Mold, Bugs and Pests in Your Crawl Space

Bleach alone is not a long-term solution for crawl space mold. Wiping away visible growth does not correct the humidity, water intrusion or condensation that let mold develop. Bleach may also be ineffective on porous materials like wood. For lasting results, the source of excess moisture needs to be identified and addressed. 

Crawl space encapsulation can help make the space drier, cleaner and less appealing to some pests, but it isn’t a substitute for pest control or rodent exclusion. Sealing vents and other openings may cut down on some entry points, while active termites, rodents or other infestations should be evaluated and treated by an appropriate pest-control professional. 

Crawl space mold treatment costs vary based on the size of the space, the extent of the mold growth, accessibility and the moisture problem driving it. Encapsulation, drainage or humidity control may also be recommended to help prevent mold from returning. Blackburn Foundation Repair provides free crawl space inspections in Sioux Falls and a written estimate for recommended solutions. 

Crawl space mold treatment generally addresses mold on affected surfaces along with the moisture conditions driving its growth. Professional mold remediation is a more specialized process that may involve containment, removal of contaminated materials and other procedures. The right approach depends on the extent of the mold and the conditions in your crawl space. 

It depends on the problem, and sometimes you may need both. An exterminator can diagnose and treat an active pest infestation, while a crawl space repair company addresses moisture, humidity and other conditions that may be leaving the space more inviting. Correcting those underlying conditions can be an important part of preventing recurring problems. 

Not always, but excess moisture can make a crawl space more attractive to certain insects and pests. High humidity, damp wood, standing water and wet insulation can make conditions favorable for pests. An inspection can help determine whether moisture, entry points or other crawl space conditions are driving the activity.

Common signs of crawl space mold are musty odors, fuzzy or stained growth on wood and other surfaces, and ongoing dampness or high humidity. Mold can appear in many colors, including white, gray, green or black. Color alone cannot tell you the type of mold or whether it poses a health risk. 

Crawl space mold can be a concern, especially for people who are sensitive to mold. Mold exposure may cause allergic reactions or bother the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs. Because air can rise from your crawl space into your home, it’s important to address both the mold and the moisture conditions allowing it to grow.