Crawl Space Doors: How to Choose the Right One
Did you know that 15% of homes have crawlspaces? If your home has one of these spaces, you may be wondering about crawl space doors and which is best for your needs.
Your crawlspace is an integral part of your home, and access is critical. From pests to plumbing, you need to check this assuming area from time to time. If you don’t, you risk water damage and infestations!
To learn more about how to use your crawl space and the best crawl space doors, keep reading!
Go for Lightweight Doors
Wondering what to use your crawl space for? This small space, which sits right beneath the base level of your home, serves a variety of functions. Lightweight crawl space doors can make accessing it easier.
Technicians may use the crawl space to address HVAC issues or install new parts. It’s also prime territory for electrical wiring or plumbing. And, for the homeowner, it can be a place to store patio pavers and random garden tools!
Lightweight access doors made of PVC are easy to install and even easier to open. Imagine that you’ve just experienced a significant downpour. If you want to check water in crawl space areas, you don’t want to waste time with a heavy door.
Match the Materials to the Climate
You can get the best crawl space doors made of anything from lumber to metal. But choosing the right materials may boil down to where you live. For instance, untreated wood may start rotting if you live in a humid climate.
Similarly, crawl space doors that lack tight seals may let in moisture. Since you breathe the air from your crawl space, you’ll need a good dehumidifier. Look for doors that identify as waterproof and moisture resistant.
While you’re at it, look into crawl space doors with ventilation. Quality options will let you seal the vents during the winter months. And the vents may help improve airflow in and below your house.
Crawl Space Doors Should Blend In
Crawl space doors may be visible to passersby. To maintain strong curb appeal, look for doors that blend in with the surrounding foundation and color scheme. In other words, avoid choosing a bright white plastic door if the rest of your home is a muted gray.
While aesthetically pleasing crawl space doors will enhance your property, don’t forgo basic needs. The door should form a tight seal with its frame. And it should be firmly embedded within the foundation.
Consider Insulated Crawl Space Doors
Especially if you live in a cold climate, you’ll want an insulated barrier. Turn to weather stripping to create strong seals. Plug holes where plumbing pipes enter the space.
Apply foil insulation board to the inside of the door. You can retrofit a PVC door this way to boost insulating properties.
A door with strong seals, hinges, and a good padlock is a security barrier, too. You’ll keep out annoying pests, like raccoons, that could cause damage. And you’ll dissuade criminals from trying to break in.
Find the Best Crawl Space Doors
Adding the right crawl space doors to your property is a worthy investment. You’ll provide a clear access point for HVAC technicians and plumbers looking to address water problems. Plus you’ll be able to keep pests out if you use the crawl space for storage.
Check back for more articles that will help you get the most out of your home!
