4 Things NOT to Do for Crawl Space Waterproofing

It’s common for homeowners to have issues with their crawl spaces.

While it’s tempting to take a DIY route, these attempts might only exacerbate the issue.

Below are four common DIY mistakes for fixing a crawl space issue under your home.

Common Crawl Space Mistakes

1. Installing Fiberglass Insulation

Many homeowners believe that adding extra fiberglass insulation between the exposed joists in a crawl space will enhance insulation.

However, this approach can backfire as fiberglass tends to absorb moisture. Moisture not only diminishes the insulation’s effectiveness but also creates a prime breeding ground for mold and mildew. Over time, this can lead to air quality issues and structural damage within the crawl space.

2. Using a Vapor Barrier on Floor Joists

Applying a vapor barrier directly to floor joists is another well-intentioned but misguided practice. While the purpose of a vapor barrier is to block moisture, stapling it to the underside of floor joists can inadvertently trap moisture between the wood and the barrier itself— leading to mold and wood rot.

3. Improperly Using Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in water management. But, if downspouts do not extend far enough away from the house, or if the surrounding land slopes towards the foundation, water can accumulate around foundation walls. This pooling can lead to water infiltration into the crawl space, promoting conditions favorable for mold growth and wood rot.

4. Venting Appliances into Crawl Spaces

Venting appliances like dryers into a crawl space may seem like a good idea to increase airflow. However, introducing moist air from a dryer can escalate humidity levels quickly. This high-moisture environment is ideal for mold development and can accelerate wood decay. Proper venting should direct moisture-laden air outside the home, not into semi-enclosed spaces like crawl spaces.

Why Hiring a Professional for Crawl Space Repair is the Smart Choice

Hiring a professional to repair your crawl space is the most effective and hassle-free way to ensure the job is done right.

When you choose a professional service like Dry Pro, you avoid the discomfort and potential hazards of navigating a cramped, dirty crawl space yourself.

There’s also no need to invest in specialized tools that you may never use again. The experts at Dry Pro come equipped with high-quality products that have been tested and proven effective in thousands of homes.

Our solutions are backed by long-term warranties, giving you added peace of mind. Opting for professional crawl space repair means the work will be completed efficiently and correctly on the first try, saving you time, effort, and potential future costs.

What To Expect From Dry Pro

When addressing crawl space issues, the professionals at Dry Pro begin with a detailed inspection to pinpoint the root cause and develop a strategic approach to repair.

This detailed evaluation allows the inspector to tailor a solution that may include a range of interventions, such as encapsulation, which often involves installing a vapor barrier, sump pump, and interior drainage systems. Depending on the severity of the damage, a dehumidifier, and structural supports might also be recommended to ensure your crawl space is not only stabilized but also protected from future moisture-related issues.

This methodical and customized approach ensures that each foundation repair addresses the specific needs of the property for lasting effectiveness.

Schedule a free inspection today.

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Leah Leitow

Content Writer

Leah is a Content Writer for Groundworks with nearly ten years of experience working in the foundation repair industry. Her experience ranges from working with homeowners to find the right solution to training inspectors and staff. In her background as a Michigan journalist, she gained invaluable insight into people's lives throughout our state. Leah lives in metro Detroit with her husband and two sons.