Encapsulated Vs Sealed Crawl Space: Weighing The Pros & Cons Of Each

Creepy crawl spaces probably win the prize for your home's least inviting area. In general, they're easy to avoid, and if they're out of sight, they're out of mind. Yet, ignoring that unsavory spot can be a big mistake. Crawl spaces are the source of many serious concerns for homeowners; it could be affecting your home's humidity, but there are more insidious difficulties tied up with these oft-neglected subterranean spots. Poor energy efficiency, pest infestations, diminished air quality, and structural damage can stem from problems with your crawl space. If this forgotten cave is the source of any of these issues, you might choose to either seal or encapsulate it.

Frankly, these two upgrades are awfully similar, enough so that some professionals consider their names interchangeable. Both processes include sealing all vents and installing a waterproof vapor barrier, a smart step toward waterproofing your basement. The pros of the two projects are keeping moisture and pests out as well as improving your home's insulation. Luckily, the cons can help you sort out which project is best for your home.

The differences between encapsulating and sealing a crawl space don't add up to a long list. What sets encapsulation apart from sealing is effectiveness. And, of course, a more effective method comes with a higher cost. Hiring professionals is typically a must for encapsulation. Plus, it requires constantly running a costly dehumidifier once the project is finished, and the machinery tends to need frequent replacement.

Yet, your property may have needs that make encapsulating the crawl space the best choice. High humidity and standing water are the top reasons to opt for encapsulation, as it offers the strongest seal and highest-quality materials. If correctly installed, the result of all this hard work is a completely moisture-free space.

If your budget is tight, you don't have a serious moisture problem, and your main hope from the project is better insulation, sealing your crawl space should do the trick. Another benefit of sealing a crawl space is that–with a very strong set of skills and experience–you can take on this upgrade yourself. If you're wondering if sealing or encapsulating your crawl space is smart to DIY, keep in mind that this process is much more challenging than most people are ready to take on.