One: Crawl Spaces Frequently Furnish Utility Access
The locations, sizes, and purposes of crawl spaces vary from one structure to another. For example, many wood frame residential buildings in this part of North Carolina sit perched on blocks directly above crawl spaces that encompass exposed portions of the ground. Sometimes architects design crawl spaces within basements or interior walls; crawl spaces may even possess unique design features.
Yet despite the variations in appearance and size, most crawl spaces perform an important function in the building. They frequently furnish ready access for repairing utilities, including electrical wiring, heating systems, or water pipes. For instance, an electrician or a plumber might need to access the crawl space in order to undertake some types of repairs more easily. A crawl space frequently fills a functional purpose in a home or business. Property owners benefit by keeping crawl spaces in a clean, dry condition for this reason.
Two: These Sites Easily Fall Into Disrepair Due to Infrequent Use
Another important consideration in requesting crawl space inspection relates to the infrequent use of most crawl spaces by members of the household. Although important, a crawl space typically receives little (or no) regular foot traffic. This portion of a residence often remains in an unfinished, empty condition. Many crawl spaces fall into disuse and disrepair without attracting the property owner’s attention.
For example, in some cases, wildlife attempt to utilize crawl spaces on a seasonal basis in rural and suburban areas. These enclosed sites sometimes offer better protection from the elements (and greater warmth) than outdoor habitats. Squirrels, badgers, raccoons, opossums, or other wild creatures occasionally venture into unsealed crawl spaces and nest there during a portion of the year unless homeowners monitor and restrict crawl space access. Unsealed, infrequently used, crawl spaces readily accumulate considerable dust and debris.
Three: Crawl Spaces Sometimes Permit Moisture to Penetrate Buildings
Particularly in cases in which a crawl space lies directly over ground (not a floor), this site may permit moisture to enter the residence. For example, when wood frame houses sit on blocks above a low-lying crawl space, rainy, wet weather conditions easily allow water to saturate the underlying soil. Dank, moist environments inside the crawl space may eventually permit mold or mildew to invade exposed wooden surfaces in this location.
It usually proves helpful to request a periodic crawl space inspection by a qualified waterproofing company. Taking this step helps ensure wooden surfaces in the crawl space remain in a dry condition. If the inspection reveals the presence of a problem, such as rotting or warping wood, then the homeowner can initiate repair measures promptly.
Four: Significant Repair Problems Sometimes Begin in Crawl Spaces
Finally, it remains important to realize undetected crawl space waterproofing issues may cause significant damage over the course of time. For instance, a homeowner who fails to pay attention to the condition of the home’s crawl spaces for many years may discover extensive water damage has occurred to sub-flooring, or to utility systems accessed through the crawl space. The presence of moisture in a crawl space should concern property owners.
Keeping crawl spaces in good repair usually remains the best option. This effort helps prevent long term damage. Regular crawl space inspections help keep owners apprised about the condition of this infrequently accessed part of a residence.
Protecting Crawl Spaces
For all these reasons, it makes sound financial sense for realty owners to maintain crawl spaces in good repair. Waterproofing helps protect the condition of crawl spaces by reducing water intrusions. (Many people choose encapsulation as one home improvement strategy for protecting these important sites from moisture damage, in fact.)
Further Information about Crawl Space Inspections
Drainage & Waterproofing Solutions, LLC provides skilled waterproofing and crawl space inspection and repair services (and crawl space encapsulation) throughout Greater Raleigh, Southern Pines, Fayetteville, and outlying areas. Contact us now to request an a residential or commercial crawl space inspection. Simply call (919)235-5219 or (919)508-7503. We look forward to speaking with you soon!
Helpful Resources:
1. https://www.drainagenwaterproofing.com/crawl-space-repair-encapsulation/