Open Sump Pits
Open Sump Pits are a huge problem in crawl spaces. Not only do they allow silt and sediment in, clogging the pump and allowing water to back up in your crawl space, but they allow odors and vapor to rise into the air ultimately contributing to moisture problems in the crawl space. Open sump pits humidify a space that needs to be dehumidified.
Bulk Water Infiltration
Bulk water can enter through or around crawl space walls and from the ground. Water lines on the foundation walls and erosion in the soil from water movement indicate an issue with bulk water in the crawl space. Groundwater and bulk water infiltration are addressed with an interior foundation drainage system and sump pump.
6 Mil Vapor Barrier
6 Mil vapor barriers are installed at new construction. The purpose of a vapor barrier is to stop the water vapor from the earth from rising into the crawl space. 6 mil barriers don't achieve this. When installed, the barrier is laid on the ground and staked in place with U shaped pins, creating holes in the barrier. This material is about as thick as a trash bag and the surface is slick. This makes it too flimsy to withstand service persons crawling on it and the seams cannot be sealed. Therefore, it does not prevent water vapor from the ground from rising into the crawl space and isn't protecting the environment from moisture, instead, it's adding to the problem.
Microbial Growth on Floor Joists
High relative humidity and warm temperatures result in mold and mildew growth on organic surfaces. The wood substructure of the home is a food source for microbial growth. This impacts the indoor air quality of your home, as about 50% of the air in your conditioned space is from the crawl space. Mold and Mildew can be treated with an Antimicrobial, however, it will continue to return unless the relative humidity is controlled. In the home, a homeowner may notice musty odors or high humidity.
Falling Insulation
Like many crawl spaces we have been in, this one has no insulation in many places, and in other, the insulation is damaged and falling. Fiberglass Insulation absorbs moisture like a sponge. As it takes on moisture it becomes heavier and the moisture damages the fibers of the material causing them to separate. The insulation pulls away from the floor joists and falls to the ground. In the home, the homeowner might notice that their floors are freezing in the winter.
Crawl Space Doors
Crawl Space Doors are an often-overlooked detail of the crawl space. They are not airtight, allowing humid air to pour into the crawl space through a large hole. They are often damaged or deteriorating due to being exposed to the elements and can even be a source of bulk water entry, especially during heavy rains.
