The Cons of Choosing a Crawlspace Instead of a Basement

A home on a crawlspace is preferable to a slab dwelling. Pipes are readily accessible when repairs must be made, but it has many cons that should be considered whether building or buying. Even if it has a concrete floor, slab walls and offers access from inside, it might not be an ideal choice. Consider the following cons of choosing a crawlspace as a money-saving alternative to a basement. You might be surprised by some of the disadvantages and problems that can arise.

Humidity Issues and Useless Space

One of the major cons of a crawlspace is moisture, especially in humid locations. It must have proper ventilation to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Forget to open the vents when warmer weather arrives, and porous items in storage can become covered in mold. A dehumidifier can be installed, but if the crawlspace includes a sump pump pit that regularly fills with water, it will pull moisture out of the hole as well as from the surrounding air. It will have to run almost continuously, and it still might not solve the problem.

Major Odor Problems

The slightest bit of mold and mildew smells absolutely terrible. When living areas of the home are connected to a damp crawlspace, the entire house will stink when the windows are closed. It can be a major problem, and it is most certainly one of the biggest cons. Consider a basement instead. Although a basement can also have moisture problems, it is a better choice for a number of reasons. Besides providing more living space, humidity will not seep in through open foundation vents. Unlike a crawlspace, a basement is completely sealed.

Creepy Crawly Visitors

Moisture and odor problems are just two of the major cons of a crawlspace. Creepy crawly visitors including spiders and centipedes will easily find their way in, especially when the access door connects to a living area. Since they can make it through the smallest of openings, battling bugs will be a continual problem. In areas that experience all four seasons to the fullest, spiders are especially bad in the fall when the temperatures start to drop.

Access Challenges

The majority of adults have to duck way down in a crawlspace, hence the name of the structure. Access challenges are also just one of the many major cons to consider, especially for those with back problems and mobility issues. Even if you can safely store items in plastic totes, it is an uncomfortable space to maneuver. Imagine crawling or crouching down for long periods of time while working in the area. Simply removing items or putting them away can cause backaches, neck aches and painful injuries. If possible, choose a home with a basement instead, and take every precaution to keep it dry. A dry basement is worth the added expense.

Source: Life in a Tri-Level House with a Crawlspace