When Your Crawl Space is a Health Hazard
Crawl spaces go largely unchecked for long periods of time. This makes them perfect getaways for pests and rodents and a host of other hazards that have gone unnoticed.
When our system design specialists do a thorough inspection of your crawl space, they come prepared knowing that they may be the first human to enter the space in a while. If you see what our crews encounter on a regular basis, you’ll see why your filthy, wet crawl space could be the reason why you’re getting sick . . . a lot. Here are some of the major hazards in your crawl space and the possible impact on your health.
Mold
Where there’s water and any kind of organic material, there will be mold. Mold and mildew will thrive in your moist crawl space where it is undisturbed and has an endless supply of organic material to feed on. Mold spores rarely stay put but instead travel through your vents and into your home. This can cause or worsen respiratory ailments like asthma. In more serious cases, certain types of mold can even cause severe illness in infants.
Pests
Dark, undisturbed spaces attract rodents which burrow under your home and nest in your crawl space. Rats and mice carry several diseases and pathogens from their droppings and urine can spread to your family’s living space above ground via your HVAC system. All of this diminishes the air quality of your home over time.
Filthy, Standing Water
A dirt crawl space is particularly susceptible to water seepage and is often the first place to be impacted by a blown sewage pipe or flood. When this water is left undisturbed, it becomes a breeding ground for microbes. There is also a risk of electrocution should you have improper wiring down there. Your best bet is to call a specialist to thoroughly inspect your crawl space rather than attempt it yourself.
These are just three of the main hazards you could encounter in your crawl space. In many ways your crawl space is the real heart of your home and keeping it dry and clean could relieve some of the health issues your family’s experiencing.
We know crawl spaces and would be happy to get in there and inspect your home for free.
