Condensation on Pipe.
Before we even conducted my initial inspection, we advised the customer that adding more vents is NOT the answer. With a confused look, the client allowed me to explain myself in more detail. There is a common misconception that crawl spaces need venting in order to expel the hot, humid air. In fact, vented crawl spaces do the exact opposite. Building scientists now understand the stack effect in homes where rising warm air leaks out near the top of the house that, in turn, causes hot humid outside air to be drawn in around the foundation to the crawl space. In short, vented crawl spaces actually exacerbate humidity problems -- crawl space vents allow huge volumes of outside, unconditioned humid air to enter the crawl space area. Over time, this causes condensation problems and, ultimately, mold growth. We explained to the homeowner that the proper solution to reduce crawl space humidity levels is encapsulation, which, in part, entails sealing the existing vents as well as installing an effective dehumidification system.
High Humidity
Getting a hydrometer will help see how humid the area is.
Water Dripping on Outlets.
This crawl space was so humid, condensation was everywhere.
Mold on Wood Beams
We treated the area with an EPA registered antimicrobial called MAPS 1, which attacks mold on a cellular level and immediately kills it. Next, we used our mold stain remover and scrubbed away all the mold growth throughout the area.
More Black Mold
Afterward, we applied our patented sealant called MAPS 2. MAPS 2 is a moisture-sensitive application that encapsulates the surface mold is growing on and renders it harmless, inert, and non-allergenic.
MAPS 2 & Dehumidifier
One of the best features of MAPS 2 is that it will reactivate whenever it gets wet to prevent future mold growth. To address the high humidity levels in the crawl space, we installed a Sani-Dry Sedona commercial grade dehumidifier. These dehumidifiers cost less to run than other dehumidifiers, cover over 3000 square feet, are energy efficient, and will properly control the humidity levels in the crawl space.
