Crawl spaces are excellent storage areas. However, one downside to having a crawl space is mold.
This article explores how to kill mold in crawl space areas. We’ll walk you through using DIY and professional methods.
What Are the Causes of Dangerous Mold in a Crawl Space?
Basement Cracks and Flooding
Basement cracks or openings allow moisture to penetrate this enclosed space. Even a small crack can cause mold to thrive.
Plumbing Leaks
Leaky pipes or other damaged plumbing equipment raise moisture levels within the crawl space. In turn, the moist environment quickly promotes mold growth.
Condensation
Moisture in the air condenses into water droplets settling on surfaces. These droplets subsequently attract black, white, and yellow mold in crawl space surfaces.
Poor Ventilation
Lack of ventilation causes humidity levels to rise. These damp surroundings create the perfect environment for mold to grow.
What Are the Signs of Having Mold In Your Crawl Space?
Dark Stains
Fuzzy, slimy, or powdery patches and stains on your crawl space walls, posts, or floor joists are sure signs of mold growth.
Mildew Smell
An unpleasant mold or mildew odor on the first floor is due to mold growth.
Hot and Stuffy Air
Increasing humidity levels within your mold crawl space is a major cause of mold growth.
Frost Buildup or Roof Sheathing
Efflorescence on concrete foundation walls or roof sheathing comes from rising dampness levels usually accompanied by discoloration.
Roof Leaks
If your crawl space has leaking pipes or wall cracks letting in water, it can incubate mold growth. This situation could eventually lead to roof leaks.
How to Get Rid of Mold in Crawl Space
Wondering how to remove mold in the crawl space under your house? These tips ensure you completely remove mold in your crawl space:
DIY Mold Removal
Vinegar and Water
Vinegar in water has antibacterial and antifungal properties that effectively kill black mold in crawl space surfaces.
Baking Soda
Baking soda kills black mold in crawl spaces effectively while remaining safe for children and pets.
Mold Removal Products
Mold removal products effectively remove yellow, black, and white mold in crawl space surfaces.
Hiring Professional Mold Removal in Crawl Space
For stubborn mold in crawl spaces, call in a professional. These experts will follow a detailed crawl space mold removal process for long-term solutions:
Drying and mold removal
Experts dry the crawl space and remove mold from the property.
Removal of mold-infested insulation
The removal of infested insulation prevents further mold growth.
Mold primer and mold control application
Applying a high-quality primer eliminates existing mold and prevents further mold growth.
Bath fan vent repair or installation
Connecting the bathroom fan to the roof vent prevents moisture on the first floor.
Additional ventilation installation
Installation of eave vents and ridge vents significantly prevents mold growth.
How Can I Prevent Mold in a Crawl Space?
You can prevent mold from growing under the vapor barrier in a crawl space. Take the following steps:
- Ensure a minimum temperature difference between the exterior and interior of your home.
- Secure the crawl space by preventing moisture, especially from leaky water pipes.
- Install outdoor dryer vents, ensuring they’re not blowing humid air into the crawl space.
- Repair roof leakages immediately.
- Don’t use vacuums to clean mold, as they only spread the spores. Use a damp rag to clean mold in crawl spaces.
- Consult an insulation attic expert to prevent mold growth.
Conclusion
When you first notice mold in crawl space surfaces, contact a professional immediately to prevent further infestation and expensive repairs. With the help of Insulation Co., LLC, you can remove mold in your crawl space quickly and effectively. Call (425) 903-6453 to schedule a consultation with our experts today.