5 Reasons to Get Your Crawl Space Cleaned Out Now
Have you noticed an odor coming from your crawl space? Or have your energy costs gone up? These could be signs that your crawl space needs some attention. Just like you clean the rest of your house to maintain a clean and healthy environment, it’s important to keep the crawl space clean as well. A crawl space clean out can ensure that your home is a safe environment while keeping unwanted problems at bay.
Here are 5 reasons why keeping your crawl space clean is so important:
1. Insulation
Insulation is what helps to keep your home a comfortable temperature and energy efficient. If there’s nothing wrong with your heating & cooling system yet your energy costs are rising, it could be a sign that your crawl space insulation needs some TLC.
Sagging and falling insulation occurs from holding moisture or pest activity. Rats, mice, and other pests look for materials to nest in and fiberglass insulation provides the perfect supply. Once the insulation is made their home, it will be filled with waste.
2. Air Quality
Mold, rodents, droppings, and stagnant water all can have a noticeably foul smell. They also affect the air quality in your home and the health of anyone that is sensitive or has an allergy.
3. Infestation
Crawl spaces provide the perfect spot for pests and rodents to invade—especially if the crawl space isn’t monitored and has a moisture related issue.
4. Structural Damage
Fixing anything structurally within the home can be expensive. This means that every precaution should be taken when it comes to the structural integrity of your home.
The number one crawl space enemy is moisture. It can enter the crawl space through various points: plumbing leaks, uncovered soil, foundation vents, and foundation walls. Excess moisture can result in rotting structural wood—a costly problem to fix. This can cause settling, leaning, and other structural failures. It can also cause the floors above to sag because of the weight no longer being properly supported.
Termites are also extremely destructive within the crawl space. Damage caused by termites can happen quickly and cause more destruction than any other pest. They are also difficult to find unless they are swarming or you’re specifically searching for them.
With regular crawl space cleaning and maintenance, you can help prevent unwanted moisture from entering and making the perfect environment for these pests.
5. Mold
Mold is a potential health hazard that negatively affects your home’s indoor air quality. People with allergies or sensitivities to mold or respiratory issues can experience congestion, wheezing, red or itchy eyes and skin, and rashes from mold spore exposure.
What are the signs of mold?
A musty, damp smell is the biggest red flag when it comes to mold growth. If you can see the mold, that’s an indication that the growth is already extensive and should be treated immediately by a professional.
How often should I have my crawl space cleaned?
Don’t forget about your crawl space during your next spring cleaning. The added rain that comes with spring time can make its way into your home and crawl space if you let it. Make sure to check for any leaks, musty odors, and dampness.
It’s also a good time to check out the crawl space right before winter or when the temperature starts to drop. This is typically the time when pests and rodents are looking for somewhere warm to stay during the cold winter months.
All in all, it’s best to check out your crawl space a minimum of once every (6) months or if there’s been bad weather. Lastly, take note of the surroundings to see if there are any changes between these visits to the crawl space.
Call the professionals
Even though your crawl space is not a high traffic area, it’s important to not neglect it. Regular crawl space cleaning & maintenance can help you avoid problems that may cost you down the line.
If you are in need of crawl space repair or have any questions, fill out the form or click the button below to speak with a Jersey Shore Crawlspace representative!