What You Need to Know About DIY Crawl Space Installation
It's no secret that crawl spaces are one of the most overlooked parts of a home. Crawl space installation is often put off for years, until it becomes an emergency situation.
A DIY crawl space is a cost-effective way to install your own crawl space and avoid paying a professional to do it for you. Read on to learn some of our best tips about what you need to know about DIY-ing your crawl space installation.
Do Your Research
Like any DIY home improvement, the first thing you need to do is research what it will take for your do your own crawl space encapsulation or renovation.
Not only will you want to know how much time and money the project is going to take, but also if there are any major risks involved with doing a DIY installation. YouTube is a great resource for learning the basics of crawl space repair.
Complete a Survey of Your Crawl Space
Next, it's important to complete a full survey of your crawl space in order to buy all of your supplies and materials for your unique installation. This includes:
Measure your crawl space's square dimensions
Identify any moisture problems or compromised areas in your flooring and framing
Count how many posts you are going to need to cover in your crawl space, including by the width and depth of each wall
Find the Right Crawl Space Products
Crawl Space Insulation
Finding the type of insulation you're going to need is a critical step in your crawl space installation. Crawl spaces are often cooler than other areas in the home, so you'll want to use a high-quality insulation material that will keep heat from escaping through your flooring and framing as well as seal out any moisture problems.
Crawl Space Polyethylene Liner & Sealing
If your crawl space floor is a dirt or concrete surface, then it will require protection. You can install a polyethylene underlayment in order to protect this area from moisture issues that might arise during installation as well as provide an area to walk on.
Crawl space installation will also require you to seal all seams and joints so that any moisture problems can be prevented.
Crawl Space Ventilation
Crawl spaces should have ventilation, so install an exhaust fan and a supply vent before you ever cover up your crawl space!
You don't want all that heat transferring into your Southeastern home during summer months as well as accumulated moisture during winter. Crawl spaces should have a minimum of one square foot of vent area for every 300 cubic feet, so make sure to calculate your crawl space size prior to ordering.
Other miscellaneous crawl space products you may need include: dehumidifier or pump, joint compound, waterproof coatings or sealants, some scrap lumber, and a drill with bits and screws.
Crawl space installation can be a daunting task, but with these tips, you will be able to get off to a great start with your encapsulation project. Of course, if your project turns into too much of a hassle, make sure to contact your local crawl space repair professionals for help.
And for quality wholesale crawl space products for your DIY crawl space project, The Crawlspace Supply Company is here to help!