Moisture
Is Crawl Space Encapsulation Worth It?
Updated · Holdfast editorial
Short answerFor damp or musty crawl spaces, encapsulation usually pays off in warmer floors, better air upstairs, protected wood framing and fewer pests. Fix standing water first; encapsulating over it traps the problem.
Benefits
- Warmer floors
- Less mold and odor
- Protected joists
- Fewer pests
Do it right
What a good encapsulation includes
- Drainage and a sump if water collects
- Heavy vapor barrier on floor and walls, sealed at seams
- Vents sealed and rim joists insulated
- A dehumidifier sized to the space
- Access door sealed
Is Crawl Space Encapsulation Worth It?: follow-up questions
Does encapsulation reduce energy bills?
It can make floors warmer and reduce humidity load, but savings vary by home.
Does an encapsulated crawl space need a dehumidifier?
Usually, or conditioned air from the HVAC system, to keep humidity down.
Every home differs; editorial standards.