5 Questions with Billy Tesh

1. Should all crawlspaces be closed?

That depends, if crawlspaces have at least one of the following:

a. HVAC in the crawlspace

b. High humidity

c. Part basement and part crawlspace

Then the crawlspace should be closed.

Most people complain of musty odors, hardwood floors buckling, moisture dripping off pipes and duct work. These symptoms are worst during the summer.

Areas that are extremely dry like Arizona may not have any issues with their crawlspaces. In areas that are farther north, you will have more basements because foundation footings must be dug deeper than the frost line. When that frost line is 4’-5’ deep, it makes sense to dig a few feet deeper and add a basement.

For relatively flat areas, slab homes are more common. Slabs are more prevalent also the further south you go.

note how many crawlspaces they encounter on their routes.

2. Do I have to hire a crew to do these crawlspace jobs?

That’s a great question, and the answer is no. Most companies start doing closed crawlspaces with their existing termite/WDO crews to keep them busy in the winter months when termite jobs are often less frequent.

3. How many people does it take to do a closed crawlspace job?

The average job will take two people 2-3 days. Crew time continues to reduce as they become more proficient at the installation process. Just like anything, practice make perfect.

4. What are the keys to selling closed crawlspace jobs?

The greatest selling tools are: 1) Take pictures with a phone during inspection. Most people rarely go in their crawlspace. Show the pictures of fungal growth, ineffective hanging insulation, wood decay and condensation on pipes and ductwork. Then show them pictures of finished crawlspaces. The before and after pictures help families visualize what a clean space their crawlspace will be. 2) Use a wood moisture meter. Include a picture showing the moisture level in their wood and explain how moisture levels above 19% can support mold growth. 3) Explain the stack effect and how it causes the air from the crawlspace to be drawn up into the home.

5. What advice would you have for companies deciding to close crawlspaces?

Training, training, training! Your sales team must understand the science of why vented crawlspaces do not perform adequately and can create an unhealthy environment. Safety training is also critical. Watch the videos on Crawlspacedepot.com or visit us in North Carolina and we will take your technicians out to closed crawlspaces. Have them join crawlspace Facebook groups to connect with other technicians. And most importantly provide constant safety training and proper PPE. Finally, pay close attention to online reviews and especially Google reviews. Reference positive comments from those reviews in your presentations.