**Atlanta Allergies: Damp Crawlspaces Crashing Kid's Lungs?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 1, 2026

Imagine your child, bright-eyed and eager for the day, suddenly erupts in a fit of sneezing, their skin blossoming with itchy hives. You’ve tried everything: over-the-counter antihistamines, rigorous cleaning, even banishing the family pet (much to everyone’s dismay). Yet, the allergies persist, casting a shadow over your family’s well-being. The culprit might be lurking beneath your feet, in the damp, unseen world of your Atlanta crawlspace.

This isn’t just about dust bunnies and the occasional spider. In Atlanta, with its humid subtropical climate, crawlspaces are breeding grounds for mold and allergens that can wreak havoc on your family’s health. This guide is your roadmap to identifying, remediating, and preventing these hidden threats, empowering you to create a healthier home for your loved ones.

Let’s start with the basics: why are crawlspaces such a problem in Atlanta? Georgia’s high humidity, combined with poor ventilation in many crawlspaces, creates the perfect environment for mold growth. Mold spores, microscopic particles that travel through the air, are a common allergen. When inhaled, they can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory problems.

But mold isn’t the only concern. Damp crawlspaces also attract pests like rodents and insects, which can introduce additional allergens such as dust mites and cockroach droppings. These allergens can easily migrate into your living spaces through cracks in the flooring or HVAC systems.

So, how do you know if your crawlspace is contributing to your child’s allergies? The first step is a DIY inspection. Gear up with a mask, gloves, and protective eyewear. Grab a flashlight and prepare to get a little dirty.

Carefully enter your crawlspace. Look for these telltale signs:

• Visible mold growth: This can appear as fuzzy patches of black, green, brown, or white on walls, floors, or insulation.
• Musty odor: A persistent, earthy smell is a strong indicator of mold.
• Water stains or pooling water: These indicate moisture problems that need to be addressed.
• Damaged or rotting wood: This is a sign of prolonged moisture exposure and potential structural issues.
• Pest droppings or signs of infestation: Look for rodent droppings, insect carcasses, or chewed wires.

Document your findings with photos and notes. Pay close attention to areas near vents, plumbing, and the foundation walls.

Now, let’s talk about the challenges of DIY inspection. Crawlspaces are often cramped, dark, and uncomfortable. It’s easy to miss subtle signs of mold or moisture damage. Furthermore, disturbing mold can release spores into the air, potentially exacerbating allergies.

If you’re uncomfortable entering your crawlspace or suspect a significant mold problem, it’s best to call in a professional. A qualified mold inspector can conduct a thorough assessment and provide you with a detailed report.

What does professional mold remediation cost in the Atlanta metro area? Prices vary depending on the size of your crawlspace, the extent of the mold growth, and the remediation methods used. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $4,000 or more.

Be wary of companies that offer suspiciously low prices. Mold remediation is a specialized process that requires proper training and equipment. Cutting corners can lead to ineffective treatment and recurring problems.

When choosing a mold remediation company, look for these qualifications:

• Certification: The company should be certified by a reputable organization such as the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
• Experience: Choose a company with a proven track record of successful mold remediation projects in the Atlanta area.
• Insurance: Make sure the company carries adequate liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage.
• References: Ask for references from past clients and check online reviews.

Once the mold has been remediated, it’s crucial to address the underlying moisture problem to prevent recurrence. This is where preventative moisture control strategies come into play.

Here are some effective strategies for keeping your Atlanta crawlspace dry:

• Crawlspace encapsulation: This involves sealing the crawlspace with a heavy-duty vapor barrier, effectively isolating it from the outside environment. This is the most effective solution, but also the most expensive.
• Dehumidification: Installing a dehumidifier in your crawlspace can help to maintain a low humidity level, preventing mold growth. Choose a dehumidifier that is specifically designed for crawlspace use and has an automatic drainage system.
• Ventilation: Ensure that your crawlspace is properly ventilated to allow for air circulation. However, in Atlanta’s humid climate, simply opening vents may not be enough. Consider installing a powered ventilation system that actively draws air from the crawlspace.
• Grading and drainage: Make sure that the ground around your foundation slopes away from your house to prevent water from pooling near the foundation walls. Clean your gutters regularly to ensure that rainwater is properly diverted away from your home.
• Plumbing repairs: Fix any leaky pipes or plumbing fixtures in your crawlspace to eliminate sources of moisture.

Let’s delve deeper into crawlspace encapsulation. This process involves sealing the crawlspace with a thick, durable plastic liner that is attached to the foundation walls and piers. The liner acts as a vapor barrier, preventing moisture from entering the crawlspace from the ground and outside air.

Encapsulation offers several benefits:

• Mold prevention: By eliminating moisture, encapsulation prevents mold growth and reduces allergen levels.
• Improved air quality: Encapsulation helps to keep musty odors and allergens out of your living spaces.
• Energy savings: A dry crawlspace can help to reduce energy costs by preventing heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer.
• Pest control: Encapsulation makes it more difficult for pests to enter your crawlspace.

The cost of crawlspace encapsulation in Atlanta typically ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of your crawlspace and the materials used. While this is a significant investment, it can provide long-term benefits for your family’s health and the value of your home.

A common mistake homeowners make is neglecting their crawlspace. They assume that because it’s out of sight, it’s out of mind. However, a neglected crawlspace can become a breeding ground for mold, pests, and other problems that can affect your entire home.

Another pitfall is attempting to DIY mold remediation without proper training or equipment. This can be dangerous and ineffective, potentially making the problem worse.

Finally, failing to address the underlying moisture problem after mold remediation is a recipe for disaster. The mold will simply return if the conditions that allowed it to grow in the first place are not corrected.

By taking proactive steps to inspect, remediate, and prevent moisture problems in your crawlspace, you can create a healthier home for your family and alleviate your children’s allergy symptoms. Don’t let your crawlspace be a hidden source of allergens. Take control and breathe easier knowing you’ve created a safer, healthier environment for your loved ones in your Atlanta home.