Let’s face it…there are many things that can cause a smell in your home. Thankfully, most of those smells are easily remedied through a good cleaning or removal of the source. What if the smell is still there after you have done all of that? Unfortunately, the smell could be coming from your crawlspace….don’t worry though-we can help diagnose and remedy the problem. Aqua-Guard can have your home smelling better in no time!
If Your Crawlspace is the Source of the Smell in your Home
If you have a persistent musty or foul smell in your home and cannot find the source, you need to check out your crawlspace. The stack effect is a scientific principle that causes the air from below to slowly but surely be pulled up through the vents into the upper floors of your home. Think of your house as a giant candlewick pulling up air to the top. Since as much as one-third of the air you breathe in your home can come from the crawlspace, it makes sense to check this area for the source of the stink. Put on some clothes that can get dirty and grab a flashlight. You will want to take a look around your crawlspace as best you can to see if this is the problem. For many, they find that the source of the stink is in fact the crawlspace.
Why Does it Stink?
There are several reasons that could cause a stink in your crawlspace. High humidity is one clue to look and feel for. In the past, vented crawlspaces were thought to be the key to keeping the area in good condition by allowing airflow to occur. We have since realized that vented crawlspaces allow warm air in (during warmer months) and cooler air in (during colder months). This constant battle of warm versus cold temperatures creates condensation which as you know is moisture. Moisture in a dark place is the perfect storm for mildew, mold, and fungus growth. Remember when we said you are breathing as much as one-third of air from your crawlspace? That air could be harmful to your health.
Water that seeps into your crawlspace from outside can be another cause for a bad smell in your home. Waterproofing the exterior of your home is the first step in treatment. Making sure that the grading of the land around is correct, that gutters are correctly diverting water, and repairing any cracks or leaks in the foundation are part of the waterproofing process.
Another possibility is that there is a leaking pipe in your crawlspace. If you do in fact have a sewage backup or leak you probably know it. The smell is horrible and it would not take long to notice. Contact a plumber as soon as possible if you suspect a sewage problem.
Outside Intruders
Because of the dark, damp conditions of most crawlspaces, animal and insect activity could be a cause of the smell. Mice, snakes, and other animals love the warm dark places and may have made a home in your crawlspaces. They also use the bathroom there and sometimes die themselves both of which would cause unfavorable odors.
Dust Mite droppings could be another cause for an “off” odor. These are microscopic arthropods that thrive on dead skin cells of humans and other creatures. They need only 50% humidity to survive and can easily multiply in your crawlspace. The mites themselves are not pleasant but a buildup of their droppings can cause serious health problems. In fact, dust mite droppings are one of the top allergens for individuals with asthma and allergies. Children are particularly affected.
How to Remedy the Smell in Your Home
Inspecting your crawlspace is the first step. If this thought terrifies you let the experts take over. We will be happy to come by and inspect your crawlspace for any of the issues mentioned. The team at Aqua-Guard is here to help! If humidity and moisture are the culprits we offer crawlspace waterproofing and encapsulation. Crawlspace encapsulation is the best way to eliminate any current sources of bad smells and to keep them away permanently. That is right- permanently. Encapsulation creates an environment where mildew, mold, and fungus cannot grow and the crawlspace is sealed from outside air and pests. We are so confident in our work that we offer a “Life of the Structure” guarantee. The work we do will be guaranteed for the life of the structure not just for the current owners.
Don’t put up with any foul odors any longer. Contact the team at Aqua-Guard for a free estimate. Remember, we specialize in dry!