If you’re about to become a homeowner, you’ve probably wondered about crawl spaces and how they differ from basements, for instance.
Well, basements are bigger, they have windows, and you can even use them to store items or as workshops.
On the other hand, crawl spaces are only big enough to crawl, so you can’t turn them into workshops, but you can store some things. And what about the windows, you might ask? Do crawl spaces have windows?
Yes, some crawl spaces have windows. However, most people prefer not to install ones because of the consequences.
In this article, we’ll go over those consequences and give you some tips on how to deal with them. So, let’s start!
Are Windows in Crawl Spaces Necessary?
The thought of a small, closed area with no windows whatsoever can be truly daunting. Nevertheless, crawl spaces don’t actually need windows.
Essentially, they’re designed to support your home’s structure and keep it from resting directly on the ground. Moreover, you could use them when repairs are needed in the house, such as heating and plumbing.
So, windows in crawl spaces aren’t necessary because they don’t serve any vital function. And because of that, you won’t see many crawl spaces designed with them in mind.
Should You Install a Window in Your Crawl Space?
As we mentioned earlier, there isn’t any reason for you to install a window in your crawl space.
However, if you still feel the need to do so, you’ll have to take a look at our list of advantages and disadvantages!
First, the advantages:
1 – A Light Source
One of the main advantages of having a window in your crawl space is that it’ll light up the place for you. Usually, the area will be well-lit if you ever need to fix something or store an item or two.
You should keep in mind, though, that the amount of light in the crawl space will be limited. After all, it’s located beneath the ground floor, so it’s harder for the light to reach.
2 – Fresh Air
Another advantage of having a window in your crawl space is that it allows for fresh air.
This helps to reduce musty and damp odors, as well as the growth of mold and mildew, which a lack of fresh air can cause.
Additionally, it can help reduce the moisture in the air, which is beneficial as both can lead to structural damage over time.
Now let’s take a look at the disadvantages:
1 – It Can Let in Rain, Snow, and Debris
The biggest problem with crawl space windows is that they can easily let in all sorts of elements that can wreak havoc inside your home.
For instance, they can let in the rain, leading to wood rot and other structural damage. It can also increase humidity levels, which in turn can cause mildew to grow.
The same could be said for snow. If it accumulates inside the crawl space, it can create a damp environment conducive to mold growth and other problems.
The weight of the snow can also cause damage to the window frames.
2 – Bugs Can Make It an Entry Point
Unless it’s properly sealed and closed off tightly, the crawl space window can be a prime entry point for all kinds of little pests.
They can quickly come in through the window and find their way inside your house. Sadly, this can lead to an infestation that could get out of control if not promptly handled.
Also, if the window is big enough, rodents can get in as well and cause damage.
3 – It Can Increase the Humidity Levels
Though we’ve mentioned earlier that having a window can bring in fresh air, which helps with moisture levels, this isn’t always the case—especially if the crawl space is cooler than outside.
If the humidity level outside your crawler space is higher than inside, and the window allows the air to come in, you may end up with a lot of moisture.
As we mentioned earlier, this can lead to problems like mold growth, which can cause health problems if left untreated.
How to Avoid Problems With Crawl Space Windows
Luckily for you, there are some steps you can take to ensure your crawlspace stays dry and mold-free. First, all you have to do is install a crawl space ventilation fan!
However, it can’t be any fan because most will only move hot, humid air from outside to inside. So instead, you’ll need to purchase one with a dew point detector.
This way, you can be sure that the air coming into your crawl space won’t be too moist. For extra protection, you can also use a vapor barrier to keep the moisture from seeping into your home foundation.
Finally, to keep the bugs out, you must ensure that the fan is adequately sealed from all directions.
Final Thoughts
So, do crawl spaces have windows?
If you’ve reached this far, then you know that the answer is both a yes and a no. That’s because some crawl spaces have windows, and some don’t.
What’s more important to know is that you don’t need a window in your crawl space as much as you need a ventilation fan that can circulate the air.
A fan with a dew point monitor can really help keep your crawl space dry and mold-free.
I have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems and over 10 years of experience working in IT. As a homeowner, I love working on projects around the house, and as a father, I love investigating various ways to keep my family safe (whether or not this involves tech). I’ve also played guitar for almost 20 years and love writing music, although it’s hard to find the time these days.