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How Much Does Crawl Space Encapsulation Cost? (2024)

By Amanda Lutz Updated August 2, 2024

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A crawl space encapsulation installation costs $8,250 on average but can run you between $1,500 and $15,000, depending on the project. Encapsulation is a form of crawl space or basement waterproofing that keeps moisture and humid air from entering your house and compromising your foundation and air quality. Read our guide to learn more about the cost factors of crawl space encapsulation.

 

Note: Cost data in this article was sourced from Angi, HomeAdvisor, and Fixr.

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Crawl Space Encapsulation Major Cost Factors

The main factors determining this project’s cost include crawl space size, crawl space condition, and the materials required for waterproofing.

Cost by Size of Crawl Space

Larger crawl spaces require more materials and labor to fully encapsulate. The larger the surface area that needs waterproofing, the more you’ll pay.

Depending on the project, you may pay anywhere from $2 to $10 per square foot. Here’s a cost breakdown by square footage:

Size in Sq. Ft.	Cost Range
500	$1,000–$5,000
1,000	$2,000–$10,000
1,500	$3,000–$15,000
2,000	$4,000–$20,000
2,500	$5,000–$25,000
3,000	$6,000–$30,000

Cost by Features and Materials

An encapsulation system requires a variety of materials depending on your crawl space’s moisture levels. Low humidity levels may only require the installation of thin plastic moisture barriers, while more substantial issues could call for a new drainage system. Here are some of the most common materials necessary to complete a project:

• Dehumidifier: Installing a built-in dehumidification system helps combat high humidity and prevent mold growth.
• Ductwork: Extending your HVAC system into your crawl space helps control the humidity, but this can be a relatively pricey undertaking if you need to add new ductwork.
• Insulation: The most cost-effective insulation is fiberglass batt, but it’s not very durable. Rigid foam board and spray foam insulation are more durable and high-performance but are also more expensive.
• Sump pump: If standing water regularly collects in your crawl space, a sump pump can expel it from your home. The pump is relatively inexpensive, but you may need to dig a pit to connect it to your plumbing, which will increase total costs.
• Vapor barrier: Polyethylene plastic sheeting can be used to line crawl space walls and floors to act as a waterproof barrier. The thicker the plastic, the more durable and expensive it will be. Use waterproof bond tape to help seal the edges.
• Vent covers: Crawl space vents are designed to help siphon some humidity out of the space, but if you’re sealing off and mechanically ventilating the space, you’ll need special covers to prevent air leaks.

Here’s how these encapsulation materials break down by price:

Material	Cost Range
Vapor barrier	$0.50–$0.70 per sq. ft.
Insulation	$0.60–$4.50 per sq. ft.
Vent covers	$15–$22 each
Bond tape	$50 per roll
Ductwork (incl. installation)	$450–$2,000
Sump pump (incl. installation)	$650–$1,800
Dehumidifier (incl. installation)	$1,300–$2,800

Cost by Condition of Crawl Space

Your project will cost more if your crawl space has suffered water damage or needs repairs. Neglected crawl spaces may require the following services that come with additional costs:

• Drainage system installation: You may need a French drain or drain tile system in addition to a sump pump to collect water and expel it from your crawl space. An interior system will be less expensive to install than an exterior system.
• Floor joist replacement: If you’ve had ongoing and severe moisture problems, your floor joists may be in bad condition. This is a substantial repair project, but it may be necessary to ensure your home’s stability.
• Foundation repair: A crawl space typically serves as a home’s foundation and can begin to bow or crack if drainage in the surrounding soil is poor. You may need to reinforce the walls or underpin the entire foundation to preserve your home’s structural integrity.
• Mold remediation: Mold-removal professionals know how to properly rid your home of infected material without spreading dangerous spores.
• Pest control: Homeowners should address pest infestations—an occasional consequence of excess moisture—before proceeding with any other crawl space repair. A one-time pest control visit might cost a few hundred dollars, but a widespread termite infestation can ultimately cost thousands to fumigate.
• Radon mitigation: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can enter basements, crawl spaces, and ground floors from the ground. You can mitigate radon buildup with active suction or passive depressurization systems.

Here’s how much you can expect to pay for the above services:

Service	Cost Range
Termite control	$230–$2,500
Pest control	$300–$550
Radon mitigation	$770–$1,200
Mold remediation	$1,500–$9,000
Exterior french drain	$2,000–$10,000
Foundation repair	$2,100–$7,800
Interior french drain	$3,000–$8,000
Joist replacement	$5,000–$20,000

 

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How to Estimate the Total Cost of Your Crawl Space Encapsulation Project

To approximate crawl space encapsulation cost, measure the dimensions of your crawl space and multiply your findings by $2 and then by $10. The lower end of that range is likely to get you a thin vapor barrier and some basic insulation and ventilation. The high end of that range will likely cover vapor barriers, drainage, spray foam insulation, and thorough dehumidification.

Many crawl space and waterproofing contractors offer free inspections and estimates if you want a better idea of what you need and what it will cost. If you suspect you have foundation damage, you may want to hire an independent structural engineer—an expert who doesn’t do repairs—to provide an unbiased report.

 

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Professional vs. DIY Crawl Space Encapsulation

Some facets of an encapsulation project are DIY-friendly, but we recommend hiring waterproofing professionals for the heavy-duty work.

Professional Crawl Space Encapsulation 

Hiring professional contractors means paying more, but contractors know the permits, equipment, and materials that are necessary to complete your encapsulation project. Some manufacturers’ warranties require professional installation of the waterproofing system for the warranty to be in effect, and many contractors offer workmanship warranties of their own. If the stability of your home’s foundation is at all in question, hiring a pro is essential.

DIY Crawl Space Encapsulation

If you want to get a head start on the project, clean the crawl space and remove water-damaged materials. You can also take on some of the finishing tasks, such as applying waterproof paint. You may save money by purchasing heavy-duty waterproofing materials ahead of time for the contractor to use.

 

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How to Reduce Crawl Space Encapsulation Costs

You can save on the project’s total cost with the following tips:

• Do as much of the preparation and cleanup work as you can.
• Most contractors offer a free inspection. We recommend getting estimates from at least three contractors before making your choice.
• Opt for less expensive materials whenever possible, and choose an interior drainage system over an exterior system.

 

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How to Hire a Professional

When comparing waterproofing contractors, here are some things to keep in mind:

• All contractors should be bonded and insured.
• Ask about project timelines, workmanship warranties, and financing.
• Check out the company’s Better Business Bureau page for more information on the company’s history as well as its rating and accreditation status. Read additional reviews on Trustpilot or Google Reviews.
• Hire someone with a regular contractor’s license.
• Request an itemized estimate so you know where your money is going.

 

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Our Recommendation

Most homeowners find that this waterproofing job is worth the cost to protect their home’s foundation from water, mold, and pests. It is ultimately less expensive than fixing a severely damaged foundation. Insulating this space also increases your home’s energy efficiency by reducing heating and cooling costs, so crawl space encapsulation is a good choice for homeowners who live in damp or extreme climates.

 

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