Crawl Space Encapsulation vs Vapor Barrier – What’s the Difference?
Encapsulating a crawl space in a pier and beam home in Texas makes it waterproof, insulated, and as airtight as possible. It keeps the air dry and free of contaminants. Vapor Barrier installation also involves covering a crawl space with a plastic material. With this service, the area is not completely sealed off, which means there’s a chance that moisture can still intrude into the space.
Align Foundation Repair is a full-service foundation repair and drainage solution company dedicated to the highest quality repair and integrity in Dallas Fort Worth. We pride ourselves on creating a new level of trust for our customers. We focus on customer service as much as the quality products we install and provide. Contact crawl space encapsulation experts today for more information.
Crawl Space Encapsulation
Crawl spaces are small areas beneath homes. Unlike basements, crawl spaces are usually compact and intended to house equipment necessary for utility and HVAC functions. One of its greatest purposes is that it can also protect homes from water damage in the event of flooding.
While crawl spaces offer flood protection, moisture damage can still occur. Consider that water vapor can seep into your home from the ground, even through concrete. Crawl space encapsulation is a proven method to protect your home from moisture-related issues, such as mold and mildew, by adding a sealed vapor barrier to your crawlspace’s surfaces.
By installing a heavy-duty StegoCrawl® wrap lining in our crawl space encapsulation service to keep the water vapor out, we can help you avoid common and costly issues.
All areas, including foundation walls and vents, will be sealed to prevent the intrusion of water and humidity. Additionally, seams in the material are secured to prevent gaps from forming, which could allow moisture to enter the area.
Crawl space encapsulation also involves other services to fully protect a home’s foundation from moisture issues. Installation of a dehumidifier keeps the fully sealed area dry, while sump pumps help remove standing water. Sump pumps work by moving water away from a home’s foundation in the event of pooling and puddling.
Vapor Barrier Installation
Vapor barrier installation also covers a crawl space with plastic material, but it’s not as comprehensive as encapsulation. With this service, the area is not entirely sealed off, which means there’s a chance that moisture can still intrude into the space.
Each System Has Unique Benefits and Drawbacks
Both systems positively impact energy bills, and both are effective at limiting the accumulation of moisture under the home. However, consider the unique advantages and downsides offered by each:
Crawl Space Encapsulation
PROS
- Decreased risk of water damage and mold growth
- Better protection of HVAC ducts
- Reduced chance of pests making their way into your crawl space
CONS
Because crawl spaces are completely sealed with encapsulation, you won’t be able to access the area easily. That may pose an issue if you frequently store items within your crawl space. Further, some structures will require the installation of a dehumidifier or sump pump.
Vapor Barrier
PROS
- Affordability
- Reduced humidity in crawl spaces
- Improved air quality
Contact Align Foundation Repair for a Free Estimate
We retrofit existing pier and beam house foundations with crawl space encapsulation, or we install an encapsulation for new pier and beam homes or new construction. Depending on the size of the project, the timeline to complete an encapsulation is only 2-5 days. If you are experiencing moisture-related problems in your home, now is the time to act to avoid more costly issues down the line. Contact Align Foundation Repair and schedule a free crawl space encapsulation estimate.
