Our System
Our system encapsulates the crawlspace with 15 mil thick vapor barrier that provides nearly zero permeance and exceeds the requirements of ASTM E1745 Class A for puncture resistance and tensile strength. Since the vapor barrier has almost no moisture permeance it prevents the soil from absorbing moisture from the air and blocks the release of ground moisture from entering the crawlspace.
Benefits of a Vapor Barrier System
Many people with allergies or asthma don't realize that the condition of their crawlspace may be affecting their health.
Exposed dirt in crawlspaces is a hidden health hazard! A damp crawlspace has a direct effect on the air we breathe. It's the MOISTURE that leads to mold growth, nuisance odors, structural damage, pests and other damage.
After the installation of the vapor barrier and ventilation systems, your crawlspace will look cleaner and it will help make your home a healthier environment in which to live.
Mold/Mildew
Things you should know about mold and mildew:
Molds produce tiny air-borne spores that travel through the indoor and outdoor air continally. When they land on damp surfaces they may begin to grow by digesting whatever they can to survive. They can grow on wood, paper, carpet and foods.
Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints.
Mold can irritate people with allergies caused by allergens. One of the most common allergens is the fecal matter from dust mites. Dust mites survive by absorbing moisture from the air through their skin. By reducing the relative humidity to below 50% relative humidity, the dust mites will die off.
Until a contractor (HVAC, termite inspector, plumber, home inspector, etc.) enters the crawlspace and discovers moisture, homeowners will often overlook the crawlspace as a potential source for the mold.
According to the EPA- "Crawlspaces should be well-ventilated".
You cannot eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment but the way to control the mold growth is with moisture control.
Pests
Spiders, beetles, centipedes, termites, roaches, fleas, earwigs, bees, and all kinds of other insects prefer dark and damp dirt crawlspaces. In addition, animals such as mice, rats, skunks, gophers, moles, and snakes have been found in crawlspaces.
Eliminating these conditions is an important step in their control.
Building Code:
The importance of ventilation is stated in the California Building Code 2306.7:
California Building Code:
Section 2306.7 Under-Floor Ventilation-
"Under floor areas shall be ventilated by an approved mechanical means or by openings into the under-floor area walls [for SPCB] not less than 1 1/2 square feet for each 25 feet of exterior wall. Such openings shall have a net area of not less than 1 square foot for each 150 sq. ft of under-floor area.."
“Exception for {SPCB]: For purpose of structural pest control inspections, ventilation shall be considered inadequate when the lack thereof has contributed to the growth of wood-destroying pests or organisms.”
Fungi
Wood decaying fungus is the most common cause of wood destruction in homes. Fungus spores begin developing on and consuming the wood when the moisure content reaches 28% of the wood by weight. Fungus infected wood becomes soft and spongy to the touch and loses it structural strength. Wood that has been damaged by fungus must be completely removed and the underlying moisture conditon must be corrected.
