Understanding the Stack Effect | Crawl Space Waterproofing | Charlotte NC

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CRAWL SPACE WITH A CONCRETE FLOOR sealtechwaterproofing.com


CRAWL SPACES Many homes have crawl spaces that are used as half-basements. Indeed, although crawl spaces hold many installations such as plumbing lines, wiring, and HVAC ducts, they can be used as living spaces or storage rooms.


The use of concrete for crawl spaces may seem reasonable, but this option is controversial in many cases. Of course, concrete slabs work well when they are in garages and basements. However, some experts think that concrete floors do not contribute to air quality.


RETROFIT JOBS In the first instance, pouring the concrete as part of a retrofit job can be a problem, because crawl spaces have limited space, making it hard to work. For this reason, concrete floors are more suitable for new constructions. On the other hand, when the soil is contaminated, it is necessary to install a liner.


DAMPNESS Even though concrete floors are more attractive, they contain a large amount of water that can be entrapped within the floors and walls. This means that crawl spaces are too small and tight for installing concrete floors since the drying slab creates dampness within the home, and also disperses dust into the air when scraped.


LINER INSTEAD OF CONCRETE When it comes to sealing a crawl space, liners are used to cover the floor and the foundation walls. Liners are important elements in basement waterproofing and crawl space repair. They are also used to encapsulate crawl spaces and create environments that can be controlled. Crawl space waterproofing and encapsulation is the best way to make your crawl space a healthier area. In the same way, vapor barrier liners retard certain gases that come up through the earth.


If the soil has sharp rocks, vapor barrier liners must be stronger and more heavy-duty. It is important to choose tested liners according to ASTM E 1745 test parameters. Also, it is vital to take into account the perm rating because the lower the grade, the less permeable the material is. On the other hand, if you are using the crawlspace as a storage room, the best option is to get thick liners.


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