Crawl Space Mold & Mildew - What Causes It & Why It Is a Problem

Crawl space moisture is one of the biggest issues for many homes in Oklahoma. While the water itself is bad, some of the things the moisture causes can be worse. This includes mold and mildew in your crawl space.

Some, although not all, crawl spaces are at least partially sub-grade (below ground). Also the crawl space floor is, typically, the soil beneath the home. Because of this, it is susceptible to moisture problems, such as water leakage through cracks in the walls, or groundwater seeping through the floor.

Wet Crawl Spaces are Breeding Grounds for Mold & Mildew

When you think of where mold grows, you probably think of dark, damp places. That describes a crawl space with moisture problems perfectly. If you have a wet or damp crawlspace, there is a great chance that mold and mildew may start to grow in your home.

And if mold begins to grow, its spores will not simply stay in your crawl space. Inevitably they will find their way into the air in your home. When there, they can cause some respiratory conditions or exasperate existing ones.

How to Prevent Crawl Space Mold

When trying to prevent the growth of mold or mildew, there are a few different things to watch for in your crawl space. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it may be a sign that your crawl space has a moisture problem, which can lead to mold and mildew growth:

• Damp walls
• High humidity
• Musty odors
• Wet or damp insulation
• Wood rot or metal rust
• Water stains
• Condensation on ductwork

It is a good idea to regularly examine your crawl space to look for the signs of a moisture problem. Once a problem is discovered, a professional should be contacted immediately to take a closer look and come up with a fitting solution.

Crawl Space Encapsulation Can Solve Water Problems

One way to keep a crawl space dry is through crawl space encapsulation. This generally consists of installation of a vapor barrier on the walls, floor, and any piers. Other means are also taken to seal off the crawl space to prevent moisture from getting in.

For crawl spaces with more significant flooding issues, other waterproofing measures might also need to be taken

Want to Prevent Crawl Space Mold in Your Muskogee, OK, Area Home? Contact Us Today

To prevent the growth of mold and mildew in your crawlspace, it is important to make sure that your home is well protected from water problems. If you live in Oklahoma and are looking to prevent mold and mildew from infiltrating your crawl space, contact Pierman Foundation Repair Services today.