Alternatives to encapsulating a crawl space
So I am in the process of planing a custom home. The builder is suggesting that the mechanicals go in a vented crawlspace. Everything I have read about a crawl space says to encapsulate it which would mean that this plan would not be possible. Are there alternatives to encapsulation? Such as perhaps insulating under the house and putting zip sheathing there? Or encapsulating part of the crawlspace but not the mechanical area? Another issue is that the crawl space would be 4 feet tall in total but with a step down into it so I am worried about water. I would appreciate all comments and advice. Thanks in advance! Edit to add additional information: The house is in Maryland and will be on a creek so fairly near water but 10+ higher than the water and not in a 100 year flood risk area.
Replies
If you don't encapsulate the crawlspace, it should be treated as an "exterior" - so why would you want to put mechanicals in an exterior space. It's a terrible idea from an efficiency standpoint, and also a paint to do any kind of maintenance @ 4 feet height.
Best bet is to encapsulate, or put the mechanicals inside somewhere.
And if you don't encapsulate you should air seal and insulate between the house and the crawlspace.
Your mechanicals should go inside the conditioned envelope of the house. An encapsulated crawlspace is a good location for mechanicals.