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I would like experts opinions on the following.
I live in Columbia South Carolina where we have a very high humidity level during the summer months (>56%). This past fall I built a shop 14×14 ft. with a cinder block foundation and pressure treated wood for the floor and joists. I covered the ground with 2 mil. plastic and did not provide vents. My question is —- Should I go back and provide ventilation?
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Dear Thomas,
I don't ever want to represent that I'm a venting expert, but I've talked to some smart people about foundation venting. They don't seem to like the idea at all. Of course, you'll always find others who disagree.
It's tough being caught in the middle of this debate. And being a curious person myself, I'd install a floor hatch so I could look into the crawl space from time to time.
Dryly, Fred
*Though venting is still common (traditional)- I firmly believe no venting practice makes most sense and will be the future (with inspection door of course). Why let all that warm, moist air into a crawl in summer where it will condense on the cooler surfaces, introducing moisture and all the related problems (insects, etc.). Vapor barrier on ground and sealed to foundation is tantamount to the system.2 mil is too light and short-lived. 6 mil should do the job. I don't even open my basement windows in summer anymore (northern Michigan) so have done away with moisture, odor, condensation, most insects. Do run de-humidifier in summer though. Adds bit of heat but oh so comfortable on very humid days (no central air). Confess to opening basement windows in fall - air is dryer and I love the smell. Some thoughts. Randy
*Thanks Fred! Looks like some good info.Tom
*Thanks RandyTom
*I missed first sentence of original question. I don't consider myself an expert. Am going by experience and much reading. Have no long term science studies in hand. Suggest asking question atEnergy section of this site - there is much experience lurking there. Some more thoughts. Randy
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I would like experts opinions on the following.
I live in Columbia South Carolina where we have a very high humidity level during the summer months (>56%). This past fall I built a shop 14x14 ft. with a cinder block foundation and pressure treated wood for the floor and joists. I covered the ground with 2 mil. plastic and did not provide vents. My question is ---- Should I go back and provide ventilation?