Wood rot forms from moisture in your crawl space. So the key is to eliminate the water.
Crawl Space Encapsulation – Crawl space encapsulation is when a vapor barrier is placed inside your crawl space. A vapor barrier is a thin layer of impermeable polyethylene sheeting that prevents moisture diffusion through the basement wall. This keeps humidity in your crawl space to a minimum.
Crawl space vapor barriers are the first line of defense against high humidity and poor indoor air quality. These encapsulation barriers are 10 to 20 mil thick, puncture-resistant, and made of a high tensile strength material that stops soil moisture from entering the space. These liners encapsulate the crawl space so that water cannot attack exposed wood and create mold and mildew.
Crawl space sealing prevents the humid air from settling in the space, creating condensation and promoting mold growth. Many studies have proven that a sealed crawl space creates a healthier and more energy-efficient home due to the elimination of humidity fluctuations.
Crawl Space Sump Pump – A sump pump is a fixture in a home’s crawl space. It helps remove groundwater from underneath your home, preventing water from seeping through your floor. Sump pumps are also used to keep basements dry. Without a sump pump (which sits in the sump “pit”), water or heavy precipitation becomes a significant issue in your home.
Dehumidifier – As a warning, you do not need a dehumidifier if your crawl space is vented. Otherwise, you will be just constantly dehumidifying outside air.
A crawlspace dehumidifier is installed in the encapsulated crawl space, positioned for optimum air circulation. Its fan circulates the clean & dry air throughout the area. This keeps crawl space humidity levels down.