If the crawl space beneath your home is flooded or damp, it can lead to problems such as warped floorboards, mold growth and insect infestations. That’s why it’s so important to clean up a wet crawl space right away.
Before you attempt to tackle this task, use a high-powered flashlight and look into the crawl space. If you see evidence of a sewage backup, do not enter the crawl space; you’ll need a professional to take care of this toxic and hazardous problem. But if the crawl space is just damp, you should be able to clean it on your own.
Find the source of the water
There’s no point in cleaning up until you figure out where the excess moisture came from. Clogged gutters, or downspouts that discharge water too close to the house can cause water to accumulate in crawl spaces. Leaky pipes and damaged sewer drains may also cause dampness, but sometimes, excess moisture is simply a byproduct of the soil beneath the home and the force of mother nature.
Soils high in clay content are known for causing moisture and humidity in crawl spaces — and the best defense against this problem is often an exterior drainage system that helps prevent intrusive water from entering the crawl space. A drainage system coupled with a floor moisture barrier or full-wrap encapsulation can also create a dry environment. Without encapsulation, a crawl space may always be damp. Finally, adding an air exchange system like a dehumidifier or Olshan’s HumiGo to ventilate air, will help prevent mold growth and keep the air inside your home from feeling humid.
Drying out, cleaning up
Depending on the extent of the problem, you may need to rent an crawl space dehumidifier to dry out your crawl space. Clean up any mold or mildew, and replace any insulation that shows signs of water damage.
Make sure the earth surrounding your home is properly graded to funnel water away from your crawl space. Improper grading can cause moisture to accumulate in the soil and lead to foundation problems. Signs that you may be in need of foundation repair include cracks around windows or doors, uneven floors and doors that are difficult to open and close.
Get in the habit of checking your crawl space regularly for signs of moisture. Catching the problem right away can prevent costly foundation damage.