Dirt floor crawlspaces, by their very nature, serve as breeding grounds for mold. Mold colonies thrive in soil, and when that soil is confined by foundation walls yet remains exposed beneath your home or a section thereof, you're inevitably faced with a mold conundrum.
In regions where full basements couldn't be excavated or when budget constraints loomed, builders often left behind a trail of exposed ledge, boulders, and, of course, earth. Sometimes this subterranean landscape lurks just a couple of feet beneath your floors, while in other instances, it plunges as deep as six feet. The proximity of this earth to your living spaces directly correlates with the likelihood of encountering visible and olfactory evidence of mold infestation within your abode.
Moisture in the soil beneath your home migrates upward, infiltrating your floors, leading to the telltale signs of cupped hardwood or musty-smelling carpets. Mold spores residing in the earth naturally become airborne, alighting on damp wooden surfaces, like the underside of your family room's floor. Should the conditions be ripe for these spores to germinate and flourish, you're likely to detect that unmistakable mustiness or experience an overall damp ambiance in your living quarters.
Addressing dirt floor crawlspaces requires decisive action, such as permanently sealing the earth with a layer of concrete or a less enduring plastic barrier, typically handled by professionals. Attempting to "dry out" such a space with ventilation or dehumidification proves futile, given the sheer surface area and the constant moisture emanating from the soil. Employing a dehumidifier not only strains your electricity bill but also stirs up mold on the earth's surface, launching spores into the air – a scenario best avoided.
By sealing off the crawlspace's dirt floor, you effectively eliminate a major moisture source. Nonetheless, ongoing dehumidification remains necessary to maintain a low relative humidity. It's essential to remember, though, that moisture removal alone doesn't eradicate the mold infestation.
If you're grappling with a mold dilemma in your crawlspace or need expert assistance in handling mold-related issues, reach out to us at Building Performance Solution! We're here to provide effective solutions and restore your peace of mind.