If you live in an older home in Illinois, there’s a good chance your foundation includes a crawl space. These spaces can be vulnerable to moisture due to heavy spring rains, winter snowmelt, and high humidity levels. Homeowners in Bloomington, Peoria, Collinsville, and Springfield often don’t realize there’s a problem until the damage is done.

At Tiger, we specialize in diagnosing and solving crawl space moisture issues. In this blog, we’ll explore why water in your crawl space is more than a nuisance, and how you can protect your home from long-term harm.

Why Water in Your Crawl Space Is a Problem

Moisture in your crawl space doesn’t just stay hidden. It spreads. The impact can be structural, environmental, and even health related. Here’s why it needs immediate attention:

• Structural Damage – Water can weaken the wooden beams and joists under your home, leading to sagging floors or shifting foundations over time.

• Mold & Mildew – Dark, damp conditions create the perfect environment for mold growth. Crawl space mold removal becomes essential if spores start spreading through your home’s air.

• Pests – Moisture attracts insects, rodents, and other pests that can chew through insulation, wiring, and wood.

• Energy Efficiency – Wet crawl spaces disrupt the insulation and temperature balance beneath your home, forcing HVAC systems to work harder and increasing your utility bills.

• Potential Health Concerns – Mold spores and poor air circulation can worsen allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions.

Common Causes of Water in Crawl Spaces

Water buildup in a crawl space often stems from more than one issue. Understanding these common causes can help you take action before damage sets in:

• Poor Drainage – Ineffective exterior drainage can lead to water pooling around your foundation and seeping into the crawl space.

• Foundation Cracks – Even small cracks in foundation walls or footings can let water inside during heavy rainfall.

• Plumbing Leaks – A slow leak from a pipe can introduce constant moisture. Tiger offers expert leak detection and repair to resolve the problem at its source.

• Humidity – High humidity levels, especially in summer, can cause condensation to form along surfaces in the crawl space.

• Grading and Property Slope – Improper slope around your home can direct water toward your foundation instead of away from it.

Solutions for Water in Your Crawl Space

Every home is different, which is why we take a customized approach to crawl space waterproofing. Here are the most effective solutions we provide:

• Sump Pump Installation – Installing a sump pump can keep water out by collecting and redirecting it away from your home. Our licensed plumbers can repair or install the right pump for your property.

• Crawl Space Waterproofing – Crawl space waterproofing services help seal out moisture, prevent mold growth, and support better air quality throughout your home.

• Improving Ventilation – Adequate airflow prevents condensation and helps maintain a dry crawl space. Our team can assess and upgrade your crawl space ventilation if needed.

• Foundation and Drainage Repairs – Sealing cracks and adjusting exterior drainage can eliminate water entry points and prevent future problems.

• Insulation Replacement – Wet or damaged insulation should be replaced to maintain comfort and energy efficiency in your home.

Choosing Tiger for Your Home’s Crawl Space Solutions

Tiger has been serving homeowners in Illinois for years. From Springfield to Collinsville, we understand the unique challenges of maintaining a home in this climate. Our technicians are fully licensed, experienced, and equipped to handle everything from minor moisture concerns to complete crawl space waterproofing and repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a crawl space?
A crawl space is a narrow, unfinished area beneath your home that provides access to plumbing, wiring, and structural components.

Does every home have a crawl space?
No. Some homes are built on slab foundations or have full basements instead of crawl spaces.

Should crawl spaces be vented?
In many cases, yes. Ventilation can help reduce moisture buildup, but it depends on the design of your home and the condition of the space.

How do you seal a crawl space?
Sealing a crawl space involves removing debris, repairing any structural damage, installing a vapor barrier, improving drainage, and sometimes adding a dehumidifier. For peace of mind, Tiger offers professional crawl space sealing and waterproofing services tailored to Illinois homes.

Schedule Your Service with Tiger

Water in your crawl space can affect your home’s value, comfort, and health. Don’t wait to take action. Tiger is your trusted local expert in crawl space waterproofing, sump pump installation, and leak detection across Bloomington, Peoria, Collinsville, and Springfield.

Call Tiger at (618) 266-3277 or schedule your service online to protect your home today.