I don't want burst water pipes in the crawl space due to freezing temps. On the other hand, I don't want excessive moisture build up- I've received advice both ways, what's right?
2007-11-16 15:59:05 · 5 answers · asked by jbean444 3 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
Board them up, then remove the boards in the spring.
2007-11-16 16:06:09 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Dont close them.
Ive done a bit of work in the manufactured home industry... know one of the quickest ways to void a warranty? no cross venting.
Wonder why?
Because that moisture gets trapped under the home... it has nowhere to go, and comes up thru the home. Closing the vents is a good way to cause your floor joists, and sub floor to warp, let alone what comes up in the wall cavities.
I have always advocated putting in a moisture barrier too.
You'd be better off installing heat tape and insulation on any exposed water lines, and insulate the floor space, if it isnt already.
Ive been in several places where the owner was in the habit of closing the vents for winter - and they couldnt figure out why the floors were warped. If you're renting, its the landlord's problem, but if you own it - you're going to pay for it down the road, either by having to rip out the floors, or a loss in sale price when you try to sell it.
Have Fun
2007-11-16 20:02:04 · answer #2 · answered by thewrangler_sw 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes it would be good to close them up if the temperature is going to be below 40 degrees. You may also want to consider installing a ground laid vapor barrier to block moisture from coming out of the soil.
2007-11-16 19:29:56 · answer #3 · answered by dantheman_028 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
most block vents i have installed have sliders to close them in the winter time...there is less moisture in winter air than warm summer air...
2007-11-16 22:16:08 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
We also live in Tennessee, we close ours for the winter and open them in the summer.
2007-11-16 16:39:48 · answer #5 · answered by judy_derr38565 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋