Crawl Space Repair Photo Album: Crawl Space Repair in Athens, AL

A home in Athens, AL was dealing with musty smells originating from their crawl space, signaling potential moisture issues. Upon inspection, our expert discovered pools of moisture scattered throughout the crawl space. This is a serious concern because excess moisture can lead to wood rot, mold growth, and structural damage, compromising the integrity of the home. Additionally, the high wood moisture content and elevated humidity levels measured in the crawl space further indicated the need for immediate repair. To address these issues, our expert recommended a comprehensive solution, including the installation of an IceGuard and drainage system to prevent water buildup, as well as a Triple Safe Sump Pump to efficiently remove water from the area. The EZ Flow drainage system was also suggested to enhance water flow and prevent pooling. To significantly reduce moisture and humidity levels, a CleanSpace Liner, 20-mil thick, would be installed over drainage matting, providing a complete seal from the ground. The SaniDry Sedona Dehumidifier was recommended to maintain optimal humidity levels, while a new EverLast Door made of airtight, ½-inch thick PVC plastic would ensure the crawl space remains sealed from external moisture. These repairs are essential for safeguarding the home’s structural integrity and ensuring a healthy living environment.

Musty Odors

The original crawl space responsible for emitting musty odors throughout the home. The space is damp and unsealed, contributing to poor air quality inside the house. Over 50% of the air you breathe on the first floor comes from this crawl space, underscoring the importance of addressing the moisture issues to ensure a healthier living environment.

Essential Drainage System

The pools of moisture found in the crawl space, which led our expert to recommend a comprehensive drainage solution. The EZ Flow drainage system, designed to be installed in a trench, would would prevent water accumulation around the foundation, reducing the risk of moisture-related issues in the crawl space and helping to maintain the structural integrity of the home.

High Humidity Levels

Our expert is measuring the high relative humidity rate in the crawl space, a critical finding that indicates potential issues. Elevated humidity levels in a crawl space can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and a deterioration of the home's structural components. Additionally, high humidity contributes to poor indoor air quality, as moisture-laden air rises into the living spaces, creating an unhealthy environment.

Elevated Wood Moisture Content

Our expert's measurement of high wood moisture content in the crawl space. Excess moisture in the wood is a significant concern as it can lead to wood rot, mold growth, and structural weakening over time. If left unaddressed, this can compromise the integrity of the home's foundation and lead to costly repairs. Reducing the wood's moisture content is crucial to maintaining the home's structural health and preventing further damage.

Mold Spores

Mold spores found in the crawl space, a clear sign of excessive moisture and poor ventilation. Mold growth is a serious issue, as it can spread quickly and compromise both the structural integrity of the home and the indoor air quality. Inhaling mold spores can pose health risks, particularly for individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions.

Drainage Matting

Drainage matting allows it to effectively manage water by creating channels that help direct moisture away from the foundation. This prevents pooling and reduces the risk of water damage, ensuring a drier and more stable environment in the crawl space.

CleanSpace Liner

The CleanSpace Liner, a 20-mil thick protective layer, will be installed over drainage matting in the crawl space as recommended by our expert. The liner will be completely sealed to the ground, forming an effective barrier that significantly reduces moisture and humidity levels. By preventing ground moisture from entering the crawl space, the CleanSpace Liner will help protect the home from potential mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage, ensuring a dry and healthy living environment.

Triple Safe Sump Pump

The Triple Safe Sump Pump is designed to efficiently remove water from the crawl space, while the IceGuard system ensures that water is safely diverted away from the home's foundation, even during freezing conditions. Together, these systems will provide a reliable solution to prevent water buildup and protect the home from moisture-related issues.

SaniDry Sedona Dehumidifier

The SaniDry Sedona Dehumidifier, a key component in maintaining ideal humidity levels in the crawl space. The SaniDry Sedona is designed to efficiently remove excess moisture from the air, preventing mold growth, wood rot, and other moisture-related issues. By keeping the crawl space dry, this dehumidifier helps improve indoor air quality and protects the home's structural integrity.

Old Crawl Space Door

The rusted, deteriorating crawl space door currently in place. To improve both security and insulation, we plan to install a new EverLast Door, made from airtight, ½-inch thick PVC plastic. The EverLast Door will provide a durable, moisture-resistant seal, preventing unwanted air and moisture from entering the crawl space, and helping to maintain a stable, dry environment inside the home.