Nope, the danger is that you will have water pooling under the plastic and create possibilities for it to migrate into the house. The water is coming through the soil, the plastic barrier will help with dampness but you really want to drain that water out of the area.

How do I put moisture barrier in my crawl space?

Use plastic sheeting to control moisture in your crawlspace.



We use foil-faced rigid insulation to keep the space under the house dry. The plastic and the insulation will eliminate any moisture problems you have in the crawlspace, such as water droplets collecting on the concrete walls and pipes.

Should you put sand in your crawl space?





Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Make sure you're controlling the dew point and the humidity. So that you don't have an out-of-control issue and if any of you have put sand in your crawlspace.

What is the difference between vapor barrier and encapsulation?

Encapsulation is different from vapor barriers because it seals out water vapor entirely and stops the process of moving water vapor from the ground up. Since the entire crawl space is encapsulated, including walls, your risk of moisture problems from water vapor decreases to almost zero.

Does mold grow under crawl space vapor barrier?

Moisture from the ground and from crawl space vents combine to create all sorts of problems under your home. This moisture can create mold, mildew, dry rot and allows insects and other pests to thrive. A vapor barrier is key step to reducing this moisture.

Should I put plastic down in my crawl space?

A: The plastic cover or vapor barrier is definitely needed, especially in a dirt-floor crawl space. Without a vapor barrier, moisture will migrate to the surface of the soil and eventually cause serious problems in the crawl space, including mold and possibly structural rot. The plastic should cover the entire floor.

Should you put pea gravel in crawl space?





Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: The thing about gravel is that it's porous so it actually lets water go through it easier so it'll allow the water to move better.

Can a crawl space be filled in?

Basic plan would be to remove the floor boards, line the crawl perimeter with XPS or something, vapour barrier on the bottom (maybe Platon) and then fill with crush and pour a 4″ slab. Problems include handling plubming, and how to remove the floor joists.

What is the best way to dry out a crawl space?

Fans are an incredibly effective way to dry out an area that has condensation and moisture. Using fans in your crawl space drain system will help dry out the area thoroughly and quickly, and will help prevent the growth of mold. Afterward, be sure and have a dehumidifier in place to keep the area dry.

Will moisture barrier stop mold?

By installing a crawl space vapor barrier system, you will greatly reduce the moisture levels, preventing mold and foul odors from growing and forming.

How do you mold proof a crawl space?



The Secret to Preventing Mold in Your Crawl Space

  1. Make sure all gutters and downspouts are working correctly. …
  2. Make sure below-ground walls are free from cracks. …
  3. Look for any leaks around HVAC ducts, pipes and any plumbing components and fixtures.

How do I get rid of mold in my crawl space under my house?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: And when I turn this on a fog will come out of the end of this hose. And we have a chemical loaded. Into this fogger called mold X it kills the mold. So the mold doesn't continue to produce spores.

What must cover the dirt floor in a crawl space to prevent moisture intrusion?

Covering the soil with a vapor barrier can reduce the amount of moisture vapor emitted from the ground into the crawlspace. These soil coverings need to be properly installed to be effective. The seams should overlap at least a foot and be sealed with appropriate tape.

How do you seal a crawl space with a dirt floor?



Crawl space encapsulation.



Dirt floors allow moist air and water to enter the crawl space. You need to hold back this moisture. And the best way of doing this is by encapsulating the crawl space. It involves laying down a 20-mil polyethylene plastic vapor barrier over the crawl space floor and walls.

What are the cons of encapsulating a crawl space?

Cons of Crawl Space Encapsulation

  • Upfront Investment. According to Home Advisor, the average homeowner can expect to pay $5,500 to install this system. …
  • Cost of Foundation Wall Insulation. …
  • Additional Maintenance. …
  • Might Need To Upgrade Your HVAC System.


Can mold grow in encapsulated crawl space?

Traditional crawl spaces are a leading source of mold in homes which causes poor indoor air quality, and can be linked to asthma, allergies, and health issues. Without encapsulation, moisture, odors, mold spores, and pests can enter your home.

Why should you not encapsulate a crawl space?



An un-encapsulated crawl space can introduce mold, mildew, and other contaminants into your living space. Contaminated air does not only make your indoor space uncomfortable to stay in but could also be harmful to your health.

Should a crawl space be sealed or vented?

Because much of the air you breathe in your home comes directly from your crawl space, most contractors today agree that the crawl space should be treated as part of your living area—in other words, it should be sealed, insulated and kept free of moisture.

Should a crawl space have a vapor barrier?

Yes. You need a vapor barrier in your crawl space. What’s more, a moisture barrier is the minimum amount of protection that you should have in your crawl space. A vapor barrier helps you to avoid expensive repairs.

Should crawl space vents be closed in the winter?

When temperatures drop below the freezing point, water pipes in the crawl space are bound to freeze if the vents remain open. It’s a good practice to close off the vents in winter. Doing so prevents the dry, cold winter air from freezing the pipes inside the crawl space.