There are positives and negatives associated with crawl spaces. The positive is that everything including structure, plumbing, wiring and ductwork is more accessible. The negative is that by the nature of the design crawl spaces are cultures for mold, mildew and termites.
A crawlspace is a shallow and uninhabitable area, usually between the soil and the first floor of the home. Crawlspaces usually provide access to the electrical, plumbing and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems located below the first floor. The following general guidelines are required in new homes:
Minimum access opening is 18 inches by 24 inches if the is access through the floor and 16 inches by 24 inches if access is through the wall.
Minimum access opening if mechanical
equipment, if an HVAC system is located in the crawlspace is 30 inches by 30 inches.
Minimum clearance between the soil and joists is 18 inches and 12 inches between the soils and beams.
Minimum ventilation, every 150 square feet of floor space, requires a one square foot ventilation opening.
Wet Crawlspace
Water control and management in the crawlspace is essential for maintaining a house. The most common problem associated with wet crawlspaces is that moist conditions can lead to wood destroying fungus that deteriorates exposed framing. In addition, excessive moisture is a condition that can lead to infestation of wood destroying insects, such as termites.
In exceptional cases, water penetration into a crawlspace can lead to the undermining of the foundation.
As you can see that a crawl space inspection is very important.
Fred Sweezer Sr.
1-562-234-2689
fsweezer@Gmail.com
Http://www.thelongbeachhomeinspector.com
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