Crawl Space Repair Photo Album: Crawl Space Repair in Clarksville, TN

A home in Clarksville, TN, was experiencing significant moisture issues and sagging floors. Before encapsulation, the relative humidity in the crawl space was at 68%, which exacerbated the moisture problems. High humidity can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage. During our inspection, we found puddles of moisture and uneven floors, indicating severe water intrusion and foundational instability. To address these issues, we determined that a full encapsulation and the installation of SmartJack Stabilizers, made from galvanized steel, were necessary. These stabilizers would lift the floors back to their original position, providing long-term support. The damaged wood and mold spores found during the inspection further confirmed the need for immediate action. Our encapsulation process involved installing a 20-mil thick CleanSpace Vapor Barrier over drainage matting. This setup effectively reduces moisture and humidity by sealing the crawl space completely from the ground. We also installed steel beams to support the stabilizers, ensuring they never rot or mold. Additionally, a new Everlast Door, made from airtight 1/2-inch-thick PVC plastic, replaced the old, damaged crawl space door, providing a durable and secure entrance. This comprehensive repair not only resolved the moisture issues but also restored the structural integrity of the home, ensuring a healthier living environment

Original Crawl Space

The original crawl space of the home in Clarksville, TN, during the initial inspection, revealed conditions that necessitated a comprehensive repair and encapsulation project to restore the crawl space and ensure the structural integrity of the home.

Excess Moisture in Crawl Space

Standing water in the crawl space is a significant issue as it contributes to high humidity levels, which can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage. Over time, this moisture can worsen, further compromising the integrity of the home's foundation and creating an unhealthy living environment. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial to prevent escalating damage and ensure the long-term stability of the home.

High Relative Humidity

Our expert measured the relative humidity in the crawl space to be at 68%. High humidity levels in the crawl space can raise electric bills because the HVAC system has to work harder to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and manage excess moisture. Additionally, about 50% of the air you breathe on the first floor comes from the crawl space, meaning that high humidity can affect indoor air quality, potentially leading to health issues.

Mold Spores

Mold growth and wood damage are signs of persistent moisture problems. Over time, this can weaken the structural integrity of the floor joists, leading to sagging floors. This structural degradation highlights the need for immediate foundation repair to prevent further deterioration and ensure the home's stability. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to avoid more extensive and costly damage in the future.

EZ Flow

EZ Flow is installed in a trench along the perimeter of the crawl space. It is a drainage system designed to capture and redirect groundwater away from the foundation of the home. By effectively managing groundwater, EZ Flow helps prevent moisture buildup in the crawl space, mitigating the risk of mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage.

Drainage Matting

Drainage Matting, a dimpled material used as the first layer of our encapsulation process in the crawl space, serves as a foundational barrier, providing a channel for water to flow beneath the vapor barrier. This innovative solution helps manage moisture by preventing water from pooling and facilitating its drainage away from the crawl space.

CleanSpace Liner

The installation of CleanSpace Liner, a 20-mil thick barrier, placed over drainage matting in the crawl space. This comprehensive encapsulation system effectively reduces moisture levels, creating a drier and healthier crawl space environment. By combining CleanSpace Liner with drainage matting, we ensure optimal moisture control, mitigating the risk of mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage in the home.

SaniDry Sedona Dehumidifier and Triple Safe Sump Pump

The SaniDry Sedona Dehumidifier is designed to lower the relative humidity level to 55%, creating a drier environment that helps prevent mold growth and wood rot. Additionally, the Triple Safe Sump Pump provides reliable water removal, safeguarding the crawl space against flooding and water damage. Together, these devices work to maintain a dry and healthy crawl space environment, promoting the longevity of the home's foundation and structure.

SmartJack Stabilizers

The steel beams provide robust support, ensuring the stability of the structure over time. Additionally, the SmartJack Stabilizers, constructed from galvanized steel, are designed to lift the floors back to their original position, addressing issues of sagging and unevenness. Unlike traditional wooden supports, these steel components are resistant to rot and mold, providing long-lasting reinforcement for the home's foundation.

Completed Encapsulation Project

The encapsulation process, including the installation of vapor barriers, drainage systems, dehumidifiers, and structural reinforcements, has been successfully completed. With our expert services, your crawl space can be transformed into a clean, dry, and healthy environment. Contact us today for a free inspection and ensure the long-term well-being of your home.