We are pest control management and crawl space contractors which means we see the entire picture when treating your crawl space and foundation. The reason you have fungus growing in your crawl space is that you have high humidity or a wet crawl space. Fungus and mildew require moisture to grow and thrive. With this being said, we tackle not only your fungus removal but prevention as well. We put measures in place to eliminate fungus for good.
That’s a fair question, after all, who spends time in their crawl spaces? Well, it’s more important than you think. Fungus is a rapidly growing fungus that feeds directly on your wood foundation including structural floor joists. This can cause extreme wood decay and a weakened foundation. On top of that, fungus spores can travel and circulate making their way into your home causing respiratory problems and fungus growth inside your home if humidity levels are too high. Think of fungus spores like seeds. Everywhere they land, they can grow and flourish if they have the right conditions.
Safe for People, Deadly for Pests:
Borate is safe for people and pets but disrupts the digestion of insects and fungi, killing them when they try to feed on treated wood.
Absorbs Deep into Wood:
Borate seeps deeply into the wood when applied, making it great for long-lasting protection, even in hard-to-reach areas like crawlspaces.
Prepare the Wood:
Make sure the wood is clean and dry, as moisture can dilute the borate. Brush off any existing fungus or mold.
Mix and Apply the Borate Solution:
Borate usually comes as a powder or concentrated liquid. Follow the instructions to mix it with water, then apply it to wood surfaces using a brush, roller, or sprayer. Focus on areas like crawlspaces, attics, and the wooden frame.
Apply Multiple Coats if Needed:
Some borate treatments need more than one coat for better protection. Let each coat dry before applying the next.
Long-Lasting Protection:
Once dried, borate remains in the wood for extended periods, especially if the wood remains dry.
Prevents Fungal Growth:
Borate is also effective against fungi, which can weaken wood over time.
Allow Time to Dry:
Give the treated surfaces adequate time to dry before closing the crawlspace. Avoid contact with treated areas until fully dry.
Monitor Ventilation and Moisture:
If a moisture barrier is not already on the crawlspace floor, we may recommend installing one to help control humidity. Also, check that the ventilation vents are working effectively.
In conclusion, fungus growth in your crawl space should be taken seriously. Not only does it have the potential to cause significant health issues, but it can also result in costly damage to your home if left unchecked. Call Commonwealth Pest Management at 804-435-3373.