If one has a crawl space under the house, he may not pay much attention to it unless there is a problem. However, ignoring the crawl space can lead to severe issues affecting a home’s structure, value, and health. Water accumulation is one of the most common and dangerous problems in a crawl space. It is why crawl space water removal is necessary for keeping a house safe and healthy. Water can enter the crawl space from various sources, such as plumbing leaks, gutter overflow, foundation cracks, poor drainage, or high groundwater levels.
Water Damage in Crawl Spaces
Regardless of the source, water in a crawl space can cause a lot of damage and trouble, such as:
- Rotting and weakening the wooden beams, joists, and subfloor that support the house
- Eroding and cracking the concrete foundation that holds the house
- Creating mold and mildew that can spread to other parts of the house and affect the air quality and health
- Attracting pests and rodents that can damage the house and carry diseases
- Increasing energy bills by reducing the insulation and efficiency of the house
Steps to Remove Water from the Crawl Space
Therefore, it is essential to remove water from the crawl space as soon as possible and prevent it from coming back.
Here are some steps that one can follow to achieve this:
- Identify the source of the water. Before attempting to remove water from the crawl space, one needs to find out where it is coming from and fix it. He can inspect the crawl space for signs of leaks, cracks, or seepage. He can also check plumbing fixtures, drain pipes, water supply pipes, gutters, downspouts, and landscaping for any problems that may cause water to enter the crawl space.
- Remove the standing water. If one has a small amount of water in the crawl space, he can use a wet or dry vacuum to suck it up. If there is a large amount of water, one may need to use a submersible pump to drain it. He can also contact a professional crawl space water removal service for assistance.
- Dry the crawl space. After removing the standing water, dry the remaining moisture in the crawl space. Fans, dehumidifiers, heaters, or ventilation systems can circulate the air and reduce humidity. Remove any wet or damaged insulation, vapor barrier, or other materials that may harbor mold or bacteria.
- Prevent future water problems. Once the crawl space is dry, One needs to keep it that way. He can install a sump pump to pump out any water that may accumulate in the crawl space in the future. He can also install a vapor barrier to cover the ground and walls of the crawl space and prevent moisture from evaporating into the air. He can also improve the drainage around the house by grading the soil away from the foundation, extending the downspouts, or adding French drains or gutters.
Conclusion
The crawl space water removal is difficult, but it protects the home from severe damage and prevents health risks. Following the above steps, one can ensure the crawl space is dry and safe for years. If one needs help with these steps, he can consult a professional with experience and expertise. A professional can inspect the crawl space for any signs of mold, pests, or structural issues requiring further attention or repair.
