A crawl space is a narrow space that is unoccupied and unfinished in a home. It serves as a buffer between the first floor of the house and the ground. It’s about 3.5 feet from top to bottom, so it’s just enough for someone to crawl through, hence the term “crawl space”. As a buffer, it protects the home’s inhabitants from dampness in the ground.
The problem with crawl spaces is that, while they protect the rest of the home above from ground moisture, they also tend to harbor all that moisture. Moisture is bad news for your home if it stays long enough.
Why Moisture Stays in a Crawl Space
There are different reasons that lead to excessive moisture or moisture that won’t go away in a crawl space. The most common culprit is poor waterproofing that fails to protect the foundation of the home from moisture penetration. It’s also possible for the water to come from a broken pipe in your plumbing system.
However, some causes are beyond the homeowner’s control. For example, if your home is built in an area that’s prone to flooding or if unusually strong rains have saturated the ground. Condensation is another source of the problem.
What Happens When Moisture Stays in a Crawl Space?
You might think that moisture in your crawl space doesn’t deserve your attention as long as it stays in your crawl space. However, the problem is that moisture in your crawl space doesn’t limit its effects there.
Mold thrives where moisture and darkness are present. Mold is a threat to health as the air from the crawlspace rises and enters your home.
Your home has support beams, and they’re in your crawl space. Moisture can cause those beams to rot. If you have wood floors, they can be affected as well. Repairing rotted wood is often expensive.
How to Prevent Moisture Buildup in a Crawl Space
It’s advisable to contact home waterproofing experts to prevent water from entering your home, including the crawl spaces. Keeping water out is easier and better than taking it out.
However, if there is water in your crawl space already, you can invest in a sump pump to remove it. A crawl space dehumidifier can make the area even drier.
Prevent water penetration with home exterior renovations by a professional. Get in touch with Stonebridge Roofing, Waterproofing and Exteriors. Call us today at (904) 262-6636, or fill out this form.
There are many household problems that can be put off until later, but fixing a leaking roof is not one of them. In fact, it should always be prioritized no matter what the season. Here’s why.
1. Moisture Damage The attic, ceiling and roofing support structure are mostly made of wood, which happens to be vulnerable to damage caused by moisture. While these components are treated for resistance to high humidity levels, they can be damaged by water coming from a leaking roof. This can result in rot that can later compromise the roof’s structure. Further issues like water stains, blistering paint and swollen plaster can also happen if the moisture makes its way towards other parts of the house.
2. Mold Mold thrives in warm and humid places, away from direct sunlight. A leaking roof meets all three conditions, making it the perfect environment for mold growth. Mold causes more than just its tell-tale odor and hard-to-remove stains. Its spores can trigger like allergies and respiratory problems including rhinitis, asthma and nasal congestion. If it spreads throughout the attic, it may necessitate a premature roof replacement.
3. Electrical Hazard Water from a roof leak may find its way into electrical wiring, power outlets or appliances, which can lead to shorted wiring. If you notice water dripping into these parts of your home, don’t touch the appliance or try to unplug it. Instead, turn it off from the panel, and call a local electrician as soon as possible.
4. Slipping Hazard Water from a leaking roof can form puddles on the floor where you least expect it, making it a slipping hazard for anyone in your home. If you have carpeting that isn’t adhered to the floor, water can make its way under the carpets and make them slippery.
5. Damage to Attic Insulation Most types of attic insulation form clumps when in direct contact with water. When this happens, the insulation layer forms holes that would defeat its purpose. Poor insulation can facilitate thermal transfer and allow heat to easily pass between your indoor and outdoor spaces. This results in higher indoor heating and cooling requirements, meaning higher energy bills.
Stonebridge Roofing, Waterproofing and Exteriors is one of the leading roofing companies serving communities in Jacksonville. Give us a call at (904) 262-6636. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
The roof is undeniably a valuable aspect of any residential structure. It is easily noticed by people who drive by your home and is a key factor in boosting curb appeal. But there is more to your roof than meets the eye. This component is also largely responsible for protecting your interior belongings from harsh weather elements like hail or heat, and promoting energy efficiency throughout your home. That being said, it is important to remember to take care of your roofing system, especially when the summer season is around the corner. Here are some tips from professional roofing companies:
Regularly Inspect Your Roof
Carefully inspecting the condition of your roof is one of the most essential steps of roofing maintenance. You can start by looking for common signs of water damage. These include leaks and other moisture-related issues like mold and mildew growth. If you deem it safe, you may climb a ladder to check the condition of your shingles and confirm if they have cracks or are loose or missing.
Do Not Put Off Roof Repairs
Putting off needed roof repairs to save money is actually counterproductive. If the small issue on your roof is left untreated for a long time, it will only lead to bigger problems that can be more costly and frustrating in the long run. Ask local roofers to provide assistance to make sure that your roof is working in optimal condition.
Update Your Old Roof
The typical lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof is 15 to 30 years, and that depends on how well it was taken care of during its entire service life. Having a new roof installed is a big investment and opens up new opportunities for your home. For example, if you wish to update your roof to make it more modern and eco-friendly, you may opt for a standing seam metal roof.
Ready to give your home an upgrade? Stonebridge Roofing, Waterproofing and Exteriors is here to assist you. We offer professional and superior quality exterior remodeling services, such as roof replacement and maintenance, and waterproofing and concrete restoration to residential owners in Florida. Call our team at (904) 262-6636, or fill out our contact form to start a conversation with one of our specialists.
Are you planning on having your windows replaced? If you answered yes, then you should definitely try to learn as much as possible about the project. And, what better way to learn about it than directly asking window experts during a consultation for emergency roof repair? Here are some of the most important questions you should ask before your window replacement even starts.
Have you ever looked at a house and been in awe of its beautiful architectural appearance? Chances are the exterior features were responsible for making the great impression. The siding, or the wall cladding material, is a critical part of your home. It can make or break the character or visual impact of any property. This is why choosing the right siding profile is key to enhancing curb appeal. But selecting the right style requires some consideration.
