Maintaining the health of your home’s crawl space is vital for the overall well-being of your property. Choosing the right crawl space repair contractor can make the difference between a quick fix and a homeowner’s nightmare.
To ensure you make an informed decision, it’s important to ask the right questions. In this article, we’ll outline key questions to pose when interviewing a crawl space repair contractor, helping you assess their expertise and reliability.
1. What causes mold in my crawl space and how do I prevent it?
Mold requires moisture to thrive, and crawl spaces are susceptible to damp conditions. How and why your space is trapping moisture is unique to each home.
Make sure you ask your contractor to tell you the factors that have influenced mold in your home and the most effective ways for prevention.
2. Should I open my crawl space vents or not?
Many homeowners frequently ask about crawl space vents. The decision to open or close crawl space vents depends on the climate and specific conditions in your region.
A local contractor should be able to describe the local climate conditions and provide recommendations on when to open or close your vents.
3. How often should I change my vapor barrier?
A professional assessment should include evaluating the condition of your vapor barrier to determine if a replacement is necessary.
When correctly installed, a vapor barrier can have a lifespan of twenty years or longer.
The frequency of changing a vapor barrier in your crawl space depends on various factors such as the type of material used, the quality of the installation, and the specific conditions in your crawl space.
4. What thickness of vapor barrier do you use?
In general, vapor barriers for crawl spaces are commonly available in thicknesses ranging from 6 to 20 mils.
A reliable contractor should know the local building codes and regulations to see if there are specific requirements for vapor barrier thickness in your area.
They should also be able to recommend what works well in your climate and what fits in your budget.
5. Is a drainage system important?
Proper drainage helps manage water effectively, preventing moisture-related issues that can lead to a range of problems.
A reputable contractor should agree that a drainage system is important, explain why your crawl space is or is not draining properly, recommend one or more solutions for your specific home, and explain to you the installation requirements of each option.
6. Why are my floors sagging?
Asking this question can show you the understanding and education level of the contractor. Floor sagging can occur for various reasons.
It may result from the natural settling of your property or building materials over time.
Alternatively, it could indicate damage caused by factors such as water leaks or pest infestations like termites.
In some cases, plain old wear and tear can also be a cause. So, it is necessary to consult your contractor to see what is causing your floors to sag and how to prevent this occurrence.
7. Is fiberglass insulation in a crawlspace a good idea?
Using fiberglass insulation in a crawl space can be a suitable option under certain conditions, but it’s not always the best option.
Your contractor should be able to consider the specific circumstances and potential challenges with fiberglass in your crawl space to give you the best solution.
8. What is a main beam?
The main or center beam is a substantial wooden beam that extends the length of your home.
It is supported by posts, typically constructed from concrete or steel.
This structural element is a fundamental part of the building’s framework, providing essential support for the entire structure.
9. What is a sill plate?
Sill plates act as a boundary between masonry and wood framing, resting directly on top of the stem wall.
The wood used for sill plates is typically treated to protect against termite infestation.
Your contractor will be able to tell you whether a sill plate is absolutely necessary for your crawl space.
10. Do cracks in my walls mean my house is settling?
A contractor should provide a thorough and complete assessment of your space. During their investigation, they should be able to determine the cause of any cracks in your walls.
If they seem unsure of the cause of the cracks or dismiss them completely, you may want a second opinion.
Not all wall cracks automatically signify settlement, but understanding the different types of cracks and their underlying causes is crucial for proper assessment.
11. What is the smell coming from my crawl space?
Crawl spaces with dirt floors can experience high humidity levels, leading to mold growth in wooden components such as floor joists.
While the mold may not always have a distinct odor, the decaying wood it causes can result in an unpleasant mildew smell.
A reliable contractor can provide a thorough assessment and recommend appropriate solutions based on the specific conditions of your crawl space.
12. Do I need a dehumidifier?
Crawl spaces can accumulate moisture due to factors like condensation from ductwork, ground moisture evaporation, high outdoor humidity, and others.
Before purchasing a dehumidifier, it’s advisable to measure the relative humidity levels in your home using a hygrometer.
Your contractor assessment should include this service. This can be a good way to see if your contractor is willing to help you save money on things you don’t really need.
13. Do I need to treat the mold?
Every contractor will tell you to treat mold as soon as possible. However, a precise inspection will give you details and your contractor will be able to determine the best solution.
You want to have a contractor who is clear in communicating without fear-mongering or using scare tactics to get you to sign with them.
14. Is there any termite damage?
Termites chew through the wood to extract cellulose, leaving behind long grooves that can create a maze-like pattern within your walls or resemble a honeycomb structure.
Your contractor should be able to easily identify any termite damage in your crawl space.
Always make sure you check with your contractor that your crawl space is termite-free.
Choose a Reliable Crawl Space Repair Contractor
Asking these essential questions when interviewing a crawl space repair contractor allows you to make an informed decision. Choose a contractor who will take the time to talk to you, patiently answers your questions, and is a clear communicator. Taking the time to choose a foundation repair company you’re comfortable with ensures that your home receives quality and reliable repairs.
