Is Crawl Space Encapsulation Worth It?

Good question! There are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to home improvement, and one option that you might be wondering about is crawl space encapsulation. So, is crawl space encapsulation worth it?
​
The answer to that question depends on a few different things. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the key considerations so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not crawl space encapsulation is right for your home.

How Is Crawl Space Encapsulation Different From Insulation?

One of the first things to understand about crawl space encapsulation is its difference from insulation. Insulation is designed to keep heat in (or out) your home, while crawl space encapsulation creates a moisture barrier.

​This means that if you're mostly concerned about energy efficiency, insulation might be a better option for you. However, encapsulation can be a much more effective solution if you're dealing with moisture issues in your crawl space.

Is Crawl Space Encapsulation Worth It?

Let's take a look at some of the key considerations that will help you decide whether or not crawl space encapsulation is worth it for your home.

Less Pests and Mold

Running out of storage space is one thing, but dealing with pests and mold is another issue. Unfortunately, these are both common problems in crawl spaces.
​
Crawl space encapsulation can help mitigate these issues by creating a moisture barrier. This will make your crawl space less hospitable for pests and mold and help keep your home clean and healthy overall.

Easier to Clean and Maintain

Another consideration is that crawl space encapsulation can make your crawl space easier to clean and maintain. This is because you won't have to worry about moisture getting in and causing problems.

​As a result, you'll be able to more easily keep your crawl space clean, saving you time and money in the long run.

Improved Air Quality

In addition, crawl space encapsulation can improve indoor air quality. This is because it will help prevent mold and other allergens from getting into your living space.
​
If you or someone in your family suffers from allergies, this can be a major consideration. Improving the crawl space air quality in your home can significantly impact your overall health and well-being.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Another consideration is energy efficiency. If you're not dealing with moisture issues in your crawl space, insulation might be a better option for you. However, encapsulation can improve your home's energy efficiency if you are dealing with moisture issues.
​
This is because moisture can cause problems with your insulation, making it less effective at doing its job. With encapsulated crawl space, you can help to prevent these issues and improve your home's energy efficiency.

Boost Your Property Value 

Who doesn't love a good return on investment? If you're thinking about selling your home at some point in the future, crawl space encapsulation can actually help to boost your property value.
​
This is because potential buyers will see it as a valuable feature, and it can even help make your home more marketable.

What To Avoid When Encapsulating Your Crawl Space

Now that you know some of the key considerations for crawl space encapsulation system let's take a look at some of the things you'll want to avoid.

Don't Use Cheap Materials

It's important to use high-quality materials when it comes to crawl space encapsulation. This is not the time to cut corners or skimp on quality.
​
You'll likely end up with a subpar moisture barrier that will eventually fail if you do. This can lead to serious problems down the road, so it's important to use high-quality materials. It's better to use vapor barrier if you are on budget.

Don't Do It Yourself

Another mistake to avoid is trying to do it yourself. This is a job that is best left to the professionals, as they have the experience and expertise to get the job done correctly.
Not to mention, if you make a mistake, it could end up costing you more money in the long run.

​Crawl space encapsulation cost will vary depending on the size of your home, but it's generally a good investment.

Don't Forget About Ventilation

Last but not least, don't forget about ventilation. Just because you're encapsulating your crawl space doesn't mean you shouldn't ventilate it.
​
In fact, ventilation is still important to prevent moisture and mold problems. Make sure to talk to a professional about the best way to ventilate your crawl space before starting the encapsulation process.

So, Is Crawl Space Encapsulation Really Worth It?

As you can see, there are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to having crawl space encapsulated. Ultimately, whether or not it's worth it for your home will come down to your specific needs and situation. Crawl space encapsulation costs you money upfront, but it can save you money in the long run by preventing serious moisture and mold problems.
​
If you're dealing with pests, mold, or moisture issues in your crawl space, encapsulation can be a great way to address these problems. Additionally, if you're looking for ways to improve your home's energy efficiency or boost your property value, encapsulation can also be a good option. Call our crawl space encapsulation pros to get a free quote.

Author

David is the lead content editor at RVA Paving Pros, a service for Richmond VA residents. In his spare time, David likes to travel, read about business and visit the finest italian restaurants in town!