What is a crawl space?

Sometimes, people may refer to a crawl space as a “cubby hole” closet, or even the attic above the rest of the home. But typical crawl spaces are underneath the home.

Not all homes have a crawl space, but it is a common practice to build houses with this hollow area, usually one to three feet high, underneath. The crawl space elevates the home off the ground, and it is a convenient place for HVAC units, ductwork, plumbing, and electrical wiring. (Source: Realtor.com) These areas also typically have dirt floors, because it is cheaper than pouring concrete.

Crawl spaces generally are “out of sight, out of mind” for homeowners, but they should not be. It is crucial to be aware of what is underneath your living space. Would you feel comfortable knowing there could be nasty conditions like mold growth, standing water, failing support beams, insects, and rodents under your feet?