Crawl Space Ninja Show

Michael Church, Founder of Crawl Space Ninja

Welcome to the Crawl Space Ninja Show with Michael Church, where we break down the real fixes that make your home healthier. Each episode covers practical, proven ways to improve indoor air quality by addressing the attic, basement, and crawl space — the hidden areas that control how your whole home feels and functions. 

  1. Sep 10

    Building Code Says 6 Mil Is Fine. That Doesn't Mean It's Good

    Send us Fan Mail Are your vapor barriers actually protecting your home? Learn why building code minimums often fall short of real protection. The International Residential Building Code sets a minimum requirement of 6 mil polyethylene plastic for a crawl space. However, meeting this code standard does not mean you have the best protection for your home. While 6 mil plastic technically satisfies the rules, it is often comparable to thin contractor trash bags rather than a durable, long-term solution for moisture control. Homeowners should understand that the bare minimum is rarely the most effective choice for maintaining structural integrity. Beyond moisture control, upgrading your wall insulation provides significant long-term savings. Switching from a standard 2x4 wall, which offers R-13 insulation, to a 2x6 wall with R-21 results in a 57% energy loss reduction. Prioritizing energy efficiency during construction or renovation helps you avoid costly utility bills while ensuring a more comfortable living environment. These adjustments move beyond compliance to create a truly high-performing home. Watch full 6-mil Fails video: https://youtu.be/IX4aOgsjwVo?is=DogD5GrhTbnEPct9 Mold Removal and Prevention Products: Mold Test Kit – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/mold-test-kit-diy-1-test/ Mold Fogger – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/mold-fogger-ulv-non-thermal/ Mold Cleaner – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/mold-cleaner/ Mold Preventative – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/mold-prevention-spray/ Virus, Mold and Bacteria Disinfectant – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/anasphere-plus/ Odor Remover – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/anafresh-odor-eliminator/ Air Purifier – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product-category/air-quality/air-purifiers/ Dehumidifier – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/aprilaire-1830-dehumidifier/ Radon Digital Radon Detector – https://amzn.to/35KfsrA (affiliate link) Radon Test Lab Results – https://amzn.to/2xQCRLy (affiliate link) Radon Mitigation Fan – https://amzn.to/2YLcPEp (affiliate link) Flooding Products: Moisture meters: https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/moisture-detectors-alarms Sump Pumps: https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/dehumidifiers Dehumidifiers: https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/waterproofing Vapor Barriers: https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/vapor-barrier Foundation Sealant: https://amzn.to/4huXMqG Power Digging Tool: https://amzn.to/45td0VT Power Digging Spade: https://amzn.to/3RemeSN 20% OFF DIY Products Code: "youtube" Use at https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com 10% OFF DIY Mold Testing: https://fas.st/t/8cfyT8P3 **Contact Us:** * Website: (https://CrawlSpaceNinja.com/) * Schedule Free Inspection: (865) 659-0390 * DIY Store: (https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com) * DIY Store Phone: (865) 321-9314 **Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only. Consult professionals for specific advice. Some links may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. #CrawlSpaceNinja #BasementNinja Support the show Check out Michael's book, "Crawl Space Repair Myths-Busted" now available on Amazon! Schedule a consultation: https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/extras Need help: https://crawlspaceninja.com or https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com

  2. Sep 3

    Why Fiberglass Under Your Floor Fails

    Send us Fan Mail Stop struggling with cold floors despite having insulation. Learn why your home insulation might be failing and how to fix it. Many homeowners assume that adding material under their floorboards automatically solves comfort issues. However, there is a significant gap between theoretical R-values and actual performance. This guide breaks down the common insulation problems that prevent your home from retaining heat properly, focusing on why your investment might not be delivering the warmth you expect. We examine how installation errors like compression, gaps, or loose material allow air to bypass your barriers. Whether you are dealing with drafty floorboards or uneven heating, understanding these defects is the first step toward improving your home energy efficiency. By identifying these specific vulnerabilities, you can ensure your floor insulation is actually doing its job. Subscribe for weekly home improvement breakdowns, and comment below if you want to see a guide on testing your own floor temperature next. Mold Removal and Prevention Products: Mold Test Kit – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/mold-test-kit-diy-1-test/ Mold Fogger – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/mold-fogger-ulv-non-thermal/ Mold Cleaner – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/mold-cleaner/ Mold Preventative – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/mold-prevention-spray/ Virus, Mold and Bacteria Disinfectant – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/anasphere-plus/ Odor Remover – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/anafresh-odor-eliminator/ Air Purifier – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product-category/air-quality/air-purifiers/ Dehumidifier – https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/product/aprilaire-1830-dehumidifier/ Radon Digital Radon Detector – https://amzn.to/35KfsrA (affiliate link) Radon Test Lab Results – https://amzn.to/2xQCRLy (affiliate link) Radon Mitigation Fan – https://amzn.to/2YLcPEp (affiliate link) Flooding Products: Moisture meters: https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/moisture-detectors-alarms Sump Pumps: https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/dehumidifiers Dehumidifiers: https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/waterproofing Vapor Barriers: https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/vapor-barrier Foundation Sealant: https://amzn.to/4huXMqG Power Digging Tool: https://amzn.to/45td0VT Power Digging Spade: https://amzn.to/3RemeSN **Contact Us:** * Website: (https://CrawlSpaceNinja.com/) * Schedule Free Inspection: (865) 659-0390 * DIY Store: (https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com) * DIY Store Phone: (865) 321-9314 **Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only. Consult professionals for specific advice. Some links may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Check out Michael's book, "Crawl Space Repair Myths-Busted" now available on Amazon! Schedule a consultation: https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/extras Need help: https://crawlspaceninja.com or https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com

  3. Aug 27

    Gable Vents May Be HURTING Your Attic Ventilation

    Send us Fan Mail Attic gable vents often cause more harm than good. Learn why these vents can ruin your roof ventilation and airflow efficiency. Many homeowners assume adding vents improves air circulation, but improper installation creates significant attic ventilation problems. With 20 years of experience, I break down why attic gable vents frequently conflict with other ventilation systems. If you have a mixed ventilation setup, you might be trapping heat and moisture instead of removing it. This guide helps you identify if your current roof ventilation is actually working against you. We examine the mechanics of how air moves through your attic and why specific combinations of intake and exhaust vents fail. Understanding these airflow dynamics is essential for protecting your roof structure and shingles from premature damage caused by trapped heat. 🛠️ PRODUCTS FOR ATTICS: • Spray Foam Kits - https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/insulation  • Attic and crawl space fans - https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/fans • Attic Hatch cover - https://amzn.to/4nwUMtj • Solar Attic Fan - https://amzn.to/2Le6o4U • Radiant Barrier - https://amzn.to/4ohWfnK • Recessed Light Cover - https://amzn.to/3ft67ch • Flir C2 Thermal Imaging Camera: https://amzn.to/2Wc5CKO • Smoke Pen: https://amzn.to/49bUS69  • Laser Temperature Meter: https://amzn.to/4qT34hZ 🆓 FREE Attic Air Seal & Insulate Guide: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/e/478323 📖 Seal First, Insulate Second:  👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/e/546355 🛒 DIY Store — Professional-Grade Materials: 👉 https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com 📞 Book a Personal Consultation with Michael: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja **Contact Us:** * Website: (https://CrawlSpaceNinja.com/) * Schedule Free Inspection: (865) 659-0390 * DIY Store: (https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com) * DIY Store Phone: (865) 321-9314 **Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only. Consult professionals for specific advice. Some links may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. #AtticVentilation #GableVents #HomePerformance Support the show Check out Michael's book, "Crawl Space Repair Myths-Busted" now available on Amazon! Schedule a consultation: https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/extras Need help: https://crawlspaceninja.com or https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com

  4. Aug 20

    Powered Gable Fans, Why They Almost Never Work

    Send us Fan Mail Stop installing powered gable fans until you see how they can ruin your attic ventilation. Learn why this common setup can fail. Many homeowners install powered gable fans hoping to cool their attic, but this one in, one out configuration often creates more problems than it solves. This video breaks down the physics of attic airflow and why forcing air movement can actually work against your home's natural ventilation system. We examine why a balanced ventilation system is superior to mechanical fans and what you should do instead. If you are struggling with a hot attic or moisture issues, understanding how proper roof ventilation functions is the first step toward a permanent fix without the risk of pulling conditioned air from your living space. 🛠️ PRODUCTS FOR ATTICS: • Spray Foam Kits - https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/insulation  • Attic and crawl space fans - https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/fans • Attic Hatch cover - https://amzn.to/4nwUMtj • Solar Attic Fan - https://amzn.to/2Le6o4U • Radiant Barrier - https://amzn.to/4ohWfnK • Recessed Light Cover - https://amzn.to/3ft67ch • Flir C2 Thermal Imaging Camera: https://amzn.to/2Wc5CKO • Smoke Pen: https://amzn.to/49bUS69  • Laser Temperature Meter: https://amzn.to/4qT34hZ 🆓 FREE Attic Air Seal & Insulate Guide: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/e/478323 📖 Seal First, Insulate Second:  👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/e/546355 🛒 DIY Store — Professional-Grade Materials: 👉 https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com 📞 Book a Personal Consultation with Michael: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja **Contact Us:** * Website: (https://CrawlSpaceNinja.com/) * Schedule Free Inspection: (865) 659-0390 * DIY Store: (https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com) * DIY Store Phone: (865) 321-9314 **Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only. Consult professionals for specific advice. Some links may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. #AtticVentilation #GableFan #AtticFan Support the show Check out Michael's book, "Crawl Space Repair Myths-Busted" now available on Amazon! Schedule a consultation: https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/extras Need help: https://crawlspaceninja.com or https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com

  5. Aug 13

    Why Your Gable Vents and Ridge Vent Are FIGHTING Each Other

    Send us Fan Mail Are gable vents ruining your attic ventilation? Learn why mixing intake methods can actually block proper airflow and heat removal. This video breaks down the mechanics of attic airflow, specifically focusing on the conflict between gable vents and ridge vents. Many homeowners mistakenly add multiple ventilation types, thinking more is better, but this often disrupts the stack effect. We analyze how wind patterns and pressure changes interact with your roof design to determine if your current setup is helping or hurting your home energy efficiency. By understanding how cool air enters through soffit vents and hot air exits through the ridge, you can identify if your attic is truly breathing. We review the diagram of passive attic ventilation to show you exactly how air should move through a balanced system. Use this information to troubleshoot temperature spikes in your attic before they become expensive structural problems. 🛠️ PRODUCTS FOR ATTICS: • Spray Foam Kits - https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/insulation  • Attic and crawl space fans - https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/fans • Attic Hatch cover - https://amzn.to/4nwUMtj • Solar Attic Fan - https://amzn.to/2Le6o4U • Radiant Barrier - https://amzn.to/4ohWfnK • Recessed Light Cover - https://amzn.to/3ft67ch • Flir C2 Thermal Imaging Camera: https://amzn.to/2Wc5CKO • Smoke Pen: https://amzn.to/49bUS69  • Laser Temperature Meter: https://amzn.to/4qT34hZ 🆓 FREE Attic Air Seal & Insulate Guide: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/e/478323 📖 Seal First, Insulate Second:  👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/e/546355 🛒 DIY Store — Professional-Grade Materials: 👉 https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com 📞 Book a Personal Consultation with Michael: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja **Contact Us:** * Website: (https://CrawlSpaceNinja.com/) * Schedule Free Inspection: (865) 659-0390 * DIY Store: (https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com) * DIY Store Phone: (865) 321-9314 **Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only. Consult professionals for specific advice. Some links may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. #AtticVentilation #GableVents #RidgeVent Support the show Check out Michael's book, "Crawl Space Repair Myths-Busted" now available on Amazon! Schedule a consultation: https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/extras Need help: https://crawlspaceninja.com or https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com

  6. Jul 23

    Did Your Insulation Contractor BLOCK Your Soffit Vents?

    Send us Fan Mail Is your attic insulation causing higher energy bills? Discover why blocking soffit vents ruins your home cooling efficiency. Many homeowners struggle with an overheated upstairs without realizing the culprit is poor attic ventilation. This video explains how insulation contractors often inadvertently block soffit vents during installation, trapping heat and preventing your home from breathing properly. We walk through exactly what happens when these vents are obstructed and why it matters for your comfort. You will learn how to identify if your airflow is compromised and what to look for when inspecting your attic insulation. By understanding the relationship between blown-in insulation and soffit vents, you can prevent unnecessary repairs and stop overpaying for cooling. We break down the visual signs of improper installation so you know exactly what to check after your next service. 🛠️ PRODUCTS FOR ATTICS: • Spray Foam Kits - https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/insulation  • Attic and crawl space fans - https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/fans • Attic Hatch cover - https://amzn.to/4nwUMtj • Solar Attic Fan - https://amzn.to/2Le6o4U • Radiant Barrier - https://amzn.to/4ohWfnK • Recessed Light Cover - https://amzn.to/3ft67ch • Flir C2 Thermal Imaging Camera: https://amzn.to/2Wc5CKO • Smoke Pen: https://amzn.to/49bUS69  • Laser Temperature Meter: https://amzn.to/4qT34hZ 🆓 FREE Attic Air Seal & Insulate Guide: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/e/478323 📖 Seal First, Insulate Second:  👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/e/546355 🛒 DIY Store — Professional-Grade Materials: 👉 https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com 📞 Book a Personal Consultation with Michael: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja **Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only. Consult professionals for specific advice. Some links may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. #AtticVentilation #SoffitVents #HotUpstairs Support the show Check out Michael's book, "Crawl Space Repair Myths-Busted" now available on Amazon! Schedule a consultation: https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/extras Need help: https://crawlspaceninja.com or https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com

  7. Jul 16

    Hot Bonus Room? A Mini Split May Not Be the Answer

    Send us Fan Mail Is your bonus room over the garage always hot in the summer, even though your air conditioner seems to be working fine? Many homeowners are told to install a ductless mini split, but that may only treat the symptom instead of fixing the real problem. Before you spend thousands of dollars on another HVAC system, it's important to understand why bonus rooms become uncomfortable in the first place. In this video, Michael Church from Crawl Space Ninja explains why knee walls, attic air leaks, poor insulation, leaky ductwork, and attic ventilation problems often cause bonus rooms to overheat. You'll learn when a mini split is a smart solution, when it isn't, and why fixing your attic first can improve comfort, lower energy bills, and help your HVAC system perform the way it was designed. 🛠️ PRODUCTS FOR ATTICS: • Spray Foam Kits - https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/insulation  • Attic and crawl space fans - https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/fans • Attic Hatch cover - https://amzn.to/4nwUMtj • Solar Attic Fan - https://amzn.to/2Le6o4U • Radiant Barrier - https://amzn.to/4ohWfnK • Recessed Light Cover - https://amzn.to/3ft67ch • Flir C2 Thermal Imaging Camera: https://amzn.to/2Wc5CKO • Smoke Pen: https://amzn.to/49bUS69  • Laser Temperature Meter: https://amzn.to/4qT34hZ 🆓 FREE Attic Air Seal & Insulate Guide: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/e/478323 📖 Seal First, Insulate Second:  👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/e/546355 🛒 DIY Store — Professional-Grade Materials: 👉 https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com 📞 Book a Personal Consultation with Michael: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja **Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only. Consult professionals for specific advice. Some links may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. #MiniSplit #BonusRoom #AtticInsulation #AirSealing #HotUpstairs #HomeEnergyEfficiency #HVAC #KneeWallInsulation #CrawlSpaceNinja #BuildingScience Support the show Check out Michael's book, "Crawl Space Repair Myths-Busted" now available on Amazon! Schedule a consultation: https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/extras Need help: https://crawlspaceninja.com or https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com

  8. Jul 9

    Why Your Bonus Room Is Always Hot

    Send us Fan Mail Is your bonus room always hot in the summer and freezing in the winter? Most homeowners are told to add more insulation, replace the windows, or install a bigger HVAC system. Unfortunately, those expensive fixes often miss the real problem. In this video, I explain the building science behind uncomfortable bonus rooms and show you why air sealing is almost always the first step. You'll learn where conditioned air escapes, how knee walls affect comfort, and why sealing before insulating can make a dramatic difference. In this video you'll learn: • Why bonus rooms get so hot • The hidden problem behind knee walls • Why insulation alone doesn't solve it • Common myths that waste money • The correct order: air seal first, insulate second If you're dealing with an uncomfortable room over your garage, this video will help you understand the real cause before spending thousands on the wrong solution. 🛠️ PRODUCTS FOR ATTICS: • Spray Foam Kits - https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/insulation  • Attic and crawl space fans - https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com/collections/fans • Attic Hatch cover - https://amzn.to/4nwUMtj • Solar Attic Fan - https://amzn.to/2Le6o4U • Radiant Barrier - https://amzn.to/4ohWfnK • Recessed Light Cover - https://amzn.to/3ft67ch • Flir C2 Thermal Imaging Camera: https://amzn.to/2Wc5CKO • Smoke Pen: https://amzn.to/49bUS69  • Laser Temperature Meter: https://amzn.to/4qT34hZ 🆓 FREE Attic Air Seal & Insulate Guide: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/e/478323 📖 Seal First, Insulate Second:  👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/e/546355 🛒 DIY Store — Professional-Grade Materials: 👉 https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com 📞 Book a Personal Consultation with Michael: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja Videos: Common Mistakes That Make Your Bonus Room TOO HOT https://youtu.be/uytb3wYmftU Your Ducts Are Leaking and You Don't Even Know It https://youtu.be/NfTSBC46MhI **Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only. Consult professionals for specific advice. Some links may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. #BonusRoom #HomeInsulation #BuildingScience #EnergyEfficiency #HomePerformance #AirSealing #AtticInsulation #HVAC #HomeImprovement #crawlspaceninja  Support the show Check out Michael's book, "Crawl Space Repair Myths-Busted" now available on Amazon! Schedule a consultation: https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/extras Need help: https://crawlspaceninja.com or https://supply.crawlspaceninja.com

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Crawl Space Ninja Show with Michael Church, where we break down the real fixes that make your home healthier. Each episode covers practical, proven ways to improve indoor air quality by addressing the attic, basement, and crawl space — the hidden areas that control how your whole home feels and functions. 

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