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You’ll need to reseal the foundation every five to 10 years, depending on the sealant you’ve used, the moisture conditions present in and around your home, and the condition of your foundation. Having a foundation inspection conducted before reapplication can help you catch any problems before you begin resealing. Of course, if you notice any new leaks or other moisture problems at any time, it may be necessary to reseal the foundation sooner.

In most cases, it is safe to live in a home with minor foundation problems, but you should not let the issues persist. Virtually all foundations have small cracks from normal settlement, which are not a structural concern but should be sealed to prevent water intrusion. However, major damage—such as large structural cracks, sinking foundations, or bulging walls—can make a home unsafe. Other issues that can pose safety and health risks include poor indoor air quality from mold or pests, uneven floors, and rotten beams or joists. It is always best to have a foundation repair expert or structural engineer inspect any issues to determine if your home is safe to live in.

A vapor barrier keeps moisture out of the crawl space, while insulation reduces the amount of unconditioned air—and sometimes moisture—that enters the space. Coupling a vapor barrier with insulation can help prevent humidity and related moisture damage in a crawl space while also making your home more energy-efficient. Just be sure to use insulation that won’t get damaged from moisture, like rigid foam board or expanding spray foam insulation.

Yes, it is possible to over-dehumidify a house by removing too much moisture from the air. This can create an overly dry environment that negatively affects those with respiratory or skin issues, and may cause your skin, hair, and sinuses to feel dry. However, this is unlikely to happen with most modern dehumidifiers, as they are equipped with moisture sensors and adjustable settings. These features allow the unit to pause automatically when the desired humidity level is reached, preventing the air from becoming uncomfortably dry. In contrast, older or more basic dehumidifiers left running for too long could potentially over-dry the air. To avoid this, aim for a balance between removing excess moisture and maintaining a comfortable environment. You can often monitor your home's humidity levels using a modern thermostat for guidance.