How Excess Moisture in Your Crawl Space Causes Structural & Health Problems
Do You Have Moisture in Your Crawl Space?
Moisture is one of the biggest threats lurking beneath your home—and it doesn’t take much to cause lasting damage. In the St. Louis area, where humidity levels can rise sharply and groundwater problems are common, moisture in your crawl space can lead to both structural damage and health concerns.
At Perma-Jack of St. Louis, we specialize in protecting homes from these hidden threats. In this article, we break down how moisture enters your crawl space, the problems it causes, and what you can do to stop it.
Why Moisture in Your Crawl Space is Dangerous
Your crawl space supports your entire home. When it’s damp or wet, everything from your foundation to your family’s well-being is at risk.
Structural Issues Caused by Moisture:
- Wood Rot: Constant moisture exposure causes floor joists, beams, and subflooring to weaken and decay. This results in sagging or bouncy floors and reduced load-bearing strength.
- Corrosion: Metal components, such as ductwork, pipes, and support brackets, rust faster in high-humidity environments.
- Foundation Problems: Saturated soil can lead to erosion or movement beneath the crawl space, causing uneven settling, cracks, and other foundation issues.
Health Risks from a Wet Crawl Space:
Moisture fuels the growth of mold, mildew, and dust mites, all of which can affect indoor air quality. Since air naturally rises through your home (known as the stack effect), any pollutants in the crawl space can easily spread upstairs.
You might notice:
- Musty odors
- Increased allergy or asthma symptoms
- Worsening respiratory issues
- Visible mold on subflooring or insulation
How to Fix a Damp Crawl Space (The Perma-Jack Way)
At Perma-Jack, we offer proven moisture control solutions designed for the unique soil conditions and climate of the greater St. Louis region. Our crawl space services focus on long-term protection, not just temporary fixes.
1. Crawl Space Encapsulation
Encapsulation involves sealing your crawl space with a heavy-duty vapor barrier on the floor and walls. We also seal off vents and other air leaks to prevent outdoor humidity from creeping in.
Benefits include:
- Stops ground moisture from rising into your home
- Reduces mold growth and musty odors
- Improves energy efficiency and air quality
- Adds resale value to your home
2. Crawl Space Dehumidification
Even with encapsulation, moisture can still find its way in. That’s why we often recommend installing a high-capacity crawl space dehumidifier. These systems maintain safe humidity levels and operate automatically to keep your space dry and healthy.
Perks include:
- Continuous humidity control
- Protection for wood and insulation
- Cleaner, healthier air inside your home
3. Crawl Space Drainage and Sump Pump Systems
If your crawl space is prone to water intrusion, we install internal drainage systems with sump pumps to remove water before it causes damage. This protects your home’s foundation from hydrostatic pressure and helps prevent settlement issues.
Why You Should Act Now
The longer crawl space moisture is ignored, the more damage it causes—and the more expensive it becomes to repair. If you’re noticing soft floors, strange odors, or signs of mold, it’s time to take action.
Contact Us for a Quote on Crawl Space Waterproofing & Encapsulation
As a trusted name in foundation repair and waterproofing since 1974, Perma-Jack of St. Louis has the tools, experience, and regional expertise to protect your crawl space from the ground up.