Why ventilate your crawl space? By encouraging airflow below your home, you can better control the climate inside and minimize moisture that could cause rot.
The best foundation vents also ensure mice, rats, squirrels, snakes, and other pests stay out. Additionally, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) says ventilation is key to preventing house fires, as it reduces the temperature of your crawl space.
Here we share tips and guidance for DIY crawl space ventilation.
What Can Be Used to Cover Crawl Space Vents?
Welded stainless steel mesh and galvanized mesh tend to be the best options for vents and screens.
Welded Stainless Mesh
Welded steel sheets are exceptionally strong, rigid, and moisture-resistant. This makes them a top choice for foundation vents, attic ventilation, and soffit screens.
Galvanized Steel Mesh
Boasting a protective zinc coating, galvanized hardware cloth is a go-to for home ventilation and pest control. The material is not only incredibly sturdy but also waterproof and resistant to extreme temperatures.
DIY Wire Mesh Crawl Space Vent Replacement
For this project, you'll need:
- Bucket
- Chisel
- Galvanized roofing nails
- Hammer
- Mortar mix
- Putty knife
- Wire mesh screens
Here's how to replace a crawl space vent screen with wire mesh.
- Using a hammer or chisel, start by chipping off the concrete surrounding the existing vent. This should loosen up the screen. (If the existing vents were set into wood, you can skip this step.)
- Remove any nails, then pull out the old screen. It might take some prying but should come out relatively easily.
- Scrape out any remaining concrete with the chisel.
- Insert the new screen into the opening, ensuring it's flush within the frame.
- Using galvanized roofing nails, hammer the mesh screen through the flange and into all four sides of the frame.
- Combine mortar mix and water in a bucket.
- Using a putty knife, apply the mortar to any gaps in the perimeter where you scraped away the concrete.
- Allow the mortar to cure for about a week before painting.
Shop Wire Mesh for Crawl Space Vents
TWP Inc. is proud to carry a robust selection of galvanized and welded steel screens.Our company has been supplying industrial-grade materials for DIY projects and commercial applications for over 50 years.
It's important to replace your foundation vent with a screen of the exact same dimensions. We carry wire mesh rolls that are ready to ship, but we can also custom cut a vent for your specific needs.
Order your supplies today, or request a free quote.
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