Do You Really Need a Dehumidifier for Crawlspace Encapsulation?

Jeff Robinson • October 8, 2026

When a homeowner finally makes the call, something shifts.


We come out and do a thorough inspection. We get under the home and look at everything — and we show you what we're seeing in real time so there are no surprises when we sit back down with you. You'll know exactly what's down there. You'll know exactly what it takes to fix it. And you'll have a clear picture of what your home looks like after the work is done.


No pressure. No scare tactics. Just an honest look at what's happening and a straightforward plan to address it.


Most homeowners tell us the same thing after that first visit.


They wish they hadn't waited as long as they did.

The Truth About Dehumidifiers and Crawlspace Encapsulation

If you've gotten a quote for crawlspace encapsulation, you've probably seen a dehumidifier listed as part of the job. And you've probably wondered the same thing a lot of homeowners wonder: is this actually necessary, or is this just another way to add to the bill?


It's a fair question. Nobody wants to pay for something they don't need.


Here's the honest answer.

What Happens When You Seal It Up

A real encapsulation means your crawlspace gets fully wrapped — the floor, the walls, everything. The goal is to seal out moisture for good.


Here's the part most people don't think about. Sealing the space doesn't mean moisture never gets in. Small amounts still can, through tiny cracks, through the air, through places you'd never notice. Once that moisture is inside a sealed crawlspace, it has nowhere to go. It just sits there.


And moisture that sits turns into mold. It doesn't take long, either.

Why We Won't Skip It

This is why we will not do a full encapsulation without a dehumidifier. Not because it adds to the bill. Because without it, the whole job stops working the way it's supposed to.


Think of it this way. Sealing the crawlspace solves one problem. It stops outside moisture from pouring in. But it also creates a closed-off space. A dehumidifier is what keeps that closed-off space dry on the inside, day after day, long after the job is done. Skip it, and you've built the perfect place for mold to grow.

A crawl space with white plastic vapor barrier covering the ground and wrapping around the support pillars and walls.

The Question to Ask Any Contractor

Here's something you can use no matter who you hire.


Before you sign off on an encapsulation, ask one simple question: "Is a dehumidifier included, and why?"


If the answer is a clear explanation like the one above, that's a good sign. If the answer is vague, or if it's treated as a pricey add-on you can skip to save money, that's worth a second thought. Cutting it doesn't lower your risk. It raises it.

Book A Free Inspection Now

Your crawl space problems aren't going to fix themselves. But they are fixable. Let's get it done — the right way, permanently.

Or call us directly (217) 863-9559

Done Right, the First Time

At My Guys, we'd rather explain this upfront than have you find mold in your crawlspace a year from now. A dehumidifier isn't an upgrade. It's part of doing the job right.


If you're not sure whether your crawlspace needs this, or you just want a straight answer about what a real encapsulation should include, give us a call. We'll walk through it with you — no pressure, no guesswork.

Based in

Mahomet, Illinois Serving all of Central Illinois.

Business Hours

Mon Fri - 8am to 5pm

Sat Sun - Closed

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