Crawl space insulation, although not required by any means, can make a difference in your home’s comfort level. With this type of work being something usually considered optional, you may wonder if it’s with your time.
Insulating the floor in your crawl space can be worth the effort. The accessibility and size of your crawl space will make a difference, as well as whether it is vented or not.
Read on to learn more about what to consider about insulating your crawl space.
Is Insulating Your Crawl Space Necessary?
Although many think of crawl spaces as alternatives to basements, a house might have both. Both areas will feature footings, as well as walls that are usually cinderblocks or poured concrete. Most of these areas are about one to five feet tall.
Although basement insulation is fairly commonplace, it never occurs to many homeowners that they may want to insulate a crawl space. Taking each of the most important factors into consideration will help you make your choice.
How Does Accessibility Play into Crawl Space Insulation?
Whether you decide to get crawl space insulation could depend on whether your crawl space is accessible.
Although most crawl spaces have a uniform height throughout the whole length, some do not. If it’s difficult to get through the entrance or the space has especially narrow walls, insulating the crawl space will be difficult or impossible.
There are considerably more limited options in these circumstances. Choosing certified installers for this type of work increases the chances of a good solution being found.
What Difference Does the Crawl Space Size Make?
Your crawl space size is among the most important factors in considering insulation. For example, smaller crawl spaces rarely contribute to substantial temperature changes. Because the reward is minimal, you might consider insulating a small space too much trouble.
Larger crawl spaces, on the other hand, are more likely to contribute to air leaks. If there is too much warm air in the crawl space in the summer months, you can expect this heat to rise. Chilly crawl spaces in the winter can make the flooring feel too cold underfoot.
Another issue with larger crawl spaces is that they may attract insects, mice, or rats. Unfinished crawl spaces have plenty of small gaps where pests like these can easily enter. Adding insulation makes it harder for these pests to enter.
Can Venting Impact Your Insulation Choice?
Some crawl spaces feature ventilation, usually near the top of the foundation wall. Crawl spaces often feature very moist air that can cause a lot of problems if too much air escapes through the venting.
Insulation helps provide better overall temperature control in your crawl space. With better temperature control, you’ll have fewer mold and mildew problems.
What Else Should You Think About Before Insulating Your Crawl Space?
You’ll want to make sure you remove water in your crawl space before any of your work begins. A sump pump or dehumidifier installed in this area can hasten the drying process.
If you don’t have a water vapor barrier installed, you may want to consider having one added. The greater moisture protection makes it easier to utilize your crawl space as an extra storage area.
Sealing off your vents can help put an end to temperature fluctuations. You’ll also enjoy healthier air quality, which is always a plus.
In most cases, crawl space insulation will be a good decision for your home. You’ll enjoy energy costs, a more stable temperature indoors, and be able to keep out pests.
Falcone Crawl Space can help you with anything relating to your crawl space. Contact us today if you have any questions.
