How to Neutralize Crawl Space Odors
Have you noticed any musty smells or foul odors coming from your crawl space? The first step to fixing the smell problem is to figure out the source. When looking for the source of foul crawl space odors, start with these common causes:
Five Common Causes of Crawl Space Odors
- Mold and mildew. Not all types of mold produce a foul odor, but they can cause wood rot which can create a nasty mildew like smell. If you find visible mold in the crawl space, take caution and immediately call a professional. Molds release mycotoxins which are harmful to the human respiratory system and these can spread throughout the air in your home beyond the crawl space, so it’s important to treat any visible mold growth ASAP.
- High humidity. The presence of moisture causes excessive humidity, which is a typical concern in unsealed crawl spaces. Bacteria can grow and generate foul odors where concrete slabs have been laid.
- Pests and rodents. Pests and rodents are attracted to crawl spaces with moisture issues because it provides them with shelter and water. These unwanted vermin use the crawl space to nest, feed, leave behind excrement, and even die in.
- Debris. Sometimes previous owners or builders leave behind items in the crawl space such as extra building materials, garbage, debris, etc. These items could be the source of crawl space odors, especially if there are any organic materials left behind like wood.
- The soil underneath your house. If you have an unsealed crawl space with exposed soil as the flooring, dirt could be the source of the foul odors. Over time, the organic elements that make up soil disintegrate, and the natural decay process always produces aromas. Moisture in the soil will spread upward and cause your crawl space to become damp, which continues the cycle of the problem.
What’s the Solution?
Now that you’ve figured out where the smell is coming from, you can figure out how to get rid of it. It may be as easy as removing debris, such as old construction materials, from the crawl space. If there has been pest or rodent activity, it could be left over excrement from their visit or their remains. In this case, we recommend reaching out to a professional pest control company to properly handle the waste. If you suspect mold or mildew growth, a professional mold removal company needs to inspect the crawl space to correctly treat the problem and its source to ensure that it won’t return.
Dehumidifiers
Crawl space dehumidifiers work to control the level of humidity indoors. The optimal relative humidity level within a home is between 30% and 50%. Anything above this range can result in mold or bacteria growth. In turn, this can lead to foul odors and musty smells. Other than smell, signs that your crawl space needs a dehumidifier include damp walls, visible signs of mold growth, and condensation on surfaces.
Vapor Barriers
Crawl space vapor barriers create a layer of protection against moisture evaporating into the crawl space air. In addition to other waterproofing measures, a vapor barrier works to stop moisture in its tracks before it can enter the crawl space and wreak havoc. This includes all moisture-related problems such as mold and mildew growth, musty smells and foul odors, high humidity, pest and rodent activity, rot, rust, and more.
The purpose of a crawl space foundation vapor barrier is to keep air out. It turns your crawl space into a semi-conditioned space by bringing the temperature closer to the living spaces in your home above the crawl space by limiting air circulation. In the winter, your floors will feel warmer if the temperature in your crawl space foundation is similar to the temperature in your living spaces.
Dehumidifiers and vapor barriers often work in conjunction with one another to encapsulate a crawl space. Crawl space encapsulation is widely regarded as the best way to protect your crawl space from foul odors and moisture.
Crawl Space Services by Jersey Shore Crawlspace Enhancement
For over 20 years, we have specialized in the evaluation, installation, and monitoring of thousands of homes here on the Jersey Shore. Our moisture combatting systems are designed using components that have been hand picked by our highly trained staff in combating moisture issues, improving indoor air quality, and protecting families and their homes for decades.
If your home is experiencing musty smells and foul odors, it’s time for a comprehensive crawl space evaluation. Click the button below to speak to a representative or complete the form at the bottom of this page and one will be in touch with you.