Crawl Space Humidity

In Oakland, Sacramento, and San Jose, humidity in crawl spaces is a common issue that causes both structural and health problems.

Understanding why crawl space humidity happens is the first step in preventing it. This guide details the causes of and solutions for crawl space humidity, providing you with expert knowledge.

What is Crawl Space Humidity?

Crawl space humidity is excessive air moisture (above 60%) found below your home. The crawl space is naturally prone to dampness, and humidity can lead to the following issues:

Actively managing these problems is crucial for maintaining the structural health of your home and ensuring a safe living environment.

What Causes Crawl Space Humidity?

If water gets into your crawl space, humidity is going to follow. In Northern California, crawl space water and humidity stems from various sources:

Humid Weather: If it is unusually humid on a summer day, the crawl space can become humid as a result.
Water Intrusion: Rain, leaks, and groundwater seepage increase crawl space moisture.
Soil Moisture: The naturally damp soil in this region adds to air moisture levels.
Unsealed Vents: Open crawl space vents let humid outdoor air in, which condenses on cooler surfaces.
Insulation Issues: Poor insulation can lead to higher humidity in the crawl space.
Poor Drainage: Ineffective drainage can cause water to accumulate below the home and cause humidity as it evaporates.

Timely intervention is key to protecting your home’s structure and the health of its occupants.

Can You Fix Crawl Space Humidity?

Absolutely, crawl space encapsulation is the best solution for fixing crawl space humidity. It consists of various waterproofing tools that control moisture levels below your home.

After installation, encapsulation keeps humid air out during the summer and stops groundwater from building up in the crawl space. That’s why it’s the most effective way to fix and prevent crawl space humidity.

How to Fix Crawl Space Humidity

Fixing crawl space humidity requires a comprehensive crawl space encapsulation system. With a few key tools working together, they keep humidity low.

Here’s what encapsulation looks like:

Conduct an in-depth inspection to identify specific issues and their causes. 
Seal crawl space access doors to prevent external air and moisture intrusion. 
Install interior drainage and a sump pump to collect and expel water. 
Lay drainage matting on the floor to guide water towards the drainage system. 
Place foam board insulation panels on the walls to regulate indoor temperatures. 
Apply a vapor barrier on the floor and walls, encapsulating the crawl space. 
Set up a dehumidifier to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels.

Bay Area Underpinning’s advanced, proprietary encapsulation tools are well-suited for the climate and soil found in Northern California.

Why Address Crawl Space Humidity Now

Addressing crawl space humidity quickly provides you and your home with several benefits:

Prevents structural damage.
Mitigates health risks caused by mold growth.
Discourages pests by making the crawl space less attractive to them.
Enhances air quality overall.
Boosts your home’s energy efficiency.
Helps maintain your property’s value.

Ignoring the issue is a bad idea, as the problem won’t fix itself. Crawl space humidity only gets worse with time, leading to more extensive and costly repairs; act now to avoid further issues.

Contact Bay Area Underpinning for Effective Crawl Space Solutions

Crawl space humidity can significantly damage your home’s structural integrity and your family’s health if you ignore it. Bay Area Underpinning’s encapsulation system stops humidity and prevents it from coming back.

Since 2005, we’ve been trusted by homeowners across Northern California for our industry-leading crawl space repair services. If you need help with your crawl space, schedule a free inspection with us today!

Crawl Space Humidity FAQs

What are the signs of high humidity in a crawl space?

If your crawl space has high humidity, you may notice higher energy bills, sagging floors in your home, and mold growth in your home.

Can high crawl space humidity affect the rest of my home?

Yes, high humidity in your crawl space can lead to other issues in your home. Your living space may feel more damp or humid than normal or you might see higher energy bills.

What are the benefits of lowering humidity in my crawl space?

Some benefits include lower utility bills, cleaner air quality, and a more comfortable living space. Some indirect benefits include less chance of pest infestations and/or mold growth.