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If your crawl space floor drains slowly, there could be a problem. The issue can cause your home’s foundation to settle and make it vulnerable to water damage. Inflamed linings, cracks, and vents also contribute to foundation-threatening problems. Fortunately, you don’t have to suffer from these issues. You can make the crawl space repair in Pittsburgh a snap by following these simple tips.
Hire Professional
First, hire a professional Pittsburgh crawl space repair provider in your area. Get quotes from a couple of contractors and compare them. Ask about the company’s past record and ask about their methods for addressing issues. Some contractors specialize in only one type of repair, so make sure you get quotes from at least two so that you know which option best suits your needs.
Learn the Basics
Next, learn the basics of what to do to keep your space dry and safe. This can be one of the most important steps to take when it comes to crawl space repair in Pittsburgh. Keep a first aid kit and basic supplies nearby. Open the windows if it starts raining. Open the doors if it starts to get cold outside.
Thorough Inspection
Crawl space inspections are often recommended by local health departments. Mold testing should also be included in your routine. Mold spores are not only unhealthy, but they can also create a serious health risk to you and your family. When a company tests for mold, they test for other possible contaminants as well. Don’t assume your home has no mold because you haven’t had a thorough inspection. Get a thorough inspection at least once a year.
Control Moisture
A professional company should offer a complete system for controlling moisture in crawl spaces. This includes vapor barriers, air dehumidifiers, moisture detectors, and a humidistat. This doesn’t mean you don’t need those things, but it does mean that if you have high levels of humidity, you might benefit from some additional solutions. For example, you can install a humidistat or dehumidifier that lowers the humidity in space by collecting humidity in air ducts or pipes. The humidistat or dehumidifier will then lower the temperature of air coming into space, so the area is less likely to become too hot or too cold.
Mold or Mildew
If you have mold or mildew growth along the walls, there are products available that will not only destroy the mold but will also make it easy to remove. There are also powders and sprays you can spray on affected walls to kill mold spores. These sprays will penetrate deep into the walls and into the wood framing. If the damage is severe, these products can often work without killing all of the mold and mildew.
Sealing the Area
When it comes to reducing the number of infestations in the crawl space, you might also want to consider sealing the area. Sealing the space prevents moisture from getting inside the building and compromising the structural integrity of the floor joists, beams, and walls. This can be done with epoxy paint or sealer. If you have structural damage, this type of repair may be necessary. When doing a structural inspection, look for any signs of water infiltration, which would be an indication of moisture leakage around the foundation. This can indicate a whole variety of pest infestations, including mold and mildew.
