Founder | BPI® Energy Auditor Certified Professional
There’s a raging debate over whether encapsulating your crawl space will help prevent bugs and rodents from getting into your home. Some people swear by it, while others say it doesn’t make much difference.
So, what’s the truth?
This article will explore whether an encapsulated crawl space will help eliminate your bug and rodent problems. We’ll also go over some of the pros and cons of encapsulation so you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s right for you.
Does an Encapsulated Crawl Space Deter Bugs and Rodents?
An encapsulated crawl space will deter bugs and rodents but will not completely stop them. For example, if there are cracks or holes in your floor, they will still be able to get into your home. However, encapsulation will make it much harder for them to get in and also easier to spot intruders.
What Is Encapsulation and Its Role in Pest Prevention?
Encapsulation is sealing off your crawl space so that it’s completely enclosed. Homeowners can do this with various materials, but polyethylene sheets and spray foam insulation are the most common.
Once your crawl space is encapsulated, bugs and rodents will have a much harder time getting in. They’ll also be easier to spot if they do manage to get in, as there will be nowhere for them to hide.
I have a job requiring me to go into many homes, and I have seen firsthand how effectively encapsulation can deter bugs and rodents. I rarely see any evidence of pests in homes with an encapsulated crawl space.
However, encapsulation may not be the best way to prevent bugs and rodents in your home. They can still come in through ducts and other holes, so it’s essential to seal any potential entry points. Regardless, encapsulation is a good option if you’re looking for an extra layer of protection.
How Does Encapsulation Work
Encapsulation is designed to keep moisture away from your home’s foundation. It seals the crawl space, so outside air can’t get in.
This characteristic is important because moisture is one of the main attractions for bugs and rodents. And you don’t have to worry about wood rot and other expensive water damage issues.
If your crawl space is encapsulated, it will be much harder for bugs and rodents to get in. They’ll still be able to smell the moisture, but they won’t be able to reach it, which will deter most of them from even getting into your home.
There are two main types of encapsulation—partial and complete.
Partial encapsulation is when you seal off the crawl space but leave some vents open. Complete encapsulation is when you completely seal the crawl space so that no air can get in or out.
Complete encapsulation is the more effective option, but it’s also more expensive. If you’re on a tight budget, partial encapsulation can still work.
The Pros and Cons of Encapsulation
There are both advantages and drawbacks to encapsulating your crawl space.
Let’s take a look at some of the main ones:
Pro: Deterring Bugs and Rodents
As we’ve seen, encapsulation will make it much harder for bugs and rodents to get into your home. If you’re struggling with pests, this can be a huge relief. Things like mice and cockroaches are not only annoying, but they can also carry diseases. So getting rid of them is beneficial for your peace of mind and also good for your health.
Pro: Protecting Your Home from Moisture
Encapsulation will also help to protect your home from moisture. This is important because excess moisture can lead to various problems, such as mold growth and wood rot. So encapsulation is a good option if you’re worried about moisture damage.
Pro: You Will Save Money on Energy Bills
One of the main benefits of encapsulation is that it will save you money on your energy bills. This savings is because sealing the crawl space will make your home more energy efficient. In fact, you could see savings of up to 20% on your heating and cooling costs.
Con: It’s Not Fool-Proof
As we mentioned, encapsulation will not completely stop bugs and rodents from entering your home. They can still get in through ducts and other openings. So if you’re worried about pests, you’ll still need to take additional precautions, such as sealing up any potential entry points.
Con: It’s Expensive
Another downside of an encapsulated crawl space is that it can be expensive. The cost will depend on the size of your space and the type of encapsulation you choose. But in general, you can expect to pay several thousand dollars for a quality job.
How To Encapsulate Your Crawl Space
If you’ve decided that you want to encapsulate your crawl space, there are a few things you need to do. First, you must choose the type of system you want—partial or complete encapsulation.
Once you’ve chosen a system, you need to install it. Again, this is best done by a professional, as it can be pretty challenging to do yourself if you are new to DIY insulation.
Here’s a quick guide on how to encapsulate your crawl space:
1.) Clean the Floor
The first step is to clean the floor of your crawl space. This process includes removing any debris, like leaves and dirt. You should also remove any insulation that’s on the floor.
The idea is to remove objects and other things that could break the barrier when stepped on. You might also want to fix protruding nails to avoid vapor barrier damage.
2.) Install a Vapor Barrier
Once the floor is clean, you need to install a vapor barrier. This application will prevent moisture from coming up through the floor and into your home. There are a few different vapor barriers, so choose one that’s right for your needs.
3.) Install Insulation
The next step is to install insulation, which will help to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. You’ll want to use the appropriate insulation on the outer walls to achieve this, so make sure to consult with a professional.
4.) Seal Any Gaps
The final step is to seal any gaps or openings, including cracks in the foundation and openings around ducts and pipes. Closing these gaps will help to prevent pests and moisture from getting into your home.
When finished, your crawl space should be entirely encapsulated. This state will deter bugs and rodents, protect your home from moisture, and save money on energy bills.
Who Should Encapsulate Their Crawl Space?
An encapsulated crawl space is definitely worth considering if you’re struggling with pests or moisture damage. Of course, it’s not a perfect solution, but it can make a big difference.
We have seen many people succeed with encapsulation, but it’s not suitable for everyone. For example, if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to consider other options first. And if you’re unsure whether it will work for your home, it’s always best to consult a professional before making a decision.
In the end, deciding whether to an encapsulated crawl space is worth it is up to you. But if you’re struggling with pests or moisture damage, it’s certainly something to considering.
Best Ways To Prevent Bugs and Rodents
This article wouldn’t be complete without mentioning some of the best pest prevention strategies for your home.
Here are a few things you can do:
Seal Up Any Potential Entry Points
One of the most effective ways to keep pests out is to seal any potential entry points, including cracks in your foundation, gaps around doors and windows, and holes in your walls. By sealing these openings, you can make it much harder for bugs and rodents to get in.
Keep Your Home Clean
Another good way to prevent pests is to keep your home clean. Many critters are attracted to food, so they’ll be more likely to come into your home if there’s food around. So make sure to keep your counters clean and your floors free of crumbs.
Use Pest Control Products
There are also a variety of pest control products that can help keep bugs and rodents away. Things like mouse traps and cockroach bait can be very effective at deterring pests. Just follow the directions carefully and store these products out of reach of children and pets.
Call a Pest Control Professional
If you’re struggling to get rid of pests, you might consider calling a pest control professional. These experts can help identify the problem and devise a plan to eliminate the pests. In some cases, they may even be able to help you prevent future infestations.
How Much Does an Encapsulated Crawl Space Cost?
The encapsulation cost can vary depending on a few factors, such as the size of your crawl space and the type of materials you use. But in general, you can expect to pay around $1,500-$3,000 for a typical encapsulation job.
This estimate includes the cost of materials and labor. If you’re doing the work yourself, you can obviously save a lot. But it’s important to note that an encapsulated crawl space is not a simple DIY project. If you’re not experienced in this type of work, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
The best way to get a good deal is to compare prices from multiple contractors. Get at least three estimates, and ask about discounts that might be available.
Is An Encapsulated Crawl Space Worth It?
Encapsulation is not a perfect solution, but it can be worth it for some people. If you’re struggling with pests or moisture damage, an encapsulated crawl space can help to solve these problems. It’s also an excellent way to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Of course, an encapsulated crawl space is not suitable for everyone. It’s a significant investment, so you must weigh the costs and benefits before deciding. If you’re not sure whether an encapsulated crawl space is ideal for you, it’s always best to consult with a professional.
Final Thoughts
Encapsulating your crawl space is a big decision. But if you’re struggling with pests or moisture damage, it’s worth considering.
There are several additional ways to prevent bugs and rodents from entering your home that are relatively simple and inexpensive. If you’re having trouble getting rid of pests, consider calling a pest control professional for help.