Mold growth in crawl spaces is a serious situation that can spread mold into the interior of your home. Since mold thrives in moist, humid and dark environments, crawl spaces are the perfect space for mold growth. Dirt floors add moisture and humidity and when combined with warm temperatures and organic materials such as wood mold growth can flourish. Since natural airflow in a house is from bottom to top, mold spores can easily be drawn into the interior levels of the home via the HVAC system. The cost to perform a mold remediation in a crawl space can be more expensive than to remediate for mold in the main level or basement of a home. The reason for this is because of the extreme and sometimes hazardous working conditions that are involved in a crawl space. Many times the height of a crawl space may only be 3-4 feet so this involves technicians to work while lying on their back or knees which can be a timely and uncomfortable. There are also pipes, wiring, and other items that are in the way that can also increase the time it takes to clean and remove mold. Cleaning a crawl space can be a very tedious process so it involves more labor hours than a typical mold remediation. There are also other factors that can contribute to a higher cost.
Mold prevention in crawl spaces should include the following:
1. Contain dirt floor with 6 mil plastic that extends up along walls and secure with tape. This is to minimize the effects of ground moisture.
2. Have proper ventilation: at least two open vents on opposing sides of the foundation, with vents as close to the corners as possible.
2. Make sure exterior grading slopes out and away from foundation of home.
3. Clear guttering of leaves and other debris and make sure guttering steers water out and away from home a minimum of two feet.
4. Have HVAC system checked yearly by a HVAC professional for leaks and needed repairs.
