It's dark, cramped and most people never go down there — which is exactly why so many problems start in the crawl space. Mark goes where others won't.
Crawl spaces are common in Middle Tennessee homes, and they hold a lot of important components: floor framing, piers and beams, plumbing, ductwork, insulation and the vapor barrier. They're also where moisture, mold, rot and pests often go unnoticed.
A crawl space inspection from Home Inspections by SP&D is a focused evaluation of this area. Mark Schumacher enters the crawl space when it's safe and accessible, takes moisture readings and documents conditions with photos you probably wouldn't see any other way.
Because air from the crawl space can move up into the living space, conditions down there can affect comfort, odors and indoor air quality.
Common crawl space conditions that deserve attention.
Damp soil, puddles, condensation and high humidity.
Joists, sills and subfloor affected by moisture or damage.
Missing, torn or incomplete ground covers.
Evidence of rodents, termites and other wood-destroying insects.
Middle Tennessee's humid climate can lead to damp crawl spaces, especially where drainage is poor or the vapor barrier is missing. Moisture can lead to wood rot, mold growth, sagging floors and musty odors.
Crawl spaces also house ductwork and plumbing. Disconnected ducts can waste energy and add humidity, while small plumbing leaks can go undetected for months.
Mark's photos give you a clear look at what's beneath the home and help you decide whether repairs, drainage improvements or encapsulation are worth considering.
Mark evaluates the crawl space when safely accessible, including:
Yes, when it can be entered safely. If access is blocked, too small or hazardous, Mark evaluates what he can from the entrance and notes the limitation.
It can be. Ongoing moisture can lead to rot, mold and pest problems. Identifying the source — drainage, plumbing leaks or humidity — is the first step.
It depends on the conditions. Mark can describe what he observes, and a crawl space contractor can discuss options like drainage improvements, vapor barriers or encapsulation.
Mark watches for visible evidence of wood-destroying insects during any crawl space inspection. A dedicated termite and WDO inspection is also available.
Mark goes underneath so you don't have to.
Call 561-301-7571 and make sure the crawl space access is clear.
Mark evaluates framing, moisture, plumbing, ducts and the vapor barrier.
See exactly what's beneath your home through detailed photos.
Learn what needs repair and which contractor to call.
Crawl Space Inspections • TN License #1374 • InterNACHI Certified • Serving Nashville & Middle Tennessee