How to Seal a Crawl Space

There are several ways you can insulate or seal crawl space openings. A crawl space is essentially a space in your home where you will find a gap under the house. These crawl spaces are used to allow workers access to electricity, plumbing and heating. A crawl space can be a burden to a homeowner because they are not usually properly sealed or insulated. What this means is that you are inefficiently heating or cooling your home. These crawl spaces also can allow insects an easy access point to infest your home. This article will show you how to seal crawl space areas regardless if they are inside or outside; or made out of gravel or concrete.

Step 1: Locate Potential Leaks

Before you can even think about using expanding spray foam to seal the gravel crawl space you need to locate where leaks may be present. Locate the access point to the crawl space. Take a close look inside and outside of the crawl space. Look for any holes or other entrances. You may have to physically enter the crawl space so take the flashlight with you.

Step 2: Sealing the Leaks

Take special notice of pipes, tubing and duct work. All of these things offer access for weather conditions as well as insects. Less obvious are the points in the crawl space where wires are threaded. Even these little holes are an issue. Seal all of these areas up with caulk and then further secure the area by using expandable foam. Use the same technique on the outside of the home. Any hole or crack is a threat from insects and the elements.

Step 3: Secure the Door

Many crawl spaces have one or more doors that are usually flimsy. If you are lucky enough to have a thick door, use weatherstripping around the edges on both sides. If the door is old or too flimsy, replace it with thicker wood or even metal. The doors are easy to build out of plywood and some hinges.

Step 4: Plastic Sheeting and Insulation

If your crawl space is soil or gravel, a layer of plastic sheeting is a must. The plastic will protect the home from moisture, burrowing animals and insects. This also helps to reduce chances of mold and mildew from forming since you are removing moisture and airflow. Drag your plastic sheet down to the crawl space and unroll it as best you can. Make sure the entire floor of the scrawl space is covered. You can keep the plastic in place by using heavy rocks, bricks or metal hooks. You can cut the plastic sheeting if you like but it is not necessary. With the plastic sheeting in place you can now measure the space and cut the insulation to match. You will need to cut the insulation in pieces. Assemble the pieces of insulation in the crawl space to further insulate the space from the elements and insects.