Are foundation vents always necessary?

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struckanerve

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We are looking at buying our first home. The first thing our realtor pointed out was a lack of vents around the foundation. There are none at the base of the house or in the foundation of the home. Are they necessary? Is there a type of foundation that wouldn't require them? The foundation on this home is very low to the ground, only about 4-5 inches. It is concrete and cinder blocks I believe, but a lot of it seems to be below the surface. The foundation under one portion of the house is 3 years old so we thought that it would be up to code, under the other or original portion of the house it is 30 years old.
 
I would say some type of venting would be necessary, if for no other reason than to keep the humidity low. Moisture build-up under your home would not be a good thing (mold, mildew, damp rot, etc).
 
yes you need the vents to help regulate the moisture level under ur house. the biggest mistake i see people make that buy a home is over look the most important part of the home the foundation .
I would ask for a list of what was done on the one side of the house so u can get an idea of what may have to be done to the rest of the home
and keep in mind if the house is over 30 years old then it may be on wooden post s depending on where u live and if its that low to the ground trust me u dont want to be stuck footen that bill

Foundation repair 15 years
 
You'll probably get differing opinions on this...

A lot of folks used to feel that stopping air movement under a home would keep it warmer during winter.

Ideally, the floor should be insulated on the underside, and a vapor barrier should be in place. I'd even go so far as to insulate the duct-work, plumbing, etc. Cross ventilation is important to keep a good air exchange going, which prevents moisture building up under the floors.

When high humidity builds up under a home - its going to go somewhere - usually causing damage in the process.

I don't know of a single manufactured home builder, that will not void the warranty on the home, if there is not adequate ventilation. That means -- little to no ventilation = no warranty, that's how important it is.

Good Luck
 
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