The crawl space encapsulation definitely has some benefits, but it also comes with some drawbacks.
To explore more about the pro and cons of crawl space encapsulation and some alternatives to crawl space encapsulation, stay with us till the end.
These substitutes are not only cheap but sometimes, the best decision you can make too.
Stay with me for a while.
Affordable Crawl Space Encapsulation Alternatives
Crawl space encapsulation has its own advantages and disadvantages. Considering many crawl space encapsulation drawbacks, you should not stick to this only option.
You should always explore all of the alternatives available at hand. Let us explore some of the other options which might work better than crawl space encapsulation.
- Vapour Barriers
Vapor barriers are usually made of plastic sheets or foil sheets, which are used for dampproofing. This is an alternative setup method in which you put black plastic throughout the crawl space floor instead of using all of the plastic.
Because the vents aren’t covered as they would be with crawl space encapsulation, a dehumidifier isn’t required.
Most people choose vapor barrier installation over crawl space encapsulation since it is less expensive and doesn’t require any additional pumps or air conditioning.
Another benefit of getting vapor barriers is that it reduces the humidity in your crawl space to prevent mold growth. In your crawl space, you can keep things.
And it Improves the air quality in your home. These are the main reason for vapor barriers to be seen as an alternative option for crawl space encapsulation.
However, before you consider this, make sure to understand all the differences between crawl space encapsulation and vapor barrier first!
- Slab Foundation
The most common foundation options available are slab foundation and crawl space encapsulation. But each has unique characteristics that can make or break the structure of your house.
As we already have a brief idea about how crawl space encapsulation works, let us know about the working mechanism of the slabs and their efficiency.
Slab foundations are usually thick slabs made of concrete that are laid or spread over the ground of the house directly, and they are approximately 4” -6” thick in the middle.
The edges of these slabs are thicker as they provide support or strength around the periphery.
This helps to take the load of the weight of the house. Sometimes, steel rods are also used in the slab to increase durability and strength to bear the load of the entire house.
Slab foundations are preferable for moist climates because it prevents mold growth in the home.
It also acts as pest control for the house. It’s comparatively more affordable than crawl space encapsulation.
Unlike the crawl space encapsulations, slab foundations are more energy-efficient and protect the home from outside cold or hot weather blowing inside.
Also, very minimal upkeep is needed for this. The most attractive part of the slab foundation is its durability.
Once a slab foundation is installed, it would last for 50 years or even more than that. It is also very suitable for walking as well.
- Basement
Basements are underground spaces in a house, where you can easily stay or make it livable and workable. The main purpose of both basements and crawl spaces is to hide the guts of the house.
But the main difference between these two is that you can easily stay in the basement but crawl spaces do not have that much space.
Basements were originally planned to control the temperature of the entire house, and it also works as an extra storage space for the home.
Nowadays, basements are also used as typical living spaces, and they are also rented out as apartments.
Big skyscrapers use basements as car parking as well. Although the basement spaces can be used as living space, it is very risky as all the guts are placed there. Many loose electric connections or wires might be there.
Also, as it is just above the ground, molds and insects might be found there if not controlled properly. These are not healthy for anyone.
Crawl space encapsulation might need extra ventilation and a bit more expenses added to it; basements are hard to maintain.
And if not maintained properly, the basement gets damp real quick as it is challenging to keep it dry.
Why Are Crawl Spaces Needed?
Whenever you are looking for a house to buy or rent, you might hear the term ‘crawl space’ in many places. But do you actually know what crawl space is and why you need it?
Crawl spaces work as ventilators of a house or building. It is a hollow space below the house which is about 1-3 feet high. The height is only suitable for a person to crawl, and that is why it is termed as ‘Crawl Space’.
Crawl spaces are made between the ground and the bottom floor of a building or a house, leaving a small room.
This room created beneath the building or house helps to adjust various electrical wires, sometimes pipes which create hindrances or decrease the look or beauty of the home.
Also, it is very convenient for the plumbing, air conditioner lines which would typically be in an inconvenient place. It makes it easier for us to repair these wires or install them.
The spaces help us keep extra service installations for the house. They also help you avoid the risks of getting harmed by electric wires or electrified objects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let’s learn the answers to some frequently asked questions.
The average cost of the crawl depends on many factors, including its size, its condition, etc. The average cost of this is around $7,000. The price starts from around $5000 and continues up to $30,000.
Encapsulation of crawl space is usually done to control the humidity of your house. It has a lot of benefits. It saves a lot from the electricity bills you pay every month and also improves the air circulation and quality of your house.
Vapor barriers act as a shield to the infrastructure of your house. It resists the ground moisture to evaporate and damage the interiors and exteriors of your home.
Final Words
There will always be a debate regarding installing a crawl space or any alternatives for your house. You have to determine what requirements your house has and how much you can afford to fix or install it.
These were some substitutes for crawl space encapsulation that you might get in the market for crawl space encapsulation. But always remember to explore every option available.
About Author
I have a home that is. 720sq ft. Recently got a quote for 32,000. To install a trench, 2 sump pumps, 2humidifiers, and total encapsulation. Is this overkill?