How do I close the crawl space under my house?

Here are 7 must-dos to properly close a crawl space:

Table of Contents

1 Be safe. Enclosing any space means being careful about what may be trapped inside.
2 Mind the gap.
3 Keep them separated.
4 Insulate where required.
5 Keep humidity under control.
6 Be ready for flooding.
7 Shop around.

Is encapsulating a crawl space a good idea?

Avoids Structural Damage Moisture in your crawl space will only lead to structural damage over time. The vapor within the crawl space can rot your home’s wooden frames and flooring. Encapsulating the crawl space keeps away moisture. In addition, encapsulation helps keep dangerous pests like termites out.

Can I close off my crawl space?

Before you seal your crawl space permanently or just close it for the winter, it is a good idea to utilize a dehumidifier and remove the excess moisture in the air. This dehumidifier will create an ideal environment so that you can seal it with the vapor barrier and seal up your crawl space.

Is it OK to cover crawl space vents?

Even if you aren’t planning on using your crawl space for storage, consider installing crawl space vent covers along with sealing and insulating your crawl space to create warmer floors, prevent frozen pipes, and manage your heating costs.

Should crawl space be vented?

Building codes generally require working vents in the crawlspace to allow outside air to circulate under the floor in the summer to prevent moisture buildup that, among mildew and mold, encourages wood rot.

Should a crawl space be sealed or vented?

Because much of the air you breathe in your home comes directly from your crawl space, most contractors today agree that the crawl space should be treated as part of your living area—in other words, it should be sealed, insulated and kept free of moisture.

What are the cons of encapsulating a crawl space?

Cons of Crawl Space Encapsulation

Upfront Investment. According to Home Advisor, the average homeowner can expect to pay $5,500 to install this system.
Cost of Foundation Wall Insulation.
Additional Maintenance.
Might Need To Upgrade Your HVAC System.

Should crawl space vents be closed in the winter?

When temperatures drop below the freezing point, water pipes in the crawl space are bound to freeze if the vents remain open. It’s a good practice to close off the vents in winter. Doing so prevents the dry, cold winter air from freezing the pipes inside the crawl space.

Should I enclose my crawl space?

Yes, you should. All crawl spaces should be completely sealed and isolated from moisture in the air and from the ground.

Should you open vents in crawl space?

Your crawl space vents should always be closed and sealed off from the outside elements. Venting your crawl space leads to a variety of issues. First and foremost, open vents allow moisture to enter your crawl space. This creates the perfect environment for mold growth and mildew.