While the crawl space under your home might appear to offer valuable storage space, it’s vital to remember that not all crawl spaces are created equal. Before storing anything, homeowners must evaluate factors like moisture levels, airflow, risks of damage, and fire safety.
Read ahead to learn:
Not every crawl space is ideal for storing household items. The suitability of your crawl space storage depends on its type and environmental conditions.
If your crawl space is encapsulated with a moisture barrier, it becomes a safe place for storage. However, regular maintenance is still essential to ensure humidity levels remain low.
Vented crawl spaces are not suitable for storage. For example, well-packed items can get damaged by moisture and pests over time.
If you have a dirt-floor crawl space, avoid storing wood, metal, or fabric items to prevent moisture intrusion and decay.
To ensure the long-term safety of your stored items, follow these crawl space storage guidelines:
Using a properly encapsulated crawl space as storage helps:
Avoid perishable goods, valuable items, and materials sensitive to humidity. Furthermore, store paper documents, fabrics, and electronics in climate-controlled areas.
If you want to use your crawl space for storage, consider encapsulation services to protect your belongings. For example,Atlantic Foundation & Crawl Space provides professional crawl space encapsulation, moisture control, and foundation repair services to help homeowners maintain a safe and functional crawl space. Next stop, schedule a free homeowner’s consultation.
1. What methods are acceptable to keep water out of my crawlspace?
Consider sump pump, dehumidifiers as the first line of defense, and then crawlspace encapsulation and French drains for intense protection.
2. What additional spaces can I use for storage?
Storage barns and sheds allow homeowners the choice to add more storage on their property. However, for small properties consider a storage unit rental. Consequently, companies allow you to permanently own your own storage unit as well.
3. Why install a French Drain?
French drains redirects water that collects the base of your home, so your foundation and crawlspace are protected.
*Disclaimer-All recommendations and DIY projects on Atlantic Foundation are at your own risk. Please approach with caution and speak with professionals before you make any changes to your home. Atlantic foundation does not guarantee you, your place of residence, or your property’s safety. These are suggestions and not guaranteed. Death, injury, and property loss are possible with any DIY activity. We accept no responsibility as we have listed all the risks associated with DIY projects.
Sources
Converting Your Crawl Space into a Storage Area (Quick Guide) – Bob Vila
Don’t Crawl in the Dark! Turn Your Crawl Space Into Usable Space | Best Pick Reports
10 Things You Should Never Store in Your Basement or Crawl Space (familyhandyman.com)
Items You Can Safely Place in Crawl Space Storage (Easy List) – Clean Attic & Crawl (localinsulationpros.com)