Crawlspace Waterproofing – 3 Reasons to Keep Plants and Trees Away from Your Crawlspace Stamford, CT
Many people believe that crawlspace waterproofing only involves working on the actual crawlspace. However, professional waterproofing services will tell you that there’s much more to waterproofing than that. Professionals ensure that all factors that affect the crawlspace are considered in developing a waterproofing strategy. This includes dealing with plants and trees around your crawlspace.
How trees and plants affect your crawlspace
Trees and plants that grow near your crawl space will have an impact on its state. They affect crawl spaces in various ways.
- Root systems can cause physical damage to the crawlspace structure
If you plant trees and shrubs around the crawlspace, they could place physical pressure on the supporting structures within the crawlspace. This is especially true for trees and shrubs with roots spread out wide instead of going deep.
These root systems also cause damage to crawlspaces by drying the soil and around the crawlspace. This happens when the roots take up moisture from the soil and leave it dry during the dry seasons. The soils shift and leave the supporting structures in the crawlspace without proper support. The dry soil forms cracks. During the rainy season, these cracks accumulate water, and the soil shifts placing pressure on the foundation and causing damage.
- Roots can cause damage to vapor barriers
Crawlspace waterproofing often involves the installation of a water vapor barrier. This barrier keeps moisture as well as pests and insects out of the crawlspace. It serves to keep the crawlspace clean and dry. However, the roots of shrubs and trees can damage the vapor barrier. This will lead to seepage of moisture into the crawlspace. The damaged points can also be a point of entry for pests, insects, and rodents. You may find that you’re dealing with a pest or mold infestation even after investing in waterproofing for your crawlspace.
- Watering plants can result in damage to your crawlspace
If you have plants that need frequent watering planted near your crawlspace, you’re asking for trouble. Frequent watering will result in the soils around the crawlspace becoming absorbing a lot of water. The soils shift and cause damage to your crawlspace structure. It could also cause water to accumulate in your crawl space causing water damage in the crawlspace.
Do you have trees, shrubs, and plants growing near your crawlspace? Consider how this greenery affects your crawl space and take steps to prevent damage by hiring a professional crawlspace waterproofing contractor that will provide you with a comprehensive and long-term solution.
Contact the Professionals at Budget Dry Waterproofing Today! 203-421-8560
