How to Install Crawl Space Insulation in 6 Steps

When it comes to maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home, look no further than the crawl space.

The crawl space, though hidden from plain sight, plays a significant role in regulating temperature and moisture levels throughout the entire house.

One essential aspect of crawl space repair is insulation installation.

While it may not be the most glamorous home improvement project, insulating your crawl space can make a notable difference in your home’s overall comfort and efficiency.

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What are the Advantages of Crawl Space Insulation?

Living in Michigan means experiencing cold winters and hot, humid summers. That’s where crawl space insulation really shines for homeowners.

Crawl space insulation acts like a protective shield, combating extreme temperatures and maintaining a more comfortable indoor environment.

When winter arrives, it keeps the floors above comfortably warm while lightening the load on your heating system.

In summer, it works its magic by minimizing heat gain, letting your air conditioning work efficiently, and keeping your living spaces cool.

Crawl space insulation also plays a vital role in controlling humidity, stopping excess moisture from seeping in and causing mold or rot.

With this smart solution, you’ll enhance energy efficiency and enjoy year-round comfort in your Michigan home.

Install Crawl Space Insulation in 6 Steps

So, you’re ready to improve the energy efficiency of your home.

While it might be tempting to tackle it as a do-it-yourself project, it’s crucial to recognize that crawl space insulation is best left to the professionals at FSM.

Our team of experts has the knowledge, experience, and specialized tools to ensure a flawless insulation installation.

In this guide, we’ll explain how FSM can expertly handle the 6 essential steps to insulate your crawl space.

Step 1: Remove Any Standing Water

Ensuring a water-free crawl space is essential prior to installing insulation. If your crawl space accumulates water, professionals must address any standing water first. This may involve manually extracting water using buckets, utilizing a dehumidifier to extract moisture from the air, or employing a pump to remove the water from the space.

Step 2: Address Crawl Space Repairs, if Needed

Once you have resolved the water issue, tackle any repairs needed inside the crawl space. The repairs can vary in complexity and cost.
On occasion, you may have to invest in beam support before installing crawl space insulation, as damage to your foundation can impact the health of your entire home.

Step 3: Seal Off Doors and Vents Effectively

Sealing your doors and vents is next. By ensuring these openings are tightly sealed, you effectively safeguard your crawl space from future moisture infiltration.
Keep in mind that any components failing to provide a tight seal might require replacement, as prolonged exposure to moisture and standing water can lead to warping of the existing wood materials.

Step 4: Invest in Additional Waterproofing

If leaks or standing water are a problem, you should install a reliable waterproofing method. These may involve an interior drainage system, such as the CrawlDrain™ system, along with a sump pump.
The CrawlDrain™ system is designed to collect any water seepage along the perimeter and efficiently direct it to the specially designed sump pump for drainage.

Step 5: Install Insulation in the Crawl Space

It’s now time to install the crawl space insulation.
When considering insulation options, know not all methods are equally effective.
Conventional soft fiberglass insulation, for instance, tends to get wet easily, fail, and become a haven for pests and mold.
To avoid these issues, opt for rigid ExTremeBloc™ insulation panels that can be placed on the crawl space walls.
To install insulation on the wall, installers will start by measuring the dimensions of the crawl space walls and cutting the insulation panels accordingly. Then, secure the panels to the walls using mechanical fasteners, ensuring a tight fit.
It’s important to cover the entire wall surface, including corners and edges, to create a continuous insulation barrier.

Step 6: Encapsulate Your Crawl Space

Encapsulating your crawl space is the final step in creating a well-insulated and moisture-resistant environment.
This process involves sealing the crawl space with a durable vapor barrier, covering the floor, walls, and even the pillars, and, if needed, installing a dehumidifier.
By encapsulating the crawl space, you effectively prevent moisture intrusion, reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth, and improve the overall air quality in your home.

FSM: Your Trusted Source for Professional Crawl Space Guidance

FSM employee installing a sump pump in a crawl space

When it comes to insulating your crawl space, FSM stands out as the top choice.

With our extensive experience and expertise in crawl space insulation, FSM ensures a comprehensive and reliable solution.

Our team of professionals understands the unique challenges of crawl space insulation and employs state-of-the-art techniques and high-quality materials to deliver exceptional results.

By choosing FSM, you can trust that your crawl space will be effectively insulated, protecting your home from moisture, improving energy efficiency, and creating a healthier living environment.

To get started, schedule your free, no-obligation inspection today.

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FAQs

Do crawl space sump pumps come in different varieties?

Foundation Systems of Michigan offers submersible sump pumps with various pumping capacities to handle different water flow situations. Our sump pump solutions also include battery backup options, providing an added layer of protection in case of power outages. Our experts will complete a thorough, free crawl space inspection to determine which sump pump system is right for your home.

Is it possible to fix my crawl space by myself?

DIY crawl space repairs are generally not advised due to safety risks. Store-bought repair kits may not only be expensive but also offer merely temporary solutions. For professional and reliable crawl space repairs, it’s best to consult with specialists. Foundation Systems of Michigan will provide a thorough inspection at no cost, ascertain the cause of the damage, and propose the most effective repairs for your residence.

Is investing in crawl space encapsulation worthwhile?

Definitely! The advantages of crawl space encapsulation are immediate and long-lasting. It’s an investment that safeguards your home’s structure, boosts energy efficiency, and potentially enhances indoor air quality.

The cost varies based on crawl space size, damage level, and the solutions implemented. Foundation Systems of Michigan provides free inspections and clear pricing, including no-obligation quotes and financing options to fit your budget.

Leah Leitow

Content Writer

Leah is a Content Writer for Groundworks with nearly ten years of experience working in the foundation repair industry. Her experience ranges from working with homeowners to find the right solution to training inspectors and staff. In her background as a Michigan journalist, she gained invaluable insight into people's lives throughout our state. Leah lives in metro Detroit with her husband and two sons.