August 29, 2025

Mold in a crawl space isn’t just an eyesore — it’s a potential threat to your home’s structure and your family’s health. If you live in Raleigh, you know the region’s humid climate creates the perfect environment for mold growth, especially in dark, poorly ventilated crawl spaces.  At Triangle Radiant Barrier, we specialize in crawl space mold remediation Raleigh methods that not only remove visible mold but also address the conditions that caused it. Three of the most common remediation approaches are Dry-Ice Blasting, Soda Blasting, and Chemical Fungicide Application. Each method has its own strengths, drawbacks, and ideal use cases.  This guide will help you understand each option, compare their pros and cons, and choose the best fit for your home.  Why Mold in Crawl Spaces Is a Big Deal  Ignoring mold growth can lead to:  Health issues like respiratory irritation, allergies, and worsening asthma.  Structural damage to wood beams, joists, and flooring.  Poor indoor air quality since air from your crawl space circulates into your living areas.  That’s why it’s critical to choose the right crawl space mold remediation Raleigh method for thorough cleanup and long-term protection.  Method 1: Dry-Ice Blasting  Dry-ice blasting is a modern, non-toxic mold removal method that uses compressed air to propel small pellets of dry ice directly at mold-covered surfaces. The extreme cold instantly kills the mold, while the impact helps dislodge it from the material. As soon as the pellets hit, they sublimate — turning directly into gas — which means there’s no leftover blasting material to clean up afterward.  Pros:  No chemical residue — completely safe for sensitive areas like homes with children, pets, or people with allergies.  Highly effective on wood and porous surfaces where traditional cleaning methods might leave mold behind.  Fast cleanup with minimal waste since the dry ice simply evaporates.  Eco-friendly because it avoids the use of harmful chemicals.  Best For: Homeowners who want a chemical-free solution, need to tackle heavy surface mold, and prefer a cleanup process that leaves almost nothing behind.  Method 2: Soda Blasting  Soda blasting uses baking soda particles to gently but effectively remove mold and surface staining. The process is abrasive enough to strip away mold growth but gentle enough to protect most building materials, including softer woods and historic brickwork. In addition, baking soda naturally neutralizes odors, leaving the treated area fresher.  Pros:  Thorough surface cleaning that also reduces visible stains.  Natural deodorizing effect from the baking soda, helping improve air quality in the treated area.  Gentle on most materials compared to harsher blasting media like sand.  More budget-friendly than advanced methods like dry-ice blasting while still delivering strong results.  Best For: Crawl spaces, basements, and other areas with moderate mold growth where odor control and gentle treatment are priorities.  Method 3: Chemical Fungicide Application  Chemical fungicide application involves spraying or fogging an antimicrobial solution over affected surfaces. The treatment penetrates cracks and crevices, killing mold spores that may be hidden from view. This method is quick to apply and covers large areas efficiently, making it a practical choice for prevention or as part of a more comprehensive mold remediation plan.  Pros:  Affordable upfront cost compared to mechanical blasting methods.  Highly effective at killing spores in both visible and hard-to-reach spots.  Quick application makes it ideal for treating large surfaces or entire rooms.  Can be combined with cleaning or blasting for long-term mold prevention.  Best For: Light mold problems, ongoing prevention in at-risk areas, or follow-up treatment after mechanical cleaning to ensure spores are fully neutralized.  Comparing Cleanup Effectiveness  Dry-Ice Blasting: Best for quick, clean removal without residue.  Soda Blasting: Good at odor control and surface cleaning but requires extra cleanup.  Chemical Fungicide: Excellent for killing spores, but not a deep cleaning method by itself.  Health Impact Considerations  When choosing a remediation method, consider how each affects indoor air quality and occupant safety:  Dry-Ice Blasting produces no harmful residues, making it safe for homes with chemical sensitivities.  Soda Blasting leaves baking soda residue, which is non-toxic but requires thorough removal.  Chemical Fungicides are effective at killing spores but may temporarily release odors or vapors — ventilation is essential during application.  At Triangle Radiant Barrier, we ensure that whichever method we use, your crawl space is safe to re-enter once the work is complete.  Choosing the Right Method  Ask yourself:  How severe is the mold problem? Heavy growth might require blasting rather than just fungicide.  Is chemical sensitivity a concern? If yes, dry-ice blasting is the most chemical-free option.  What’s my budget? Fungicide treatments cost less, but blasting offers more complete cleaning.  Do I want stains removed? Blasting methods clean surfaces; fungicide alone won’t.  At Triangle Radiant Barrier, we often combine methods for the best results — for example, soda blasting to clean, followed by a fungicide to prevent regrowth.  Long-Term Prevention Tips  No matter which remediation method you choose, mold can return if moisture problems persist. To prevent recurrence:  Encapsulate your crawl space with a vapor barrier.  Improve ventilation to reduce humidity.  Use a dehumidifier in moisture-prone areas.  Inspect seasonally for signs of water intrusion or leaks.  Final Thoughts  Mold remediation isn’t one-size-fits-all. Dry-Ice Blasting, Soda Blasting, and Chemical Fungicide each have unique advantages, and the best method depends on your crawl space condition, your health considerations, and your budget.  At Triangle Radiant Barrier, we assess every crawl space individually, recommend the method (or combination of methods) that offers the most effective cleanup, and provide solutions to keep mold from coming back.  FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions): Which crawl space mold remediation method lasts the longest? Dry-ice blasting or soda blasting followed by a fungicide treatment often delivers the best long-term results.  Is dry-ice blasting safe for my home? Yes, it’s non-toxic and leaves no chemical residue, making it safe for most households. Will fungicide alone remove visible mold stains? No, fungicide kills mold but does not remove the staining — that requires physical cleaning or blasting. How do I know which method is right for me? A professional inspection from

For Raleigh homeowners, energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword — it’s a way to save money year after year while making your home more comfortable. One of the most time-tested and budget-friendly ways to do this is with fiberglass insulation. But how do you know when it’s the right time to invest in it?   At Triangle Radiant Barrier, we’ve helped countless homeowners decide if fiberglass insulation is the smartest choice for their specific situation.  In this guide, we’ll break down the cost-benefit, where it works best, and whether you should choose professional installation or DIY.  What Makes Fiberglass Insulation Cost-Effective?  Fiberglass insulation is one of the most affordable insulation materials available, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious homeowners in Raleigh. It provides a strong R-value (resistance to heat flow) without breaking the bank.  Unlike spray foam or other premium materials, fiberglass offers a solid balance of performance and cost. In many cases, the energy savings on your monthly utility bills can pay back the installation cost in just a few years.  Key Cost Benefits of Fiberglass Insulation:  Lower upfront cost than spray foam or rigid foam boards  Reduced heating and cooling bills over time  Long lifespan when properly installed and maintained  Easy replacement if damaged or compressed over the years  At Triangle Radiant Barrier, we’ve seen homeowners cut their energy bills by as much as 20% after upgrading old insulation.  Ideal Use Cases for Fiberglass Insulation in Raleigh Homes  Attics Your attic is a major source of energy loss, especially in older Raleigh homes. Installing fiberglass batts or blown-in insulation helps prevent heat from escaping in the winter and keeps your home cooler in the summer.  Crawl Spaces While many people think of fiberglass only for walls and attics, it’s also effective in crawl spaces. When paired with a vapor barrier, it can help keep moisture and humidity at bay.  Walls in New Builds or Renovations If you’re renovating or building, fiberglass is a cost-effective choice for interior and exterior walls. It helps with thermal performance and soundproofing.  Fiberglass Insulation vs DIY Installation  Many Raleigh homeowners consider installing fiberglass insulation themselves to save money. While DIY can be a viable option in certain situations, it’s important to weigh the potential savings against the benefits of a professional installation.  DIY Advantages:  Lower labor costs — You can save on installation fees by doing the work yourself.  Good for small, accessible areas — Ideal for attics, crawl spaces, or wall sections that are easy to reach and don’t require specialized tools.  Professional Installation Advantages (Triangle Radiant Barrier):  Perfect fit for maximum efficiency — Our experienced team ensures there are no gaps, compression, or misalignments that can reduce insulation performance.  Safe handling with protective equipment — Professional installers use the right gear and techniques to prevent exposure to fiberglass particles.  Comprehensive inspection before installation — We check for signs of moisture damage, air leaks, or pest activity, addressing issues before adding insulation.  Consistent R-value across all areas — Proper installation helps maintain optimal energy efficiency throughout your home.  For long-term comfort, energy savings, and peace of mind, professional installation is often worth the extra investment. With Triangle Radiant Barrier, you can trust that your insulation will be installed to the highest standards for lasting performance.  Understanding R-Value and Lifespan  The R-value measures how well insulation resists heat flow. In Raleigh’s climate, the recommended attic insulation R-value is R-38 to R-49. Fiberglass insulation can easily meet these requirements when installed at the correct thickness.  Lifespan:  Fiberglass insulation can last 20–30 years or longer if kept dry and undisturbed. However, if it gets wet, compressed, or infested by pests, its efficiency drops. That’s why we recommend periodic inspections — something we offer at Triangle Radiant Barrier.  Seasonal Considerations for Raleigh Homeowners  Fiberglass insulation is effective year-round, but the best time to install is typically spring or fall. This way, you’re ready for the temperature extremes of summer and winter without working in the most uncomfortable conditions.  Humidity control is also crucial in Raleigh’s climate. Pairing fiberglass with moisture barriers and proper ventilation ensures it performs at its peak.  Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Fiberglass Insulation  Rooms feel drafty despite closed windows and doors  Uneven temperatures between floors  Increasing utility bills  Visible gaps or damage in insulation  Insulation is more than 20 years old  If you notice these signs, Triangle Radiant Barrier can assess your current insulation and recommend whether replacement or upgrades are needed.  Why Choose Triangle Radiant Barrier for Fiberglass Insulation in Raleigh?  We specialize in cost-effective insulation solutions tailored to Raleigh’s climate. Our team:  Uses high-quality fiberglass materials  Installs to meet or exceed local building codes  Offers free in-home consultations  Checks for air leaks, moisture, and ventilation issues before installation  Investing in insulation is about comfort, savings, and protecting your home — and we make sure you get all three.  Final Word  Fiberglass insulation remains one of the most cost-effective and practical options for Raleigh homeowners. Whether for attics, crawl spaces, or walls, it delivers strong performance without straining your budget.  If you’re ready to improve your home’s comfort and efficiency, contact Triangle Radiant Barrier today to schedule your free insulation assessment.  FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions): How much can fiberglass insulation lower my energy bills? Savings vary, but Raleigh homeowners often see 10–20% reductions in heating and cooling costs after upgrading. Is fiberglass insulation safe for my family? Yes, when professionally installed and sealed, fiberglass insulation is safe and does not release harmful particles into your home’s air. Can fiberglass insulation be reused? If it’s dry, clean, and in good condition, fiberglass can sometimes be reused during renovations. However, damaged insulation should always be replaced.  How do I know if I need new insulation or just more added? A professional inspection from Triangle Radiant Barrier can determine if your current insulation is sufficient or needs topping up.