The benefits of attic and crawl space cleaning include removing insulation damage, allergens, mold prevention (and remediation), energy efficiency improvement (by reducing heat loss/heat gain), and preventing pests. Many individuals believe that the only benefit is the fact that they look better; this may be true for some, but there are other benefits.
Crawl spaces and attics are both areas that trap moisture, which can cause problems if they are not taken care of. A musty smell is usually the first sign of a possible problem, but this is only one symptom. One may also come across mold or signs of rodent (or some other kind) habitation; these are also signs that something is wrong.
5 Benefits of Attic and Crawl Space Cleaning
- Improves insulation – One of the first and most important benefits of attic and crawl space cleaning is that it helps to improve insulation. Attics and crawl spaces are both known for trapping moisture, which can lead to an increase in problems such as mold. This trapped water causes air pockets to form between the walls of these areas and the insulation; this makes the insulation less effective.
- Removes decay – Most items that are in crawl spaces have already begun to decay if water is present, even if it has just started to form on the surface. Cleaning out these areas helps remove much of the decay and extends the life of insulation, wiring, flooring, and more.
- Helps improve air quality – When power equipment such as a vacuum is used to clean out these areas, it helps remove dust and other allergens from the air, improving overall air quality.
- Prevention of infestations – Pests such as termites and rodents are attracted to materials that decay and cause problems in these areas. Cleaning out crawl spaces helps to remove this food source, which in turn reduces the likelihood of infestations. This benefit also includes animals such as birds, squirrels, and raccoons.
- Reduced energy costs – By reducing heat loss/heat gain in crawl spaces, it means that less energy is needed for cooling and heating. This, of course, means a reduced power bill.
Cleaner attics and crawl spaces also help with the removal of insulation damage and decay (which can make them less able to provide sufficient insulation), improving overall air quality by removing allergens and other particles from the air, reducing the likelihood of animal infestations, and helping to prevent damage from pests, which can lead to reduced energy costs.
