A crawl space can harbor many dangers if it is not maintained properly. The construction of your crawl space remains a part of your house structure and can cause instability when damage occurs. Rotting wood may not support your home well.  Mold and mildew can also cause health problems to everyone in the home, including pets. You can often smell mold or feel excessive humidity in your home if your crawl space becomes damaged. Look for standing water, rotting wood, and misplaced or wet insulation. 

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew can ruin your home. If you do not find it quickly, it may spread throughout floors and walls. You may need both a foundation repair and mold removal once this happens. Mold can also cause respiratory and neurological issues. If mold becomes severe, you may notice allergy-like symptoms, headaches, and skin rashes. If you have a sensitivity to mold, you may become quite uncomfortable at home. Consult with a professional for crawl space repair Michigan to restore your home. 

Rotting Wood

Water damage can cause wood to rot under your home. If the floor of your home begins to feel bouncy when you walk on it, you may have water damage in your crawl space. Eventually, your floor may completely collapse. This can cause injuries to those walking on it at the time. The structure of your crawl space supports your home. When the wood rots, your home becomes dangerous. The instability can cause problems with walls and floors, sabotaging the stability of your home. Progressive rot can even cause your entire house to lean to one side. 

Insulation Damage

If you have a leak or excessive condensation in your crawl space, the insulation may get wet. When this happens, mold and bacteria can grow on the insulation. The insulation may also fall out of it’s intended space, as well. Wet insulation also does not help protect your home from heat or cold. This can lead to higher electric bills. Remove wet insulation as soon as possible to prevent further damage and health problems. 

Standing Water

Standing water can create several different problems. If you have standing water in your crawl space, you may need to have your foundation checked. Water should not move towards your house. Most landscaping works to move water away from the home. Standing water in a crawl space increases moisture in the crawl space and your home. It can also attract insects and animals. Mosquitos breed in standing water and carry diseases. 

You can keep your home healthy by maintaining your crawl space properly. Check the area routinely for moisture and other damage. When you find problems quickly, you can often get repairs done to prevent further issues. Moisture in your crawl space can create mold and attract insects. You may also notice rotting wood and sagging insulation. Pay attention to high humidity in the home, musty smells, and higher utility bills. The air quality in your home can become unhealthy with increased moisture in your crawl space. The structure of your home may also become unstable. Call for professional help at the first sign of moisture damage.