MOISTURE CONTROL FACTS
GOOD MOISTURE RANGE IS 10%-15%
In new houses the moisture content is good. Over time, humidity slowly absorbs into the wood making it vulnerable to fungus.
BAD MOISTURE
RANGE IS OVER 19%
Once moisture reaches a saturation over 19%, fungus begins to grow, which rapidly increases the absorption rate of moisture.
MOISTURE DECAY OCCURS AT 25%
Excessive moisture is not only conducive to termite infestation, but it also can damage the structure of the house.
VIRGINIA HOMES
HUMIDITY RISKS
Virginia’s coastal humidity often pushes crawl space moisture above 60%, creating ideal conditions for fungus, wood rot, and termites—making moisture control a must for protecting your home year-round.
MOISTURE CONTROL
HAMPTON ROADS, VIRGINIA
Moisture causes wood decay and attracts pests, especially termites. In fact, it is the leading cause of termite infestation.
Serving Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Williamsburg, Hampton, Smithfield, Suffolk & Newport News
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Entry-Level Moisture Control: We will ensure that a quality ground barrier effectively covers the soil under your home. This helps prevent humidity from entering the crawl space. Often, a preventative wood decay fungus treatment will be applied to the joists and beams under the house. When appropriate, a crawl space clean-out will be recommended.
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Intermediate Moisture Control: The next step would be to seal your crawlspace. This is sometimes referred to as a "hybrid encapsulation." There are various methods of permanently sealing the foundation vents. But it is also important to ensure that a quality ground barrier is effectively covering the soil under your home. Then, a crawlspace specific dehumidifier is installed. A crawl-space clean-out is usually required.
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Extreme Moisture Control: This third level of remediation is for those situations where water is entering the crawlspace from the exterior, or by unusually high groundwater elevation. The standard approach to controlling this type of moisture utilizes underground drainage, soil regrading, sump pumps, and a complete encapsulation of the crawlspace. A crawlspace encapsulation is much more comprehensive than a sealed crawlspace, and that is reflected in the price.
PROTECT YOUR HOME
WITH PESTOUT
MOISTURE IDENTIFICATION
Know the right levels, stop damage before it starts.
Serving Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Williamsburg, Hampton, Smithfield, Suffolk & Newport News
Moisture problems often go unnoticed until they lead to costly repairs, which is why proper identification is so important. A healthy crawl space relative humidity level typically falls between 45% and 60%. Levels above 60% relative humidity can create the ideal environment for fungal growth, wood rot, and increased pest activity.
Excess moisture can slowly break down structural wood, leading to moisture decay that weakens floors, walls, and crawl spaces over time. By identifying and correcting moisture issues early, you protect your home’s structure, improve air quality, and prevent the conditions that attract unwanted pests.
SIGNS OF MOISTURE DAMAGE
PESTOUT PRO TIPS
Identify early warning signs before costly repairs
Serving Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Williamsburg, Hampton, Smithfield, Suffolk & Newport News
Moisture damage can quietly impact your home’s structure and air quality if left untreated, especially in humid areas like Hampton Roads. Recognizing the early signs helps prevent wood rot, fungus growth, and pest infestations. Watch for these common indicators of moisture damage:
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Musty Odors: A persistent damp or musty smell inside your home often indicates elevated humidity or fungal growth in the crawl space.
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High Crawl Space Humidity: Relative humidity levels above 60% create ideal conditions for wood-destroying fungi, mold growth, and pest activity.
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Wood Rot & Soft Spots: Soft, decaying floor joists, girders, or subflooring are signs of prolonged moisture exposure and can compromise the structural integrity of your home.
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Visible Fungus or Mildew: White, gray, or dark fungal growth on wooden framing members is a clear indication of excessive moisture.
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Standing Water or Damp Soil: Pooled water, wet soil, or muddy conditions in the crawl space signal drainage or moisture intrusion issues that should be addressed promptly.
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Condensation on Ductwork, Pipes, or Insulation: Water droplets forming on surfaces within the crawl space are often a sign of excessive humidity.
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Sagging or Damaged Insulation: Insulation that is wet, falling, or compressed can indicate ongoing moisture problems and reduce your home's energy efficiency.
Addressing crawl space moisture issues early helps protect your home's structural components, improve indoor air quality, and prevent costly future repairs.
HOMES AND BUSINESSES IN HAMPTON ROADS, VIRGINIA FACES UNIQUE CHALLENGES IN MOISTURE CONTROL
Moisture control isn’t always straightforward—especially in coastal and humid regions like Hampton Roads, where environmental factors constantly work against your home. Many issues develop in hidden areas, making them difficult to detect without professional evaluation. Understanding these challenges is the first step toward implementing long-term, effective moisture control solutions.
WHY MOISTURE CONTROL & PREVENTION IS IMPORTANT
Moisture control is one of the most important—and most overlooked—parts of protecting your home. Excess moisture doesn’t just cause surface issues; it creates long-term structural damage and health risks if not properly managed. Taking a proactive approach to moisture control helps preserve your home’s value while keeping your living environment safe and dry year-round.