Mold Problems

[toodie]

When I first moved here I lived in a townhouse built on a slab and had also owned a house on a slab in the past, so I decided to buy one with a crawlspace this time, and sort of like it better because it's not so low to the ground.

The trick is, like everyone says here, to keep crawlspaces dry and have someone check it each quarter. I have moisture levels checked then, too, and luckily that's always a great report. And have a termite inspection at least once a year.

I did read about how attic fans can cause moisture from crawlspaces to be pulled up through the house and into the attic like someone here mentioned.

I remember seeing a news clip a few years ago about a lady who lived alone and never really looked up in her attic. They showed how it had mold growth up there that she wasn't aware of. It was all over the place! So be sure to check out your attics and crawlspaces, especially if you use an attic fan.
best,
toodie

[J. Trent Hicks]

There are a number of opinions concerning this topic. Our climate is different and requires a basic understanding of the science involved to address these issues. A recent NCSU research project outlines simple, basic solutions to help maintain a health living environment for your family.

There are four primary ways that water enters a crawlspace: 1) from a plumbing leak, 2) from an appliance (like a condensate drain of an HVAC unit or a water heater leak), 3) from the soil beneath the crawlspace, and 4) from outside the foundation wall.

There are solutions to each of these water entry problems. Water, temperature, and a food source are required to support mold and mildew growth. If you can maintain the relative humidity in your crawlspace below 70%, mold and mildew cannot survive.

So, as part of your Home Maintenance Plan, periodically check to see that gutters and downspouts are free flowing with extensions to ensure that roof and ground "run off" is sloped away from the foundation, all plumbing supply lines and drain lines are dry and have not formed leaks, any appliances located inside the crawlspace have drain lines that are open and operational, and that there is a 100% moisture barrier covering the crawlspace dirt. Close and seal all foundation vents and install a $150 humidifier set at 50% humidity.

Once this is done, enjoy living in an area with four distinct seasons and lots of friendly people!

[weblackey]

Originally Posted by J. Trent Hicks

...100% moisture barrier covering the crawlspace dirt.

Does this mean covering the soil with plastic sheeting and sealing the edges to the outer wall with some kind of tape?