What Is That Smell Coming From My Crawlspace?

What’s That Smell? Why Your Crawlspace Might Be the Culprit

If you’ve noticed a musty smell wafting through your home, especially after it rains or when the humidity climbs, your crawlspace could be to blame. Many homeowners don’t realize just how much their crawlspace affects the air they breathe. In fact, up to 50% of the air in your home can come from below it—so when that space smells bad, your house often follows.

So… why does it smell?

That musty odor is usually a sign of excess moisture, and where there’s moisture, there’s often mold, mildew, or even wood rot. Crawlspaces are notorious for trapping humidity, especially in the Southeast where the climate is warm and damp. Combine that with poor ventilation, uncovered dirt floors, and plumbing leaks, and you’ve got a recipe for musty air.

Signs to look out for:

• Musty or damp smells, especially near floors or vents

• Increased allergies or respiratory issues indoors

• Visible mold or mildew around floor joists or insulation

• Condensation on HVAC ducts or plumbing under your home

• High humidity inside your home, even when your thermostat is set correctly

• Warped floors or soft spots near entryways

If you're noticing one or more of these signs, it's time to take a closer look. A damp crawlspace isn't just an inconvenience—it can lead to serious structural issues and affect your indoor air quality.

How Lowcountry Foundation Repair Can Help

At Lowcountry Foundation Repair, we specialize in permanent solutions for crawlspace moisture. Our team offers free inspections to identify the root of the problem. Once we assess your space, we’ll recommend a custom solution that may include:

• Crawlspace encapsulation – sealing off the space with a vapor barrier to block out moisture

• Dehumidifier installation – keeping the humidity levels in check year-round

• Drainage improvements – directing water away from your foundation before it becomes a problem

• Mold treatment and wood repair, if needed

Our goal is to help you protect your home and breathe easier. With the right fix, that musty smell can be gone for good—and your crawlspace can become a dry, clean, and healthy part of your home.

Don’t ignore that smell. Give us a call or schedule your free inspection online today. Your nose—and your home—will thank you.