If you’ve peeked into your crawlspace recently (or just caught a whiff of musty air upstairs), you might be wondering: should I encapsulate the space or just toss down a vapor barrier and call it good?
Great question—and one we hear a lot. While both approaches deal with moisture, they’re not created equal. Let’s break down the difference and help you figure out what your home actually needs.
First, What’s a Vapor Barrier?
A vapor barrier is exactly what it sounds like: a thick plastic sheet (usually 6-mil or thicker) laid across the ground in your crawlspace to block moisture from seeping up through the soil. It’s a solid first step, and it can help reduce humidity, mold risk, and that damp-earth smell you’d rather not have drifting upstairs.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to install
- Better than doing nothing
Cons:
- Doesn’t seal walls or vents
- Doesn’t control humidity from air intrusion
- Can shift, tear, or bunch up over time
So, What’s Encapsulation Then?
Encapsulation takes the concept of a vapor barrier and kicks it up several notches. Instead of just covering the floor, encapsulation seals the entire crawlspace—including the walls, support piers, and vents—with heavy-duty material. Add a commercial-grade dehumidifier and optional insulation, and now you’ve got yourself a fully controlled environment.
Encapsulation typically includes:
- Sealing the crawl space floor, walls, and any exposed surfaces
- Blocking off vents and exterior air leaks
- Installing a dehumidifier to control humidity year-round
Why Go the Extra Mile?
You might be thinking, “If a vapor barrier already helps, why would I spend more for encapsulation?” Here’s why homeowners make the leap:
1. True Moisture Control
A vapor barrier just handles ground moisture. Encapsulation blocks all external sources—ground, air, and wall seepage—creating a dry, stable space.
2. Better Air Quality
About 50% of the air in your home can come from the crawlspace. Encapsulation helps keep that air cleaner, drier, and healthier to breathe.
3. Energy Efficiency
By sealing off the space and stabilizing the temperature, your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard—saving you money on energy bills.
4. Pest Prevention
Crawlspaces are cozy for critters—especially damp ones. Encapsulation helps deter unwanted guests like rodents, spiders, and termites.
5. Long-Term Value
Encapsulation is a long-term solution that protects your home’s structure, reduces risk of mold, and may increase resale value.
So Which One Should You Choose?
If your crawlspace is in decent shape and you’re just trying to knock out some dampness, a vapor barrier might be enough—for now.
But if you’re dealing with:
- High humidity
- Signs of mold or musty air
- Pest problems
- High energy bills
- Just want a solution you don’t have to revisit every year…
Then encapsulation is 100% worth considering. It’s a bigger investment upfront, but the long-term protection and peace of mind often make it a smart move.
Need Help Deciding?
At Better Basements & Waterproofing, we specialize in both vapor barrier installs and full encapsulation systems. We’ll take a look at your crawlspace and give you honest, no-pressure advice on what your home actually needs—no upselling, no scare tactics.
Let’s make your crawlspace dry, clean, and forgettable—in the best possible way. Reach out today for a free inspection and estimate.