A crawlspace is insulated due to the extreme winter temperatures. So the walls and ceiling of the crawlspace is entirely insulated. Fiberglass batts with wood lath are used for support. New ventilations are cut as required. The subfloor is sealed and the holes for electricity wires, plumbing and HVAC ducts are sealed with spray foam insulation. Plumbing pipes and HVAC are enclosed and protected from freezing temperatures and to conserve energy. Even the rim-joists are cell- sprayed. The foundation walls are insulated with glue rigid foam insulation. To avoid wetness on the floor a vapor barrier is used to cover the ground. Moisture causes condensation in the crawlspace. And a sump pump eliminates the moisture. Due to moisture, molds can grow and give a musty odor which reaches your living. So the HVAC system of your house can be linked to your crawlspace to circulate the warm air under your floors.
The Disadvantages Of Crawlspace Insulation:
Crawlspace is the major source of a numerous health and safety problems. It becomes a habitat for rodents, birds and insects. Poor ventilation can lead to molds. There are signs that you need to replace your crawlspace insulation like:
- Huge electricity bills
- Constant change in inside temperatures of house
- Pests in the crawlspace
- Very old insulation materials
If the area is not sprayed properly with foam insulation than it causes molds. The spray foam insulation should be thick enough to cover all air leaks. Spray foams exposure is even dangerous to your health and the environment. It causes lung damage asthma, respiratory and even skin and eye irritation. So a suggestion of rat slab will be a right choice.
A rat slab is a concrete poured upon the dirt floor of your crawlspace. Homes
built on slabs helps prevent flooding and leakages. It creates a healthy
environment. Slabs often eliminate the need for extra steps because they are
floor touched.
- A slab keeps rodents out of crawlspace
- Keeps away other wood damaging organisms
- Keeps the crawlspace cleaner and easy to move around
- The concrete slab is very cost-effective
- The rat slab is better for moist climates. it prevents mold growth in the
house - It is fast to construct
- It is less subjected to pests and vermin
- It is more energy efficient
- It is strong and lasts for longer.