Close the vents and let a heavy-duty vapor barrier keep moisture, mold and radon out of the living space
Dirt crawlspaces are never-ending sources of moisture. Even if the dirt’s surface is dry, digging down a little bit reveals moist earth. Moisture ruins houses by providing a hospitable environment for the fungi, mold and insects that destroy wood framing. Moisture in a crawlspace affects not only the floor system directly above it but also the entire house.
[To read more of Larry Janesky’s article from the February/March 2003 issue of Fine Hombuilding, click the link below.]
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One Comment
This answers several of my questions except where to insulate the space. The image shows batt insulation under the floor; I've read in other articles that this approach should be avoided. When properly sealed, is this insulation method acceptable?
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