chippedtooth
Member
- Joined
- Jul 13, 2015
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- 9
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I have read much discussion whether it is better to ventilate a crawlspace or encapsulate. I live in North Carolina where it is humid, seemingly, all of the time. I have a humidistat in the crawlspace and during this time of year the humidity reading often ranges from 80% to 55%. When compared to the outside humidity, the crawlspace is generally 10-15% higher.
I know these readings are high, but how can I possibly expect a 40% RH reading when the outside air is often at 70% or higher? I have added a vapor barrier, some vent fans, and increased ventilation by making the three crawlspace doors vented as well. Plus, when I bought the house in October there were no gutters. The first thing I did was install gutters and run the downspouts out into the yard.
I have debated trying to seal the crawlspace, but the house was built in the 1890's and far less than air tight. Also, there is no subfloor in parts. The floor boards are very thick, but they are attached directly to joists.
The moisture level in the wood framing is about 16-18%.
The house has been standing for over a hundred years - so I have to imagine something is working in the crawlspace.
Is it worth/possible to encapsulate the crawlspace? Or given the region, are those RH readings at this time of year normal?
Thanks!
I know these readings are high, but how can I possibly expect a 40% RH reading when the outside air is often at 70% or higher? I have added a vapor barrier, some vent fans, and increased ventilation by making the three crawlspace doors vented as well. Plus, when I bought the house in October there were no gutters. The first thing I did was install gutters and run the downspouts out into the yard.
I have debated trying to seal the crawlspace, but the house was built in the 1890's and far less than air tight. Also, there is no subfloor in parts. The floor boards are very thick, but they are attached directly to joists.
The moisture level in the wood framing is about 16-18%.
The house has been standing for over a hundred years - so I have to imagine something is working in the crawlspace.
Is it worth/possible to encapsulate the crawlspace? Or given the region, are those RH readings at this time of year normal?
Thanks!