How to eliminate crawl space odor
The most frequent cause of crawl space odor is moisture, and a common culprit is improperly designed and installed vents, which can allow rainwater to find its way into the space. Replace or repair leaking vents.
Before you can remove the odor, you’ll have to get into the crawl space and inspect for plumbing leaks. Also look for excessive condensation on the cold water lines, which would indicate a humidity/vapor barrier problem. Inspect all framing members to assess rot. Look at all the walls for signs of cracking or water infiltration. If any of these are present, you are going to be able to eliminate crawl space odor but unless the leaks, condensation and/or water filtration is repaired, the odor will return.
Outside the home, make sure any crawl space vents are closed and well-sealed. Check the ground level to make sure water is not pooling against the foundation. Make sure gutters and downspouts are properly connected and draining away from the house. Here, too, repairing the cause is the first step to eliminate crawl space odor.
[cptui cptui_posttype=”tips” cptui_shortcode=”default_shortcode” cptui_shortcode_id=”1528″ attached_post=”10339″][/cptui]Deodorizing the crawl space
When moisture gets trapped in a basement or crawl space, invariably you find mold on the walls and the underside of the floor.
Remove the mold with a solution of three parts water and one part bleach. Scrub the walls, floor joists and underneath the subfloor with a stiff-bristled brush and/or scouring pads. Wear a quality face mask and gloves when you do.
When the area is clean, remove any standing water and wipe down the walls with a dry towel. Allow the space to air out or place fans and/or a dehumidifier in the space for at least 24 hours to allow wooden framing members and other wet materials to dry completely.
This is a good time to inspect the access door and repair it if necessary. Whether it’s an access door through the floor above or through an exterior wall, the door should be well insulated and maintain a tight seal when closed. The underside of the floor should also be insulated, just make sure the insulation does not have a vapor barrier component to it.
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