Your Local Crawl Space Repair Experts
Moisture can enter a house in various ways. Poor roofing, broken gutters and foundation issues are the main reasons behind this infiltration. However, crawl space vents can act as another gateway for moisture entry and pose a detrimental risk for mold growth and pest infestation.
The Crack Guys offers dependable crawl space and basement foundation services to keep your home durable and protected! Read this guide on when to open or close crawl space vents to reduce your home’s risk of moisture damage.
What Happens If A Crawl Space Isn’t Vented?
Most homes have vents within their crawl spaces. While venting can help with air passage and gas transfer, keeping them closed is generally best. However, there are a few cases where opening the vents can be beneficial.
Without vents, your space could be vulnerable to the following issues:
- Moisture buildup
- Wood rot and structural damage
- Local building code violations
- Poor indoor air quality
- Mold and mildew growth
- Energy losses
The Crack Guys provides efficient guidance for keeping this area well-ventilated. We specialize in structural services that safeguard your property, preventing long-standing damage and inefficiencies.
When To Leave Crawl Space Vents Open
The best time to open your vents is during periods of warm weather, such as the summer months. Opening the crawl space vents allows outside air to circulate under the floor. Proper air ventilation prevents moisture buildup, which reduces the risk of mold and mildew developing within the area.
However, once moisture permeates the space, open ventilation often carries airborne mold particles. When these impurities are introduced, they can spread throughout the home. This point brings us to the necessity of closing your vents.
When To Close Crawl Space Vents
If summer is the right time to open your crawl space vents, winter is the perfect time to close them. Colder weather results in drier air. Dry air and freezing temperatures are the biggest risks for these low spaces due to the likelihood of freezing pipes.
Burst pipes result in some of the most costly, damaging water issues in any basement, crawlspace or ground-floor home. Therefore, the best way to prevent a burst pipe is to close the vents as the outdoor temperature drops.
Protect Your Home With Crawl Space Services
When thinking about when you should open or close your vents, you should keep a few considerations in mind. The Crack Guys offers encapsulation and waterproofing services and to ensure the lower level of your home remains protected each year.
Encapsulation is an efficient way to combat moisture issues. Encapsulation involves protecting the interior with durable plastic wrapping to prevent excess moisture and humidity. New vent covers, a sump pump, a vapor barrier and a dehumidifier can further remove moisture from the space. They also aid in preventing pest infiltration and weather damage.
Trust The Crack Guys For Crawl Space Encapsulation
If you’re in need of home repair services in Alabama, look no further — The Crack Guys are here to help! We specialize in foundation repair, including waterproofing and encapsulation. We have the tools, knowledge, and experience to protect your home all year long. Contact us immediately if you suspect moisture or mold growth in the lower level of your home.
