Crawl Space Encapsulation Services in Eufaula

Is Your Crawl Space Damp or Humid? Contact Pierman

Just like any part of your home, a crawl space has an important function to fulfill. If it is not in good condition, it can affect your energy bill, your health, and your home’s structural integrity.

Many crawl spaces in Oklahoma suffer from water damage and high humidity, which can cause a wide array of problems. The solution? Crawl space encapsulation, at times coupled with other crawl space waterproofing measures.

Our crawl space encapsulation and repair services will provide a clean storage environment, decrease moisture, and increase overall energy efficiency in your home.

What is Crawl Space Encapsulation

You've heard of probably heard of waterproofing. Well crawl space encapsulation can be more accurately described as moisture-proofing.

Crawl spaces are even more susceptible to moisture problems than basements because in most there is nothing separating the exposed ground from the crawl space so the ground moisture vapor can enter freely.

Crawl space encapsulation solves this by placing a tear-resistant vapor barrier along the crawl space floor and walls as well as an structural components that contact the ground below, such as the piers in a pier and beam foundation. All crawl space vents are also sealed to prevent moisture from entering through them.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crawl Space Encapsulation

What are vapor barriers made of?

While the term can encompass many items of varying degrees of effectiveness, vapor barriers used in crawl space encapsulation generally consist of tear-resistant polyethylene plastic sheeting. It might be better termed a vapor retarder. While moisture can technically pass through the sheeting, it has exceptionally low permeability (similar to that of glass or sheet metal). This means it dramatically slows the rate at which water vapor moves through it, effectively keeping most of the moisture out.

Why do crawl spaces have vents if they should be sealed?

Vents were initially installed in crawl spaces to allow the humidity within them to dissipate. These often prove insufficient, however, and once the crawl space is encapsulated the air entering through the vent is likely to be more humid than the air leaving it. This is why we seal them off during the encapsulation process.

Does crawl space encapsulation solve all crawl space water problems?

In many cases, yes, especially when paired with a crawl space dehumidifier that is often installed during the encapsulation process. When frequent standing water in the crawl space is an issue, however, additional waterproofing features like a French drain will likely be required.

What Problems Can Water Cause in a Crawl Space

A crawl space that is encapsulated creates a controlled environment. A crawl space that is not encapsulated causes many problems such as:

• Musty odors
• Mold and mildew
• Fungus growth
• Insect infestation
• Wood rot
• Moisture damage

Some of these, like mold and mildew growth, can be health hazards. This is especially true if someone in your family has an existing respiratory issue.

Others, like wood rot, can cause structural problems. Beams and floor joists are exposed to the elements in your crawl space and if they begin to rot they cannot provide your home with the proper support. If your beams or joists have begun to rot, our technicians are skilled at crawl space repair. We can replace the damaged material, solving the foundation issues that would otherwise exist.

Searching for a Crawl Space Encapsulation Contractor in Eufaula? Contact Us Today

As a homeowner, having a safe and healthy home is important to you and your family. Let the professionals at Pierman Foundation Repair Services of Oklahoma create a healthier home by installing a vapor barrier in your crawl space. Contact us today to get started with your free quote. We offer crawl space encapsulation services throughout much of Oklahoma, from our home in Eufaula.