Crawl space mold is a moisture problem first.
Crawl space mold grows where there is moisture, organic material and little airflow, and a damp crawl space supplies all three. Wood framing, subfloor and paper-faced insulation are ideal food. Wiping off the mold without fixing the moisture is a temporary result at best.
The Crawlspace Guy controls the moisture that lets mold take hold, using drainage where needed, a sealed vapor barrier and a dehumidifier sized for the space. We serve homeowners in Roanoke, Salem and Blacksburg, where warm humid summers give mold plenty of chances.
How to recognize moisture and mold under a house.
Earthy, musty air
A damp basement smell that reaches the rooms above is a common first sign of a wet crawl space.
Fuzzy growth and dark staining
White, gray or dark patches on joists, subfloor or the foundation wall, plus rusty nails and sagging insulation.
Damp or soft wood
Wood that feels wet or gives under pressure may already be rotting. Do not press hard on suspect framing.
Stop the moisture, then keep it stopped.
Find out why it is wet
Standing water, humid air, a plumbing leak or a dryer vent can each cause it. We look at all of them before recommending anything.
Remove the source
Water entry is handled with French drains or a sump pump. Humid air is handled by sealing the space with crawl space encapsulation.
Dehumidify the sealed space
A dehumidifier holds humidity at a level where mold has a hard time growing. We size it to the space instead of guessing.
Check it over time
Dehumidifiers and pumps need attention. Our inspections and maintenance keep an eye on the equipment.
What to expect, and what not to expect.
Killing mold with a spray does not fix a wet crawl space, and covering old growth with plastic does not either. We are open about what can be cleaned, what needs to be replaced and what depends on getting the moisture under control first.
If anyone in the home has breathing concerns, mention it when you call so we can help you plan the order of work. Homeowners in Roanoke and Blacksburg can also read the guide on why the right waterproofing contractor matters, then get in touch for a free estimate.
One company, whole picture
Drainage, sealing and dehumidification are planned together by John, so the pieces fit together.
Common questions about this service
Can I just clean the mold myself?
Does a dehumidifier alone fix crawl space mold?
Is mold in the crawl space affecting the air in my house?
How do I prevent mold from coming back?
Smelling something under the house?
Tell us what you see and smell. We will find where the moisture comes from and quote a real fix for free.