No one likes dealing with problems in their home. But when you have a crawl space, you must be extra vigilant to avoid any issues. With regular maintenance and prompt attention to any problems that may arise, you can keep your crawl space in tip-top shape and avoid any serious issues down the road. Sometimes, that involves calling in a professional.
Here’s when you should schedule crawl space inspections to keep your home in the best condition possible.
Best Time to Schedule an Inspection
When it comes to scheduling a crawl space inspection, timing is everything. The best time to schedule an inspection is typically in the spring or fall, when the weather is milder and there is less of a chance for flooding. However, if you live in an area with a lot of rainfall or snowmelt, you may need to schedule more frequent inspections.
If this is the first time you have had your crawl space inspected, or if it has been more than a year since your last inspection, it is always best to be on the side of caution and schedule an examination as soon as possible.
In some cases, you may be able to inspect your crawl space yourself. However, if you are uncomfortable doing so or notice any signs of damage, it is always best to call in a crawl space professional to identify potential problems and recommend the best course of action.
Water and Electric Bills are Adding Up
If you’re noticing that your water and electric bills are gradually increasing, your crawl space needs attention. Ignoring a problem in your crawl space can lead to higher utility bills in the long run.
Many common crawl space issues can cause water or moisture damage. And when water damage occurs, it’s not just the bill for repairs that will add up—you’ll also see an increase in your utility bills. That’s because water damage can lead to mold growth, and mold requires extra humidity to thrive.
So, if you’re seeing a steady increase in your water and electric bills, it’s a good idea to have your crawl space inspected by a professional. They can identify any problems and help you get them fixed before they cause further damage—and drive up your utility bills even more.
Foul Odor Throughout Your Home
One problem that may present itself is foul odors throughout your home. Several things, including mold growth, animal infestations, or sewage leaks, could cause this. If you notice a persistent bad smell in your home, you must have your crawl space inspected as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem could lead to further damage and health problems for you and your family.
Low Water Pressure
If you notice a drop in your water pressure, or puddles and moisture under your home, there’s a good chance it’s related to something with your crawl space. Common crawl space issues such as wet or damp wood will cause moisture damage, leading to mold growth and lower water pressure. Having your crawl space inspected by a professional can help identify any problems and prevent further damage.
Infestation of Pests and Rodents
An unfortunate problem that your crawl space may have is an infestation of pests and rodents. This can be a complex problem to solve, as it will take time to identify the source of the infestation. That’s why an inspection by an experienced professional is essential. They will be able to discover where the pests are getting into your home and develop a treatment plan for eliminating them. It can take several weeks (or even months) for any pests that are taken out of their source to die off, so you will want to be diligent in continuing with the plan for monitoring and treating.
Inspect Your Crawl Space With a Professional
Homeowners should schedule an inspection of their crawl space with a professional every few years, or more often if they notice any problems. A professional can help identify potential issues and offer solutions to maintain your crawl space health.
During an inspection, a professional will check for any signs of water damage, mold growth, or pests. They will also look for cracks or holes in the foundation that could allow water or pests into the crawl space. If any problems are found, the professional can provide repairs or treatments to solve the problem.
Scheduling an inspection of your crawl space is an excellent way to prevent future problems and ensure that your home is in good condition. Don’t hesitate to call crawlspace doctor if you think something might be wrong with your crawl space.