Crawl space construction is ideal for access to run cable, electric, and similar lines. Unfortunately, those crawl spaces can also be vulnerable to moisture, pest infestations, and other hazards. If you're looking to protect your home, you may want to consider installing a crawl space vapor barrier.
Here's a look at some of the things that you should know about what makes a vapor barrier a great investment.
Reduces The Risk Of Mold And Musty Smells
One of the best reasons to consider investing in a vapor barrier for your crawl space is because it helps reduce the risk of mold growth and the subsequent musty odor. Vapor barriers eliminate the risk of moisture accumulation in the crawl space, which is the leading cause of mold growth. If you want to protect your home and your family from mold exposure, a crawl space vapor barrier is a great way to start.
Protects Your Plumbing System
One of the things that many homeowners don't think about is the risk of corrosion and bursting pipes from moisture exposure. When your crawl space gets damp, the prolonged exposure to persistent moisture can actually cause your plumbing system to corrode, which will lead to burst pipes. Adding a vapor barrier minimizes the moisture in your crawl space, prolonging the lifespan of your pipes and reducing the risk of moisture-induced damage.
Regulates Home Energy Costs
Your climate control costs can end up being significantly higher when you don't address crawl space issues. Moisture in the crawl space can draw heat from your home, making the whole space harder to regulate in temperature. When you install a vapor barrier, you create an environment where the temperatures are more consistent because moisture is held at bay. This reduces the demand on your home's climate control system, saving you money in your energy costs over time.
Minimizes Pest Infestation Risk
Crawl spaces are a prime area for pest infestations to begin because of the available water and easy access to shelter. If you're considering a vapor barrier but aren't sure if it's worth it, consider the fact that a crawl space vapor barrier helps to keep pests out as well. Not only does it make it harder for pests to get access to your crawl space, but a vapor barrier also reduces some of the elements that make your crawl space attractive, so you'll be protecting your home from pest infestation on multiple fronts.
These are just a few of the things that make crawl space vapor barriers a good investment. Check with a contractor near you for more details on crawl space vapor barrier installation.