- Crawlspace finishing

Dear Shell,

We have a 4 level split home (1973 vintage) with a 4-foot crawlspace beside the 4 th level (below the 3 rd ). It was not finished and is just dirt with the footings about 4” above that. The crawl space is all beneath grade but is too damp for storage and gives a dirty, musty odor into the 4 th level. To finish it properly with concrete is too expensive and difficult. Is there a way to finish this area so it can be usable for storage and be damp and smelly? Thanks for all your ideas on the radio show. I have used many of them.

Thanks, Kevin

Dear Kevin,

First level the area with a rake making sure there are no sharp stones present. Spread 1” of dry sand over the entire area. Lay 6 mil poly over the entire sand area overlapping 12” on the seams. Run the poly up the walls approximately 12” and seal to the concrete with acoustical cement. Lay 2 x 4's over the plastic 24” on centre and nail O.S.B board to the 2x4's creating a storage floor.

It's just that easy.

Article courtesy of: Shell Busey