Water in a crawl space is a sign that something is wrong. Humidity trapped within corners or underneath floorboards will become a breeding ground for different bacteria that will lead to mold, rot, and mildew. All of these things will create an awful aroma that will begin to permeate throughout a building, and create an unhealthy environment for those inside. If mold and mildew are allowed to build up, then the structural integrity may be at risk of being corroded away. Too much humidity in a crawl space will also corrode support beams and foundation, cause electrical short outs, create condensation, and promote insect infestations. Dehumidifying a crawl space and getting back to normal humidity levels will be necessary in preventing issues that can come from all of these side effects. Water may enter a home when the air inside the home is much cooler than the air outside, This may happen during hot summers when the air conditioning units are on frequently to cool down the building. Air conditioning will create moisture beneath the floorboards and air ducts of a structure, allowing air to become trapped under the floorboards. Ground water can seep up through the soil beneath a structure and begin to create puddles. The humidity of a climate can greatly affect the amount of humidity in a crawlspace. To prevent this, most humid climates will utilize non vented crawl spaces to keep it away from outside air. And the humidity level may fluctuate depending on the region and time of year it is. Water during rain and/or snow storms may creep its way beneath your foundation if the gutters and downspouts are not functioning properly. Water in your crawlspace may also indicate that there is a crack or opening within some of your insulation or vapor barrier. Even just a little bit of standing water and moisture can create a bad smell, so having a professional come and help regulate the humidity level will be very important in stopping any issues early on.
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