Back To Home

How to Dry Out Under House

Written By

Carmen

/

Have you ever walked into your basement or crawl space only to find that it’s flooded with water? If so, then you know all too well the havoc this can cause in terms of damage to furniture and other possessions as well as moisture seeping up from below causing mold and mildew.

How to Dry Out Under House

Not to mention expensive repair bills. But could there be a way for homeowners themselves to remedy this situation rather than having to call out the professionals? Yes, indeed – and in today’s blog we discuss one such method – how to dry out under house!

7 Best Methods on How to Dry Out Under House

1. Open Windows and Doors: 

The first step in drying out your basement or crawl space should be to open all the windows, vents, and doors to allow for good ventilation in the area. This will help draw out moisture from the atmosphere as well as provide fresh air circulation. If you remain living in the home during this process, it is recommended to open windows and doors on opposite sides of the house (if possible) to create a cross-ventilation effect.

2. Use Fans: 

Using fans will help speed up the drying process significantly and are especially useful if moisture levels are high. Place ceiling or standup fans in the area and turn them on high to circulate moist air through the space. This will help accelerate moisture evaporation and draw out dampness from the walls and floors.

3. Dehumidifier: 

Using a dehumidifier can be extremely effective for low-lying areas, such as basements or crawl spaces, as it works by pulling out moisture from the air and collecting it in a tank to be emptied. Make sure to do regular checks on your dehumidifier to make sure it is working properly, as well as empty its tank regularly.

Using a Dehumidifier

4. Increase Sunlight: 

If possible, you can also increase sunlight in the area to help dry out the space quickly. Try to open up curtains and blinds during sunny days or even add additional windows if your crawl spaces already don’t have enough natural light. For increasing sunlight in your basement, you can also opt for lighting fixtures that have a higher level of brightness.

5. Install Ventilator Fans: 

Installing ventilator fans, commonly known as air movers or exhaust fans, in the area can be an effective way of increasing air circulation and drying out the space. Make sure to place the fans near the area most affected by water damage, such as near pools of standing water or where moisture has settled into walls and furniture.

6. Repair Leaks: 

It is important to assess any plumbing or roofing leaks that may have caused the flooding in the first place. Repairing any visible damage and then running a dehumidifier should help dry out this area quickly. Sometimes it may be necessary to hire a professional plumber or roofer for these repairs.

7. Use Absorbent Materials: 

Finally, you can also use absorbent materials such as sponges and towels to wick out any remaining moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Change out the absorbent materials regularly until the area is completely dry.

By following these steps, you can effectively dry out your basement or crawl space and keep it from becoming a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Implementing a few preventative measures along with periodic maintenance checks will help ensure that this area remains dry and habitable all year round.

Some Other Tips and Tricks to Dry Out Under House

Install a Sump Pump
  1. Make sure to ventilate the area properly. Open windows and doors if possible, and use fans or dehumidifiers to circulate air and help remove moisture from the space.
  2. Seal any cracks or openings that could be allowing water into the area with caulk or other sealing material. This will help prevent future water damage and make it easier to keep the area dry.
  3. Use a sump pump if necessary. If there is any standing water in your crawlspace, a sump pump can help remove it quickly and efficiently so that you can begin drying out the space.
  4. Consider waterproofing the space to prevent future flooding. Coat the walls and floor of your crawlspace with a waterproof sealant, or install a sump pump system to help keep water out.
  5. Use dehumidifiers or air conditioners to further reduce moisture levels in the air. If you’re having trouble getting the humidity levels down, these tools can be very helpful in removing excess moisture from the air and keeping it dry.
  6. Check for any hidden water damage or leaks that may have gone undetected. Use a flashlight to check underneath floors and in tight spaces, and if you find any evidence of water damage, contact a professional immediately to address the issue before it gets worse.
  7. Consider using a sealant or vapor barrier to further protect against future water damage. A good quality sealant or vapor barrier can help keep moisture out and prevent any excess water from entering the space.
  8. Monitor your crawlspace regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and other issues that may arise from continued exposure to moisture. If you see any of these signs, take steps to address the issue immediately in order to avoid further damage.

By following these tips and tricks, you should be able to dry out your crawlspace and keep it dry for years to come. Don’t hesitate to contact a professional if needed — they can help identify any potential problems and provide solutions to help you keep the area dry. Good luck!

Things You Should Consider While Drying Out Under House

Removing Any Puddles or Pools of Water
  1. Start off by determining the source of water under your house. The sooner you can identify the cause and start to address it, the easier it will be to dry out the area beneath your home. Depending on how much water is present, a professional plumber may need to be employed for this job. 
  2. If the source of water is a plumbing leak, you should hire a plumber to repair it as soon as possible. This will help prevent further damage and allow for more effective drying out of your house’s foundation.
  3. Once the problem is resolved, you can begin removing any standing water from under your home using a wet/dry vacuum. This is the best way to ensure that all the water is removed and the area is completely dry.
  4. After removing any puddles or pools of water, use fans and dehumidifiers to help air out and dry out the area beneath your house. You want to make sure that all dampness has been removed before attempting to replace any insulation, flooring, or other materials that were damaged.
  5. If the area is still damp after a few days, you may need to use a specialized waterproofing solution on your house’s foundation and surrounding walls to ensure that no further water damage occurs. This can help prevent mold from growing in the future.
  6. Finally, once all water has been removed and the area is dry, you can begin to repair any damage that might have occurred as a result of the flooding. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may need to replace flooring or insulation, or even hire a contractor to patch up cracks in your foundation.  There are also many waterproofing products available that can help protect your home from future flooding.

By following these considerations, you can ensure that your home is dried out and protected from future water damage.  If at any time you are unsure about your ability to dry the house on your own, it may be best to contact a professional for help with the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dangers Associated With Water Damage? 

Yes, water damage can be dangerous if left untreated for extended periods of time. Mold growth is one of the most common dangers associated with water damage, as it can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. Additionally, standing water can cause wood rot and other structural damage to your home if left untreated.

Mold Growth is Common Dangers

What Are the Most Effective Methods for Drying Out Under My House? 

The most effective methods for drying out under your house will depend on the size of the affected area, as well as the materials used in construction. Generally, the best methods for drying out an area are air circulation and dehumidification. 

Air circulation can be achieved by opening windows and doors to allow fresh air to move through the space, while dehumidification involves using machines that remove moisture from the air. In more severe cases of water damage, you may need to call a professional restoration company for specialized drying equipment.

Conclusion

Knowing how to dry out under house is important to protect your home from further damage. Air circulation and dehumidification are the most effective methods for drying out a space, however, more severe cases may require specialized drying equipment.

If you suspect water damage in or around your home, it is recommended that you contact a professional restoration company for assistance. Doing so can help mitigate the risks associated with water damage and help ensure your home is safe and secure.

Leave a Comment