What Effect Does Standing Water In A Crawlspace Have On A Home’s Value?
The presence of standing water in the crawl area does not, in and of itself, lower the value of a home. When there is no movement of water in the crawlspace, there is a greater risk of mold growth, which lowers the value of the home. The appraised value of a home can be significantly impacted by the presence of mold. For instance, FHA appraisers are required to make a note of whether or not there is mold developing in a home, as well as the type of mold, and where it is located. If you see black mold developing inside your home, there are a few things you need to be aware of, including the following: Your health could be negatively affected for the rest of your life if you are exposed to toxic black mold, and in some extreme circumstances, it could even be fatal.
Benefits of a Crawlspace
How Should Water Be Eliminated From The Crawlspace?
Improper grading and the absence of rain gutters are two factors that contribute to the worsening of moisture control issues in crawlspaces. These factors allow excessive rainwater or ground water to enter the crawlspace. The problem is made worse by insufficient ventilation in the crawl area, which mixes warm and cold air, leading to surface condensation and increasing the amount of moisture in the crawlspace underneath the building. This consistent soaking of building materials produces the ideal environment for mold to develop, termites to thrive, and structural damage to occur underneath your house. These problems can be avoided by avoiding continuous wetting of building materials. Get in touch with us if you need the most effective crawlspace water removal services in the state of Carolina. The following are some common approaches that can be taken to deal with water in the crawlspace:
The Disadvantages That Come Along With Having A Crawlspace
The plumbing, electrical wiring, ducting, air conditioning, and heating systems in a building are typically housed in crawlspaces, which also allow for unrestricted access to these substructures. crawlspaces are also used to store insulation. The issue with a crawlspace is that it has the potential to get filthy and moist very quickly. If there is an excessive amount of moisture in the crawlspace, there is a possibility that there will be a problem with mold, fungi, termites, and rodents.
- Moisture: The presence of moisture is not a crawlspace’s greatest friend, and this is especially true in older homes that have underground spaces that are aired. The structural integrity of wooden items can be compromised by an excessive amount of moisture, which can lead to rot. The cost to replace rotten support beams can range anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the material that was utilized (wood or steel) and how straightforward the problem was to remedy.
- Mildew, Mold, and Other Forms of Fungus: In the event that a moisture problem is not addressed, the crawlspace will develop into the perfect environment for the growth of microorganisms such as mold and mildew. If the air from the crawlspace circulates throughout the house, the potentially dangerous germs and bacteria will disperse throughout the home. This might mean disaster for those who already struggle with respiratory conditions or allergies.
- Infestations: Crawl areas that aren’t properly sealed up leave themselves open to the possibility of an insect infestation. Rodents and other small creatures are drawn there because of the warmth and moisture that can be found there. Insect infestations can be a source of air pollution due to the dander and hair shed by the insects, but the insects’ droppings also present a health risk. In addition to the damage that can be caused by tiny animals, structural components, HVAC ducts, and wiring can also be damaged by insects like termites.
- Insufficient Insulation: Crawlspaces that have not been sufficiently enclosed or insulated can be a source of interference for the heating and cooling systems in a building. If the air inside is warmer or cooler than the air outside, respectively, the furnace or heater may have to run for a longer period of time in order to maintain the desired temperature.
