Every year your electric bill creeps higher and higher, no matter what you do! You changed your air conditioning settings, make sure to turn off lights, and even installed energy-efficient windows.
A recent survey found that the average American household spends about $110.00 a month on electricity. These days, getting that number down is one of your biggest goals!
But, where else can you increase the energy efficiency of your home? Have you considered your crawl space?
Keep reading to learn all about crawl space encapsulation vs vapor barrier and which one is best for your home.
What Is a Vapor Barrier?
The simpler version of insulation for your crawl space is adding a plastic barrier called a vapor barrier. These plastic sheets won’t vaporize your electricity bill. But, because they reduce the moisture in the crawl space, it keeps your home at a more stable and comfortable temperature.
Also, because it reduces moisture, a vapor barrier also helps protect your home from mold and mildew growing in the damp areas of the home. This is most helpful for anyone who has allergies to mold spores or other respiratory conditions.
What Is Crawl Space Encapsulation?
When you encapsulate your crawl space area, you give it an airtight and waterproof seal. This is important for homes in wet climates or where crawlspace leaks happen often.
Before you install your encapsulation barriers, make sure to do a thorough crawl space cleaning. You don’t want to seal mold or debris into the corners of your crawl space.
Comparing Crawl Space Encapsulation vs Vapor Barrier
A recent survey found that about 15% of American homes have a crawl space of some kind.
A crawl space barrier is a decent protection for your crawl space. But, encapsulation takes that protection and energy efficiency to a new level!
If you want to install the crawl space protection yourself, you’ll want to go for the vapor barrier. A team of trained professionals should encapsulate your crawl space to make sure everything is airtight and ready to go.
Another major factor of comparison is the price. If you’re on a tight budget, the vapor barrier is the better option. But, if you can spring for the encapsulation, you will get better protection and better energy efficiency.
You Already Know How To Walk… Let Us Crawl!
No matter what kind of insulation you choose for the crawl space under your house. It is sure to help more than having no insulation at all!
Be sure you consider which option works best for you and your home though. You don’t want to spend double to have it removed and replaced.
We hope you enjoyed reading this article and that you learned about crawl space encapsulation vs vapor barrier. If you have any questions about this article, or if you’re in need of crawl space cleaning services, contact us today!