Crawl Space - Vent or close and insulate?

Question

I just purchased my 1st rental property this month.  It's a SFH in Lima, OH.  It sits on a crawl space.  The inspector report says

"Improper venting was found in the crawl space. This will allow a handle of mildew and mold grow as air cannot properly vent through the structure. We recommend vents be properly installed to allow air flow to move inside the crawl space."

I've been reading online and have found people not venting their crawl space and instead closing it up and insulating it.  Opinions?  Thoughts?

Caleb Fledderjohann · Answer

@Keith Lewis great thanks.  I appreciate the insight.

Keith Lewis · Answer

Since it's Lima. OH where it snows A LOT, realize that your flooring over the crawlspace is extremely affected by the moisture and cold than will occur. Use a floating floor system of either click lock or sheet vinyl that is loose lay or perimeter glued to avoid issues during the winter months. Insulating helps but won't cure this issue.

Caleb Fledderjohann · Answer

Thanks all for taking the time to provide feedback.

Pat L. · Answer

Up here if the crawlspace flooring is not sealed you will have moisture & could also experience standing water via hydrostatic pressure. Friend had a new addition built on a crawlspace & it has been a moisture/water nightmare. They even had to put a sump pump.

The crawlspace was supposedly sealed, vented & insulated. When we did our addition 12 years ago I opted for the full basement for that  very reason.

Dawn Brenengen · Answer

@Caleb Fledderjohann  I would cost compare.  Sealing the crawlspace would be ideal, but it's not really necessary unless you are having moisture issues.  If it's incredibly cheaper to just install the proper vents, I would just do that.

Terrell Garren · Answer

Ha! A question right up there with 'What's the best religion, Christian or Muslim?'

I've read or listened to more articles, radio discussions and podcasts than you can shake a stick at regarding this.  Most all have a strong opinion one way or the other and they will meet you somewhere to fight about it if you like.

I'm with @Theresa Harris.  If the crawl is not professionally sealed, it needs to breath by venting. I leave my vents open year round on properties in NC.  Never a problem.

Theresa Harris · Answer

You can insulate it and leave a couple of vents to allow for air flow.  The vents can be a small grate with screen/mesh behind it to prevent critters from entering the crawl space.  The insulation will help keep it a bit warmer.