I know, crawl space vent covers aren’t the most glamorous subject in the world, but if you’re a homeowner, they can be a very big deal when it comes to your property’s health. These little but important parts act as a shield for your crawl spaces from moisture, pests, and other potential factors that can lead to poor structural integrity and poor indoor air quality in your house.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This blog post is everything you need on crawl space vent covers. We’ll tell you what they’re meant for, identify the issues with open crawl space vents, and disclose an ideal solution for your home with vent covers. You’ll also find out about the different types of covers, what to take into account in making a purchase, and some easy installation and maintenance tips to keep your home in tiptop condition.
What Are Crawl Space Vents and Why Are They Important?
Crawl space vents introduce outdoor air under your house, in theory to lower moisture levels. They’re a popular household item, and have been for decades, especially in areas with a lot of moisture.
But his longstanding method of venting has prompted questions from building scientists and homeowners alike. Open crawl space vents were originally intended to keep moisture from accumulating, but sometimes they can actually do more damage than good.
The Issues with Open Crawl Space Vents
Open crawl space vents can actually bring unwanted consequences into your home, such as:
-
Increased Moisture
Rather than decreasing moisture, the open vents may even inadvertently one-up the moisture factor in crawl space, particularly during the hot season. This can cause condensation, mold and rotting wood, which can all cause structural damage to your home.
-
Pest Infestation
Open vents serve as entrances for pests such as rodents, insects and spiders. These unwelcome visitors can build nests, gnaw through wiring and ruin insulation. Even worse, they may harbor diseases that could threaten your family.
-
Energy Inefficiency
Air from the crawl space can escape into your home, making it more difficult to control the temperature inside. This strains your HVAC unit and causes higher utility costs.
-
Poor Ind/oor Air Quality
Did you also know that half of all the air in your home can emanate from the crawl space? If your basement is consistently damp or musty, it can transfer that unrefined air into your living space, compromising your air quality and your family’s health.
How Crawl Space Vent Covers Resolve These Issues
With crawl space vent covers you can easily prevent cold, wet air and pests from entering your crawl space through vent openings. With sealed vents you are much more able to control the environment under your home and keep the elements away.
More expensive vent covers are generally constructed with durable materials such as plastic or metal, and can withstand exposure to the elements. They are also simple to put in and let you keep a healthy andwell-insulated crawl space.
Styles of Crawl Space Vent Covers
All vent covers are not created equal. There are various models to suit different needs and likes. Here’s a brief look at what’s on the market:
Solid Covers
These effectively do a full closure of your vent opening which provides you with complete protection from dust, air and moisture without the need for you to make another trip under your trailer.
Insulated Covers
Insulated vent covers are a secondary covering that are designed to prevent heat loss in the winter and cold air loss in the summer.
Hinged Covers
Hinged versions allow access to the vent without completely removing the cover. These are invaluable for inspections and for cleaning on a regular basis.
Automatic Vent Covers
They have automatic vent covers that open and close to help moderate the temperature by allowing ventilation in the warmer months and closing to protect from cold in the cooler months.
Things to Consider When Selecting Vent Covers
Considerations Before You Buy Here are some things to consider before selecting and buying your new crawl space vent covers:
- Durable Material: Make sure the covers are built with durable and good materials corrosion and UV resistance.
- Perfect Fit: Simply measure and make sure your pre-existing vents are of the same size.
- Insulation Requirements: Choose insulated covers if you reside in an area with extreme weather.
- Installation: If mounting on your own, seek a design that is easy and has a do-it-yourself style.
- Aesthetics: Certain vent covers are made to match your home’s exterior, so they don’t stick out like a sore thumb.
DIY Installation Versus Hiring A Pro Nothing says ‘do it yourself’ like do it yourself.
DIY Installation
This coverage can usually be accomplished by a handy homeowner without any trouble. You can use simple tools and caulk or weatherstripping to secure vent covers in place and ensure a tight seal. Many models don’t need professional expertise.
When to Call a Professional
But if your crawl space also needs moisture control, additional insulation, or structural upgrades, it may be best to leave the work to the pros. A crawl space professional can fully protect your house and correct any problems.
How to Maintain Crawl Space Vent Covers
To maintain the effectiveness of you vent covers, you’ll have to do a little maintenance.
-
Inspect Regularly
Scour for cracks, warping or other evidence of damage, particularly after extreme weather.
-
Clean Debris
Clear leaves, dirt or debris that could collect around the vent covers.
-
Check Seals
Make sure the vent covers are fastened securely; you don’t want moisture or critters getting in.
Monitor Your Crawl Space
This will ensure your crawl space is still dry, free of pests, and insulated properly.
Advantages of Crawl Space Vent Covers
Here is a brief summary of what you will need to keep in mind when you want to invest in crawl space vent covers for your home:
Better Moisture Control
Keep your crawl space safe from moisture and meet local codes as you reduce the chance of mold, rot and structural harm.
Pest Prevention
Prevent pests from moving into your crawl space.
Energy Efficiency
Keep energy costs down & maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Improved Air Quality
Spread positive energy: From your home to any space, fill the air in any room with a fresh, clean fragrance also creating the ideal environment for you to breathe easy with its unique filtering system.
Longevity for Your Home
Protect your crawl space, insulation, and home foundation with Crawl Space Encapsulation 360 and ensure your home lasts for years to come.
Crawl Space Vent Covers may appear to be a small purchase, but they do so much to improve the health and efficiency of the rest of your home. When you seal your vents, you’ll be preventing dampness, pests, and poor air quality along with energy waste and discomfort in your home.
Whether you’re a handy do-it-yourself or someone who prefers to leave installation to the pros, getting the best quality crawl space vent covers for your home is one of the smartest choices you can make for protecting your investment.
Is it time to start protecting your crawl space? Start your journey by looking at your options and selecting your perfect vent covers for your home today.
