How to Correct a Wet Crawlspace
Crawl spaces can be uncomfortable to access under the best circumstances, and discovering that your crawl space is damp only makes it more so. Additionally, standing water or moisture on the walls in a crawl space can cause structural damage, which is expensive to repair. To prevent this from occurring, maintain a dry climate in the crawl space, which can be accomplished by a variety of preventive and restorative methods. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Check the vents in the crawl space and ensure that they are not clogged or otherwise blocked. Blocked ventilation can allow moisture to accumulate.
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Apply a sealant, such as DryLock, which protects the walls and floor of the crawl space from water damage. Apply sealant with a heavy brush while vents are open or a fan airs the room out. Consult the package of sealant for proper curing times, as they will vary by brand.
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3
Position a sump pump in the lowest point in the crawl space, with an outlet leading outside, to pump out any standing water in the crawl space.
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Use a dehumidifier to remove moisture in the air, helping to prevent water from building up on the walls or floor. A humidifier is an electronic device placed in the crawl space. The humidifier creates a cold environment around a metal piece in the dehumidifier, causing moisture in the air to condense; the condensation is then gathered in a bin that is emptied periodically.
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Use a fan blowing air into the space from a dry room to help dry up any minor water build-up.
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Check the insulation or ceiling over the crawl space for signs of water damage or retained water, and replace any damaged materials.
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