Question 1

What does a crawl space inspection include?

Accepted Answer

We inspect the crawl space for moisture, humidity, water intrusion, drainage issues, vapor barrier condition, fungal growth or staining, insulation problems, ventilation and air sealing, and structural concerns. We explain what we find and discuss the appropriate options based on the condition of your crawl space.

Question 2

Is the crawl space inspection really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide free crawl space inspections for homeowners so we can evaluate the conditions and explain what we find. There is no obligation to move forward with any recommended work.

Question 3

Do I need to know what's wrong with my crawl space before I call?

Accepted Answer

No. That's what the inspection is for. You don't need to know whether you need encapsulation, a vapor barrier, drainage, a sump pump, fungal treatment, or structural repairs. We'll evaluate the space and explain what we're seeing.

Question 4

How long does a crawl space inspection take?

Accepted Answer

Inspection times vary depending on the size and condition of the crawl space. We take the time necessary to properly evaluate the space and explain our findings.

Question 5

What areas does The Crawl Shield service?

Accepted Answer

The Crawl Shield is based in Murfreesboro and serves homeowners throughout Middle Tennessee, including Murfreesboro, Smyrna, La Vergne, Franklin, Brentwood, Nashville, Mt. Juliet, Lebanon, Hendersonville, Columbia, and Shelbyville.

Question 6

Do you provide written proposals?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When work is recommended, we provide a written proposal outlining the recommended scope of work so you know what is being proposed before moving forward.

Question 7

What is crawl space encapsulation?

Accepted Answer

Crawl space encapsulation is a moisture-control system designed to isolate the crawl space from the ground and outside air. Depending on the crawl space, the system may include a reinforced liner, sealed seams, sealed vents and air gaps, and properly sized humidity control.

Question 8

What is the difference between a vapor barrier and crawl space encapsulation?

Accepted Answer

A vapor barrier primarily addresses moisture coming through the ground. Full encapsulation is a more comprehensive system that can include ground and wall coverage, sealed seams, vent and air sealing, and humidity control. The appropriate solution depends on the conditions in the crawl space.

Question 9

Does every crawl space need full encapsulation?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Every crawl space is different. Some spaces may only need a vapor barrier repair or upgrade, while others may require encapsulation, drainage improvements, humidity control, structural repairs, or a combination of solutions. We base our recommendations on what we find during the inspection.

Question 10

Does crawl space encapsulation require a dehumidifier?

Accepted Answer

Not every situation is identical, but humidity control is an important part of maintaining a properly sealed crawl space. The encapsulation itself is so that you can effectively dehumidify the area. We evaluate the conditions and recommend appropriate humidity control based on the crawl space.

Question 11

How long does crawl space encapsulation last?

Accepted Answer

The lifespan of a crawl space system depends on the materials used, installation, environmental conditions, and how the space is maintained. The Crawl Shield provides applicable written warranties for qualifying systems. Your specific warranty information will be included with your proposal.

Question 12

Why is there water in my crawl space?

Accepted Answer

Water can enter a crawl space for several reasons, including groundwater, poor drainage, foundation seepage, plumbing leaks, grading issues, roof runoff, or inadequate water management. We inspect the space to help identify the source and determine the appropriate solution.

Question 13

Why is my crawl space humid if I don't have standing water?

Accepted Answer

A crawl space can have high humidity without visible standing water. Moisture can enter through exposed soil, outside air, foundation walls, condensation, or other sources. Humidity can remain elevated even when the floor appears dry.

Question 14

Do I need a sump pump?

Accepted Answer

That depends on the water conditions in your crawl space. If water is entering or collecting in an area where a sump system is appropriate, a properly installed sump pump can help collect and discharge water. We evaluate the conditions before recommending a system.

Question 15

What happens to water after it enters the crawl space?

Accepted Answer

The goal is to collect and direct water away from the crawl space using the appropriate drainage and discharge system. Depending on the property, this may involve drainage systems, sump basins, sump pumps, discharge piping, or other water-management solutions.

Question 16

Can you fix my crawl space if I already have a sump pump?

Accepted Answer

Yes. An existing sump pump does not necessarily mean the entire water-management system is functioning properly. We can evaluate the sump, basin, drainage, discharge piping, check valve, freeze protection, and overall setup.

Question 17

What causes fungal growth in a crawl space?

Accepted Answer

Moisture and elevated humidity can create conditions that support fungal growth. Common contributors include ground moisture, water intrusion, condensation, inadequate air sealing, poor humidity control, and other moisture sources.

Question 18

Can wood staining be mistaken for fungal growth?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Wood can have staining, discoloration, dirt, or other conditions that may be mistaken for active fungal growth. Proper evaluation considers the appearance of the material along with the moisture and environmental conditions present in the crawl space.

Question 19

What does your fungal treatment include?

Accepted Answer

The Crawl Shield uses a commercial-grade peroxide-based treatment on applicable areas. Treatment is intended to address fungal growth and affected surfaces. The specific scope of treatment will be outlined in your proposal.

Question 20

Does your fungal treatment have a warranty?

Accepted Answer

Applicable fungal treatment is backed by a one-year warranty, subject to the terms, conditions, and exclusions stated in the written warranty. Ongoing moisture intrusion, elevated humidity, water leaks, or other conditions that contribute to fungal growth may not be covered.

Question 21

Can you repair damaged crawl space supports?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Depending on the condition of the structure, we can provide solutions such as adjustable floor supports, steel beams, sistered joists, and other structural repairs when appropriate.

Question 22

Can you repair or replace damaged insulation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can address certain insulation issues as part of crawl space repair work. The appropriate approach depends on the condition, location, accessibility, and cause of the damage.

Question 23

Can you fix crawl space drainage and water discharge problems?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can evaluate drainage and sump discharge systems and make improvements where needed, including properly sized piping, check valves, freeze protection, and appropriate discharge routing.

Question 24

Do you repair foundation moisture problems?

Accepted Answer

We can address certain crawl space and foundation moisture conditions. The appropriate repair depends on where the water is coming from and the condition of the affected area. We'll explain the findings and available options after inspection.

Question 25

How much does crawl space encapsulation cost?

Accepted Answer

There is no single price that applies to every crawl space. Cost depends on the size of the space, existing conditions, moisture levels, drainage needs, liner requirements, humidity control, access, and any additional repairs that may be needed. We inspect the crawl space before providing a specific proposal.

Question 26

Do you offer financing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Financing options are available for qualifying customers. You can use the financing option on our website to explore available payment options. We also have a link attached to every proposal.

Question 27

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept cash, check, credit/debit card, and available financing options.

Question 28

Do you provide warranties?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Applicable products and services may include written warranties. Warranty terms vary by product and service. Your specific warranty information will be provided with your proposal and project documentation.

Question 29

What happens after the work is completed?

Accepted Answer

After the work is completed, we'll review the completed scope with you and provide applicable project and warranty documentation. We want you to understand what was done and how to maintain the system.

Question 30

What if I am not sure whether I need the work recommended?

Accepted Answer

Ask questions. We believe you should understand what is being recommended and why. We'll explain what we found, what problem the recommendation addresses, and what options may be available.

Question 31

Do you work with realtors?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with homeowners, real estate agents, buyers, and sellers to help evaluate and address crawl space conditions.

Question 32

Can you inspect or repair a crawl space before closing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We regularly work with properties involved in real estate transactions. Timing and scope depend on the property and the needs of the transaction. We also have the ability to work out of escrow with appropriate documentation.

Question 33

Can you provide documentation for completed work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Applicable proposals, invoices, warranty information, and other project documentation can be provided as appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Crawl Space Encapsulation

Water & Moisture

Fungal Growth & Wood Conditions

Structural & Other Repairs

Cost, Financing & Payment

Warranties & After the Job

Real Estate / Home Buying

Explore Our Crawl Space Services

Crawl Space Encapsulation

Crawl Space Water Mitigation

Floor Support Systems

Mold & Fungal Treatment

Vapor Barrier Installation

Fast Reaction Real Estate Services

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