Should I Close My Crawl Space in the Winter?
There’s a common misconception that you only need to worry about protecting your crawl space during the summer when humidity and moisture levels are higher. However, this is not the case.
In the winter, cold air entering the area through open vents can cause problems like freezing or even bursting crawl space pipes. You might think, “If I close the vents, it should keep the cold air out, right?” Unfortunately, closing the vents doesn’t prevent cold air from entering the crawlspace.
This page answers the question, “Should I close my crawl space vents?”
How to Seal a Crawl Space from Cold Weather
What crawl space measures should you take during the winter? Below, we list ways to protect your crawl space permanently year-round.
1. Vent Cover Installation
Crawl space vents should be sealed or covered to prevent moisture infiltration and temperature fluctuations. This approach enhances home energy efficiency and is one vital aspect of the encapsulation process.
2. Crawl Space Vapor Barrier
Proper crawl space sealing requires vapor barrier installation. Our robust CrawlSeal™ barrier lines the crawl space floor and prevents moisture seepage by forming an airtight, waterproof bond. Since moisture leads to mold growth, wood rot, and related issues, vapor barriers are crucial in encapsulation.
3. Crawl Space Insulation
Crawl space insulation maintains consistent indoor floor and room temperatures. Insulation should be dry, pest-free, and made of proper material. Fiberglass insulation is not recommended for crawl spaces, as it harbors moisture and pests, causing many issues. Our waterproof thermal foam board insulation panels provide superior temperature regulation and crawl space protection.
Contact Dry Pro for a Free Crawl Space Inspection
Is your crawl space ready for the cold winter months? Contact Dry Pro Foundation and Crawlspace Specialists for a free inspection. Our experts create a tailored solution that works best for your home and your budget.
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Crawl Space FAQs
Crawl space vents were initially installed into properties across North Carolina between the 1950s and 1990s because they were thought to reduce the risk of dampness and humidity by increasing airflow. Of course, they were found to increase airflow in the home, but this turned out to be a bad thing upon further investigation. Studies found that crawl space vents were actually likely to cause dampness and increase humidity levels. As such, it became common practice to cover them.
Of course, there is not much that simply covering your crawl space vents will do if they have been open for a long period of time. If you simply cover the vents, then you could potentially trap moisture or pests into your Charlotte home. However, with that said, it is definitely a good idea to invest in water and weather-proof crawl space vent covers as a part of more widespread waterproofing and encapsulation methods.
The benefits of crawl space vent covers are many, however. As well as making it more difficult for pests and water to enter your home, they also can play a part in managing the more subtle aspects of moisture management. By stopping the stack effect from impacting your home, crawl space vent covers will also prevent condensation and have an impact on levels of relative humidity in your crawl space and wider property.
Costs depend on crawl space size and condition, and the repairs needed. Choosing Dry Pro Foundation & Crawl Space Repair ensures value for money and lasting results. We offer transparent pricing and financing options. Contact us for more information.
DIY covering is possible, but for a thorough solution, professional services like those offered by Dry Pro Foundation & Crawl Space Repair are recommended. Our process involves complete waterproofing and encapsulation, not just vent sealing. Contact us for a free inspection.
Shaye Glisson
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