Sealing Crawl Space Vents

An efficient drainage system and high quality sump pump system with an airtight lid is essential.

Sealing crawl space vents. Encapsulation is a method where you completely seal the crawl space with a polythene barrier and sealing tape. Encapsulation involves removing all debris and sharp rocks sealing all vents and doors and insulating with a thick plastic layer. Water is organic material s worst enemy.

The most cost effective method is to insulate the vent cavity with 2 foam board. The only tool you really. Because you are trying to completely dry the crawl space out you ll need to start by eliminating groundwater seepage.

Align the blade of an. 2 mark the height and width on the surface of a 2 inch thick foam sheet with a marker. The dirt ground that makes up the floor of your crawl space is full of moisture.

Properly sealing the crawl space and removing the moisture from the ground and air is part of the solution that helps provide a mold free and insect free environment which leads to a more energy efficient and healthier home says waltz. Sealing your crawlspace vent is one of the first steps in encapsulating your crawlspace. Fix water leakage and isolate your house from the earth.

Jesse waltz a foundation engineer votes to seal off crawl space vents altogether. My bright idea of a quick easy way to seal up a broken crawl space vent with instapak quick foam packing material. You must lower the humidity to control the dew point and keep the air ducts in the crawl space from condensating.

Here we use 2 inch foam insulation sheets and spray foam to block any air movement. When you seal foundation vents you re cutting off the stack effect at the root. The encapsulation method is best combined with a dehumidifier to regulate the moisture level.