crawl space:

• Fiberglass
• Closed Cell Spray Foam
• Foam Board

All three of these options are good, but fiberglass offers robust performance. For budget-conscious homeowners, we suggest closed-cell spray foam and foam boards.

Eliminating under-home moisture is essential if you want to maintain a healthy home. It is easier to do so if you know the right methods. Reducing moisture levels and improving ventilation is the best way to keep the crawl space dry. 

Depending on your space size and as budget-friendly options, you can choose from other options like dehumidifiers or sump pumps. In case you are still unsure what to choose, contact our foundation specialists at PierMagic. Our professionals have years of experience and can guide you to ensure your crawl space is well-maintained.