How Much Does Crawl Space Repair Cost in Atlanta?

Crawl space problems don't come with a single price tag because "crawl space repair" can mean a dozen different things. A vapor barrier replacement is a completely different job than fixing sagging floor joists or remediating mold. Here's what Atlanta homeowners actually pay for the most common crawl space repairs—and what drives those costs up or down.

Quick Cost Overview

Most Atlanta homeowners spend between $2,500 and $15,000 on crawl space repairs, with the wide range reflecting the variety of problems that can occur. Here's how the most common repairs break down: vapor barrier installation runs $1,500 to $3,000, full crawl space encapsulation costs $5,000 to $12,000, structural joist repair runs $3,000 to $10,000, mold remediation costs $1,500 to $5,000, and a complete crawl space overhaul (structural repair + encapsulation + drainage) can reach $10,000 to $20,000+.

Crawl Space Encapsulation Costs

Encapsulation is the most common crawl space investment Atlanta homeowners make, and for good reason—it addresses the root cause of most crawl space problems: moisture. A basic encapsulation with a 12-mil vapor barrier on the floor costs $3,000 to $5,000. A full encapsulation with 20-mil barrier on floor and walls, sealed vents, and a commercial dehumidifier runs $5,000 to $12,000. The size of your crawl space is the biggest variable—a 1,000 square foot crawl space costs roughly half what a 2,000 square foot space does.

Structural Repair Costs

Structural crawl space repairs address damage to the floor joists, beams, and supports that hold up your home. This is where costs can escalate quickly depending on the extent of the damage. Sistering floor joists (bolting new lumber alongside damaged joists) costs $100 to $300 per joist, with most jobs involving 5-15 joists for a total of $1,500 to $5,000. Replacing severely rotted joists runs $200 to $500 per joist. Support beam replacement costs $1,500 to $5,000 per beam. Adding supplemental support posts costs $250 to $500 each.

The underlying cause matters too. If wood rot from moisture damage caused the structural failure, you need to fix the moisture problem or the new lumber will rot the same way. That typically means adding encapsulation to the structural repair scope, which increases the total project cost but prevents a repeat failure.

Mold Remediation Costs

Crawl space mold remediation in Atlanta typically costs $1,500 to $5,000 depending on the extent of growth and the size of the affected area. Minor surface mold on a few joists can be treated for $1,500 to $2,500. Widespread mold covering most of the crawl space runs $3,000 to $5,000+. If black mold (Stachybotrys) is present, remediation requires additional containment procedures and may cost more. Like structural repairs, mold remediation without addressing the moisture source is throwing money away—the mold will return within months.

Crawl Space Waterproofing and Drainage Costs

If water is actively entering your crawl space—not just humidity, but standing water after rain—you need waterproofing in addition to encapsulation. An interior French drain in a crawl space costs $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the linear footage. A sump pump installation runs $600 to $2,500. Exterior drainage improvements (grading, downspout extensions) cost $500 to $3,000. A combined waterproofing and encapsulation system typically runs $7,000 to $15,000.

What Affects Your Cost in Atlanta?

Crawl space size is the most obvious factor—more square footage means more materials and labor. But several Atlanta-specific factors also affect pricing. Crawl space height matters: a 4-foot crawl space is much easier (and cheaper) to work in than a 2-foot crawl space where crews are on their stomachs. Georgia's humidity means most crawl spaces need a dehumidifier as part of any encapsulation—add $1,500 to $2,500 for a commercial unit. Accessibility plays a role too—if the crawl space access point is small or poorly located, everything takes longer.

The condition of existing systems also matters. If there's an old, degraded vapor barrier that needs removal before new installation, that's additional labor. If standing water needs to be pumped out before work can begin, that adds to the timeline and cost. The extent of existing damage—how many joists are compromised, how much mold is present—directly scales the repair scope.

Is Crawl Space Repair Worth the Investment?

Crawl space repairs pay for themselves in several ways. Energy savings from encapsulation typically run $150 to $300 per year as your HVAC system no longer fights crawl space humidity. Preventing structural damage avoids far more expensive repairs down the road—replacing a full subfloor system can cost $20,000+. Mold prevention protects your family's health and avoids repeated remediation costs. And a properly maintained crawl space adds to your home's resale value—buyers and inspectors check crawl spaces, and problems there kill deals.

Does Insurance Cover Crawl Space Repair?

Standard homeowners insurance typically doesn't cover crawl space repairs resulting from ongoing moisture, settling, or lack of maintenance. It may cover damage from sudden events like a burst pipe or storm damage. Mold coverage varies by policy—some exclude it entirely, others cap it at a low amount. Check your specific policy before assuming coverage. Regardless, most crawl space issues are maintenance-related and fall on the homeowner.

Getting an Accurate Estimate

A proper crawl space estimate requires an in-person inspection. The contractor needs to physically enter the crawl space to assess moisture levels, structural condition, mold presence, and drainage. Phone quotes are red flags. Get 2-3 estimates from contractors who specialize in crawl space work—general contractors often lack the specific expertise for moisture management and encapsulation systems.

At Reliable Solutions Atlanta, we provide free crawl space inspections with detailed assessments and written estimates. We'll photograph the conditions, explain what we find, and recommend only what your crawl space actually needs. Call 770-895-2039 to schedule yours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I encapsulate my crawl space myself to save money?

DIY vapor barrier installation is possible for basic ground-only coverage, but full encapsulation requires proper sealing techniques, wall attachment, vent sealing, and dehumidifier installation that affect long-term performance. Improper installation—gaps in the barrier, poorly sealed seams, or inadequate dehumidification—can trap moisture and make problems worse.

How long does crawl space encapsulation last?

A properly installed encapsulation system with a 20-mil vapor barrier lasts 20-25 years or more. Dehumidifiers typically need replacement every 8-12 years. The key is proper installation and occasional maintenance—checking for tears, ensuring the dehumidifier is draining correctly, and verifying seams remain sealed.

Should I fix structural damage or encapsulate first?

If you have both structural damage and moisture problems, address any active water intrusion first (drainage and waterproofing), then structural repairs, then encapsulation. This sequence ensures the structural repairs aren't compromised by ongoing moisture and the encapsulation seals everything properly once repairs are complete.