Suffer from allergies? You may be sleeping over your crawl space
December 10, 2022

We all know that allergies can be miserable. But have you ever stopped to consider whether the cause of your allergies might be lurking in your own home? Many homeowners are surprised to learn that their crawl space could be the source of their suffering. Let’s take a closer look at why this might be the case and what you can do about it. 


The Problem with Crawl Spaces 

Crawl spaces are notoriously difficult to access, which makes them an ideal breeding ground for allergens like dust mites, mold, and mildew. In addition, because they’re usually damp and dark, crawl spaces are also attractive to pests like rodents and insects, which can spread disease-causing bacteria. And if you’re not regularly inspecting your crawl space for signs of damage or decay, these allergens may go unchecked for months or even years. 


Eliminating Crawl Space Allergens 

The first step in eliminating crawl space allergens is understanding what type of problem you’re dealing with. If there is a significant amount of dust mite droppings present in your crawl space, then it’s likely that you will need to invest in a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity levels down below 50%. This should help reduce the number of dust mites in your space and discourage any new ones from settling there. Additionally, a regular cleaning schedule should be implemented to keep the area free from debris and other sources of contamination.

                   

If your crawl space has been invaded by pests such as rodents or insects, then it is important that you take action right away. Opting for professional extermination services is often the best way to ensure that any infestations are dealt with quickly and effectively without putting yourself at risk of exposure to harmful chemicals or other contaminants. Additionally, sealing off cracks or holes that provide easy access into your home should help keep new critters from sneaking into your living areas unnoticed.


What is a crawl space?

As a homeowner, you’ve probably heard of a crawl space, but what exactly is it? A crawl space is an area underneath your home open to the outside world. It provides access to plumbing, wiring, and other essential components of your home’s foundation. In extreme cases, it can also be used for storage or as an extra room. Let’s take a closer look at what a crawl space is and why it’s important. 


Benefits Of Having A Crawl Space 

Easy access to your home's foundation through a crawl space offers several benefits to homeowners. First and foremost, it allows for quick repairs or maintenance when needed without having to break through walls or dig up parts of the foundation. This makes repairs much easier and less expensive than traditional methods. Additionally, since it’s open to the outside environment, air can circulate beneath your home, which helps keep humidity levels down and prevents mold growth. Finally, depending on its size, some homeowners use their crawl spaces as extra storage rooms or even bedrooms in extreme cases! 


Though it may seem like just an empty area beneath your home, a crawl space serves several purposes that make owning a house much easier—from providing much-needed access to the foundation for repairs or maintenance to keeping humidity levels down and even providing extra storage or living areas! So next time you hear someone talking about “crawling into their basement,” don't be afraid—you know exactly what they mean! Keep these benefits in mind when deciding whether or not you need one in your home!


Why should I care about my crawl space?

Crawl spaces are important for providing access to plumbing, electrical wiring, heating systems, and other utilities that need to be serviced occasionally. They also provide ventilation for your home and extra storage space. However, if not properly maintained, they can become breeding grounds for mold and mildew, which could negatively affect your health and cause structural damage to your home over time.


Caring for your crawlspace includes ensuring there isn't too much moisture in the space since this can cause mold growth or water damage to unprotected wood structures such as joists or beams. Here are some ways you can make sure your crawlspace is properly taken care of:

• Check for leaks regularly – water leaks can be caused by pipes bursting or faulty plumbing fixtures; check these areas often so that small problems don't become bigger! 

• Make sure there's no standing water – standing water in a damp environment like a crawlspace can lead to mold growth; make sure all drains are clear and working properly so that any excess water can be drained away quickly! 

• Inspect insulation – damaged insulation can allow air from outside to enter the house; inspect all insulation periodically to ensure it's still intact and doing its job! 

• Ventilate – Ensure adequate ventilation in the crawlspace; this helps reduce humidity levels and prevents mold growth! 


Your crawlspace may seem unimportant to your home, but it provides vital access points for plumbing, electrical wiring, and ventilation benefits. Taking proper care of this area will help ensure that it stays healthy and free from mold or mildew growth while also helping maintain good air quality within your home. It’s important to inspect this area regularly to address any potential issues before they become larger problems down the line!


How can I improve my crawl space?

Keeping your crawl space in tip-top shape is essential for the health of your home. A healthy crawl space keeps out moisture, pests, and other contaminants, ensuring your home's air quality is not compromised. But what steps can you take to keep the area beneath your house safe? Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to maintain and improve your crawl space. 


Cleaning & Maintenance 

First and foremost, it’s important to inspect your crawl space regularly. Inspect for signs of water damage or mold growth and any signs of pest activity, such as droppings or nests. If you find any problems, act quickly to address them before they worsen! Regularly cleaning with a vacuum can also help remove dust, debris, and other allergens that might have accumulated in the area. 


Insulation & Sealing 

Adding insulation and properly sealing off the crawl space will help prevent moisture from entering the living areas of your home. Insulating both hot and cold pipes will ensure that water does not freeze inside them during winter, causing cracks that may lead to leaks. Additionally, sealing off gaps around exterior walls will prevent air from leaking into the crawl space from outside sources like wind or rainwater. Finally, ensure all vents are properly sealed so no pests can enter them. 


Drainage Systems 

If you're dealing with an issue caused by excess moisture in your crawl space due to flooding or poor drainage systems around your property, installing a sump pump may be necessary. The sump pump will collect standing water in the area and safely pump it away from your property without causing further damage. Another option is to install a vapor barrier system that helps block out moisture while allowing excess humidity to escape safely through vents in the wall. 


Improving the condition of your crawl space should always be a top priority if you want to protect yourself from costly repairs down the road due to water damage or pest infestations. Cleaning debris regularly and adding insulation is key in keeping out unwanted guests like insects or rodents while also improving ventilation to reduce humidity levels below dangerous levels. Installing drainage systems or sump pumps can also help address flooding or standing water issues that could cause serious damage over time if left unchecked. Taking these steps will go a long way towards protecting you and your family from potential harm due to unsafe conditions in this often overlooked part of our homes!


What are some common allergens in crawl spaces?

Your home’s crawl space is full of allergens that can cause various health problems. Everything from dust mites to mold spores, pollen, and pet dander can lurk in your crawl space. To help protect your family’s health, it is important to understand which common allergens are found in crawl spaces so you can take the necessary steps to eliminate them. 


Dust Mites 

Dust mites are tiny eight-legged creatures that feed off dead skin cells and other organic matter, such as pet dander and pollen. Although they are too small to see with the naked eye, they can cause allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching eyes and throat, nasal congestion, and asthma attacks. The best way to get rid of dust mites is to regularly use an air purifier or vacuum. Additionally, you should keep your crawl space free of clutter which will help reduce the number of dust mites.


Mold Spores 

Mold spores thrive in dark, damp environments, like in most crawl spaces. They produce tiny particles called mycotoxins that can cause allergic reactions such as coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing when inhaled. If you notice any signs of mold growth in your crawl space, it is important to have it professionally remediated as soon as possible. Doing so will help prevent further growth and stop the spread of mycotoxins throughout your home.


Pollen & Pet Dander 

Pollen and pet dander are two more common allergens found in crawl spaces. Pollen comes from plants and trees outside, while cats or dogs inside the home produce pet dander. Both pollen and pet dander irritate allergies by causing sneezing and watery eyes when inhaled or touched by sensitive individuals. To reduce their presence in your home’s air supply, keep windows closed during peak pollen season (springtime) and clean up after pets regularly inside the house – including vacuuming often! 


Crawl spaces contain many common allergens that can trigger unpleasant symptoms for people who suffer from allergies or asthma. Dust mites, mold spores, pollen, and pet dander are all present in most homes at some level. Still, if not managed properly, they can become problematic for anyone with sensitivities or respiratory issues like asthma attacks. Taking measures like using an air purifier or vacuum regularly; having visible mold growth professionally remediated; keeping windows closed during peak pollen season; cleaning up after pets regularly; will all go a long way towards reducing these allergens inside your home’s crawl space – keeping everyone healthy!


How can I tell if my allergies are caused by something in my home?

If you're experiencing sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes, you may be suffering from allergies. But what's causing your allergies? You may be surprised to learn that the source of your allergies could be something inside your home.


Mold and mildew are two of the most common allergens found in homes. These fungi can grow on any damp surface, including walls, floors, and ceilings. To reduce the spread of mold and mildew spores in your home, keep all surfaces dry by regularly wiping up spills and running a dehumidifier if needed. You should also look for signs of mold or mildew growth in areas where it is likely to thrive, such as bathrooms or basements. To test for mold or mildew growth in these areas, use a special testing kit that will indicate whether or not there are any spores present. 


Dust mites are microscopic creatures that feed off dead skin cells that humans and animals shed. They thrive in warm environments with high humidity levels (above 55%), so they are commonly found in beds, carpets, upholstered furniture, pillows, pet beds, etc. To reduce dust mite levels in your home, you should vacuum regularly using a HEPA-filter vacuum cleaner and wash bedding weekly at 130 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Additionally, encasing mattresses and pillows with an airtight encasement will help to prevent dust mites from settling into fabrics over time. 


Pollen Pollen is another common allergen found indoors due to its ability to travel through open windows on windy days. To reduce pollen levels inside your home, ensure all windows are closed during peak pollen times (generally early morning) and consider investing in air purifiers designed specifically to remove pollen particles from the air. Additionally, if you have pets that spend time outside, then make sure they stay away from carpets or furniture after coming back inside, as their fur can easily carry pollen indoors on their coat. 


Allergies can cause a lot of discomfort for those who suffer from them but identifying the source can often be tricky! By being aware of common allergens such as mold & mildew spores, dust mites & pollen particles, you can mitigate their presence within your home environment – resulting in improved health & well-being for everyone living there! Whether investing in a HEPA-filter vacuum cleaner or purchasing an air purifier, taking small steps today can make all the difference tomorrow!


What can I do to reduce allergens in my home?

Allergies can be a nuisance, especially when triggered by something in your home. Reducing allergens such as dust, pet dander, and mold can help alleviate your symptoms and make your home healthier. Here are some simple steps to reduce the allergens in your home. 


Clean Regularly 

The best way to reduce allergens is to clean frequently. Vacuum carpets and furniture regularly using a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner. Dust surfaces with a damp cloth or microfiber cloth and mop hard floors with a wet mop or steam cleaner. If you have pets, brush them outside or use an air purifier to trap pet dander indoors. 


Keep Windows Closed 

During allergy season, keep windows closed during peak pollen hours (usually between 5-10 am). This will help limit the amount of pollen that gets into the house and reduce your exposure to allergens indoors. Additionally, if you’re running the air conditioning, use an air filter to trap pollen before it enters the house. Change out these filters often as they become clogged with debris over time.


Control Humidity Levels

Mold thrives in damp environments, so it’s important to keep humidity levels in check. Use a dehumidifier in areas such as basements or bathrooms where moisture accumulates. You should also use exhaust fans when taking showers or cooking on the stovetop, as this will help reduce moisture buildup throughout the day. Additionally, address any water leaks immediately, as these can quickly become mold problems if left untreated for too long. 


Reducing allergens in your home is key for keeping allergies at bay and improving overall air quality indoors. By following simple steps, such as cleaning regularly, keeping windows closed during peak pollen hours, and controlling humidity levels, you can make your home much healthier for everyone! With just a little effort, you can create an allergy-friendly environment for yourself and loved ones!


Should I be concerned about mold in my home?

If you are a homeowner, mold can be concerning. It doesn’t take long for mold to spread, and once it does, it can pose a serious risk to your family's health. In this blog post, let’s explore why you should be concerned about mold in your home and what you can do about it. 


Mold Can Make You Sick 

You should first know that mold can cause serious health issues. Many people are allergic to mold, but even those who aren’t can experience adverse reactions from prolonged exposure. Common symptoms include sneezing, coughing, wheezing, skin irritation, headaches, and breathing problems. Some people may also experience fever-like symptoms or nausea when in contact with certain types of mold. 


Where Does Mold Grow? 

Mold loves dark and damp places and often grows in basements or attics with little ventilation or sunlight. It can also grow behind walls or underneath kitchen or bathroom sinks if water damage is present. Generally speaking, any place where water accumulates on an ongoing basis is at risk for developing a mold problem. 


What Can You Do About Mold? 

If you suspect a mold problem in your home, the best thing to do is call a professional remediation company as soon as possible. They have the tools and expertise to properly assess the situation and get rid of the mold quickly and safely without causing further damage to your home. In addition to having a professional come out and deal with the problem, there are also things you can do to prevent future incidents of mold growth, such as ensuring proper ventilation throughout your home; cleaning up spills immediately; inspecting pipes for leaks; using dehumidifiers; and keeping windows open during rainy weather. 


Mold can have serious consequences for your family’s health and the structural integrity of your home if left unchecked. It is important that homeowners take action quickly if they suspect they have a mold issue by calling a professional remediation service right away. Additionally, taking steps to prevent future moisture buildup in areas with poor ventilation will help ensure that your home remains free from this potentially dangerous issue moving forward!


How can I get rid of allergens in my crawl space?

Does your home have a crawl space? If so, it may be harboring hidden allergens that can risk your family's health. From dust mites and mold to pet dander and pollen, allergens can collect in your crawl space and spread throughout your home. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to get rid of these allergens and make sure your home is safe for everyone. Here are what you can do to reduce allergens in your crawl space. 


Clean Frequently 

The best way to prevent allergens from accumulating in your crawl space is by regularly cleaning them out. This includes removing debris or dirt accumulated over time, vacuuming up dust or dirt particles, and wiping down surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner. It's also important to wear protective gear such as gloves and a face mask when cleaning the area to avoid inhaling any dangerous particles. Also, make sure to open windows or use fans to ventilate the space while cleaning it out. 


Invest in an Air Purifier 

An air purifier is another great way to reduce the number of allergens in your home. The purifier works by trapping airborne particles such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold spores before they can circulate throughout the house. There are many different types of air purifiers on the market today so make sure you do some research before investing in one for your home.


Seal Cracks and Gaps 

Allergens can enter through even the smallest cracks or gaps in walls or floors, so it's important that these areas are sealed off properly. Check around doors and windows for cracks or gaps that must be filled with caulk or weatherstripping. Additionally, check around pipes or vents leading into the crawlspace for any gaps that need sealing. This will ensure that no unwanted particles enter the space and spread throughout the house. 


Combat Crawlspace Allergens in Your Home Now!

Allergens are often overlooked but can cause serious health problems if left unchecked. To reduce allergens in your crawlspace (and ultimately throughout your home), take steps such as cleaning frequently, investing in an air purifier, and sealing off cracks and gaps where possible. These precautions will protect your family from harmful pollutants while improving air quality overall!

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