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Written by Tina Boyle; Updated December 09, 2018
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For most homeowners wishing to convert a crawl space into a storage area, moisture is going to be the main impediment. Your crawl space may not have a moisture problem, but there’s only one way to know: get down there and assess things. Look for evidence of mold—on the walls, joists, ductwork or insulation. A slab is a cold mess, a crawl space insnt that much cheaper than a full basement. The footers are the same size. All you need is more dirt removed and a floor.
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Slab or crawl-space foundations present about the same number of advantages and disadvantages, so the choice you make largely depends on your personal preference. However, if a person struggles with climbing stairs, a slab foundation might be better because crawl spaces add height and steps to negotiate. Which foundation works best also depends in part on the region in which you live.
Slab Advantages
Homes built on slabs have less risk of flooding or leaking gases, which creates a healthier environment than homes built over crawl spaces and basements that are susceptible to flooding, gas leaks and mold. Slabs often eliminate the need for extra steps because they are lower to the ground. Senior citizens or people with physical restrictions are attracted to one-level homes that don't have a lot of steps to climb.
Slab Disadvantages
Shifting soil, invasive tree roots and earthquakes pose serious problems for homes constructed on slabs. Any cracks in the foundation can cause major, long-term issues that are often very difficult and costly to repair. Slabs are prone to insect infestations as well.
Crawl Space Advantages
Crawl spaces can work well in dry climates, and they are generally less expensive to build than basements. Well-insulated crawl spaces built with mold-resistant materials and proper ventilation for your region offer more storage space than a slab but less than a basement.
Crawl Space Disadvantages
Crawl spaces that aren't insulated properly from elements attract moisture, mold and rodents. Vented crawl spaces in homes located in drier climates tend to pose fewer issues than insulated and sealed crawl spaces in humid locations, but none of them yield impressive energy savings compared to homes designed with insulated floors built on slab or over a finished basement. If you must choose a crawl space design for your California home, choose a sealed crawl space that discourages mold and saves energy.
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About the Author
Tina Boyle has been writing since 2000. Trained as a journalist, she has traveled to over 150 US cities. She specializes in travel, culture, pets, business and social networking and regularly publishes in newspapers, magazines and on Web sites. She received a Bachelor of Arts in writing from the College of Santa Fe.
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Boyle, Tina. 'The Advantages & Disadvantages of a House Built on a Slab Vs. a Crawl Space.' Home Guides | SF Gate, http://homeguides.sfgate.com/advantages-disadvantages-house-built-slab-vs-crawl-space-36388.html. 09 December 2018.
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Boyle, Tina. (2018, December 09). The Advantages & Disadvantages of a House Built on a Slab Vs. a Crawl Space. Home Guides | SF Gate. Retrieved from http://homeguides.sfgate.com/advantages-disadvantages-house-built-slab-vs-crawl-space-36388.html
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Boyle, Tina. 'The Advantages & Disadvantages of a House Built on a Slab Vs. a Crawl Space' last modified December 09, 2018. http://homeguides.sfgate.com/advantages-disadvantages-house-built-slab-vs-crawl-space-36388.html
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