Is Crawl Space Encapsulation Worth the Money?

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If you’ve investigated crawl space encapsulation cost, you might wonder if this service is worth the money. Homeowners might also consider managing this job themselves, to save on that cost!

Crawl space encapsulation costs are an excellent investment, ensuring a clean, dry crawl space. These barriers reduce the risk of mold, wood rot, rusted plumbing fixture, and damaged wiring under a structure. Blocking moisture in the crawl space also means less risk of foundation damage over the years!

To ensure you’re making the best decision for your property, check out some added information about encapsulation and vapor barriers. As always, discuss this with a foundation repair contractor before making any decisions. He or she can help you decide the right option for your home or business. A repair contractor can also answer your questions about maintaining a foundation over the years!

Is Crawl Space Encapsulation Worth the Cost?

Consider some advantages of crawl space encapsulation, vapor barrier installation, and other preventative measures. This information can help you better understand why these services are worth the cost!

• Moisture in a crawl space increases the risk of pier and beam foundation damage. Wood piers and beams absorb that moisture, risking cracks and splinters. Metal foundation pieces might rust or corrode. Blocking moisture from collecting in the crawl space reduces these risks!
• Trapped moisture also risks mold growth along a structure’s underside. This mold can then spread along a structure’s framing, drywall, and other such surfaces. Mold is unhealthy for occupants and risks water damage and stains. Encapsulation and vapor barriers can stop mold from ever forming and then spreading!
• A damp crawl space attracts insects, rodents, and other unwanted pests. These can then make their way into interior spaces. These pests are not only bothersome, but they can cause thousands of dollars in damages! Termites and carpenter ants damage wood materials, while rodents might chew through electrical cords and other features.
• Encapsulation also helps insulate a property. Cool, damp air can easily seep through a structure’s underside, creating an uncomfortable interior environment.
• Many property owners use a crawl space for storage. Encapsulation or a vapor barrier protects items from mold, mildew, rust, rot, and other damage.
• A fully encapsulated crawl space also makes for easier access to a structure’s underside. You’ll appreciate a clean, dry space when it’s time to inspect a foundation, plumbing pipes, and other features.

Does Crawl Space Encapsulation Increase Home Value?

Only a real estate agent or appraiser can tell you if encapsulation might increase your home’s value. However, you might consider why crawl space encapsulation is an excellent choice even for a home you want to sell.

First, remember that potential buyers usually look for “turnkey” homes, meaning those in good condition and without needed repairs. Second, remember that your home needs to compete with similar homes on the market.

Investing in encapsulation now helps ensure the foundation and other materials are damage-free when you’re ready to sell. Encapsulation also reduces mold risks, as said. Your home is then likely to attract more buyers.

Additionally, a home with crawl space encapsulation might seem more desirable than one without! Even if another home for sale is in good condition now, without encapsulation its foundation might soon suffer damage.

A protected crawl space also means added space for storage under the house. Your home will then stand out from the competition when you invest in crawl space encapsulation!

How Long Does Crawl Space Encapsulation Last?

Manufacturers and installers usually warranty crawl space encapsulation labor and materials to last between 15 and 20 years. High-quality materials and added sump pump or dehumidifier installation can mean an increased encapsulation lifespan. Some encapsulation coatings or vapor barriers might last well beyond that 20-year mark!

When deciding on an encapsulation system for your home, consider how long you plan on staying versus selling. For example, if you might sell the home in 10 years, a system with a 15-year warranty is probably sufficient. On the other hand, if you have no plans to sell, invest in the highest-quality system you can afford.

What Is the Average Cost to Encapsulate a Crawl Space?

Crawl space encapsulation costs vary according to materials chosen and the size of your property. Most systems range from $1500 to $15,000, but homeowners can expect to pay $5500 on average.

No matter your expected costs, encapsulation and vapor barrier installation are not DIY jobs! Improper techniques can actually trap moisture in a crawl space. A foundation repair contractor also ensures a thorough installation, without overlooking any nooks and crannies in the space. In many cases, an encapsulation system guarantee requires professional installation.

Is Crawl Space Encapsulation Really Necessary?

As with any other maintenance project around your property, crawl space encapsulation isn’t actually “necessary.” A high-quality foundation will last for years without damage, with or without an encapsulation system. Proper drainage around your property also helps protect a crawl space from trapped moisture.

However, it’s vital that property owners consider the advantages of a high-quality encapsulation system. Your installation costs are probably far less than any foundation repair costs you might face down the road. Mold cleanup, termite damage repair, and other such costs can also far outweigh encapsulation installation expenses.

Whether or not an encapsulation system increases property values, it will definitely protect that value over time! Damaged piers and beams, wood rot, mold, and other issues are likely to lower your home’s value. Extreme foundation damage can even mean that your house is not up to local building codes. This can definitely affect its value and salability!

If you use your crawl space for storage, you might also consider costs for replacing damaged items. Trapped moisture can risk mold, mildew, rust, and other issues, as said. Your encapsulation costs are a great investment in protecting your personal items from damage over the years.

Columbia Foundation Repair & Waterproofing is happy to offer this information about crawl space encapsulation cost and benefits. Hopefully you found it helpful in deciding if encapsulation is right for your property. If you’re in the market for expert foundation fixes or waterproofing, call our Columbia foundation repair contractors. We offer FREE inspections and price quotes. To get started, use our contact form or just give us a call.