5 Benefits of Crawlspace Insulation You Shouldn’t Ignore

Your home will stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer if your crawl space is properly insulated. Additionally, it helps save energy costs and stop mildew. The best type of insulation for your crawl space will vary based on the layout and kind of area. However, the most common options are fiberglass batts and cellulose.

Reduce Your Energy Bills

The EPA estimates that a well-insulated crawl space saves about 15% on home heating and cooling costs. This is because uninsulated crawl spaces allow outside air to enter your home’s living sections, increasing energy costs. Insulating your crawl space prevents this air movement, reducing energy bills and making your home more comfortable. Foam boards are a less-expensive option for protecting your crawl space, but they tend to soak up moisture and are a favorite hangout for rodents. Closed-cell spray foam is a better option because it creates an effective air barrier and thermal insulation. Professionals usually install this type of insulation. Crawlspace insulation can be an excellent selling point for your home, as it shows potential buyers that you’ve taken steps to improve the condition of your crawl space. It can also help keep your home healthy and energy-efficient while keeping your belongings safe from floods.

Keep Moisture Out

Insulating your crawl space will help keep air out and moisture in. If left untreated, excessive moisture can cause mold and mildew to grow in the area, eventually affecting the rest of your home. Mold and mildew are harmful because they emit spores that can trigger allergies, asthma, and infections. Insulation will also help reduce permeating noises like traffic, construction, and other loud sounds that might disturb your family. It’s easy to install acoustic insulation in the floor or walls of your crawl space to keep these annoying noises out and maintain peace throughout your household. Insulation will protect your crawl space from water damage by encapsulating the entire area and directing rainwater away from the home. This will prevent rotting wood and other problems that could cost you money.

Increase Your Home’s Value

When people think of home improvements that add value, they usually think about kitchen remodels or new bathroom fixtures. However, crawl space encapsulation is another great way to increase your home’s value. Many homes have a crawl space, a narrow, unfinished space beneath the house floor that provides access to water pipes and electrical wiring. Unfortunately, these spaces are often damp, moldy, and inhabited by pests. Crawl space insulation can prevent musty and unhealthy air from leaking into the rest of the house, keeping it warm and healthy. This is a great selling point for potential buyers. You can choose to use foam boards or spray foam insulation. Spray foam is the preferred option because it is more effective and lasts longer than other types of insulation.

Reduce Allergens

Insulating your crawl space can reduce the airborne pollutants often present in this part of your home. This can include pollen from plants and trees outside and pet dander from pets that may live in your house. These irritants can cause allergies, resulting in itchy eyes and sneezing when inhaled. Insulation can prevent these pollutants from entering your home’s conditioned living spaces, improving indoor air quality and providing comfort for those with allergies and asthma. Insulating your crawl space is a smart way to save money and protect the areas of your home most vulnerable to moisture damage and temperature changes. Contact a professional insulation contractor to ensure your crawl space is properly insulated and sealed using closed-cell spray foam that doesn’t absorb water or attract pests.

Increase Your Home’s Comfort

If your home has poor insulation in the crawl space, warm air from the ground can creep into rooms above, causing uncomfortable temperatures and drafts. Insulating your crawl space will prevent this and keep the area comfortable. Before protecting your crawl space, make sure it’s clean and dry. This means putting on a pair of work gloves and using a mask to check for mold or rodents in the space. You’ll also want to install a vapor barrier and remove any vents or covers allowing outside air to enter the area. Consult a certified energy advisor if you need help deciding what insulation is best for your crawl space. They can provide a whole-home energy audit and recommend the most cost-effective upgrades for your home’s comfort.