4.9 
Open Vents
The crawl space displayed significant signs of moisture problems, with wide-open vents as shown here. While crawl space vents are common, they often contribute to humidity issues by allowing water, moist air, and critters to enter and make the crawl space their new home.
Improper Barrier
The crawl space was covered with an inadequate plastic barrier in an attempt at encapsulation. Unfortunately, this easily available plastic is too thin to effectively keep moisture at bay, often trapping standing water beneath it.
High Humidity
Our team used a hygrometer to measure the relative humidity, which registered at 60.81%. This level exceeds the safe threshold for mold and mildew growth, as anything above 55% is a significant red flag that requires immediate attention.
Wet Insulation
In this image, our team utilized a wood moisture meter to assess the insulation's moisture content. Insulation in a crawl space acts like a sponge, absorbing humidity and making it difficult to dry. Here, the insulation measured a moisture content of 38.6%, well above the acceptable range.
High Moisture Content
The moisture content in the floor joist in this area was also concerning, measuring 22.3%. This level is significantly higher than what is considered safe.
Alarmingly High Humidity
In this spot, near an unsealed vent, the relative humidity soared to a staggering 74.02%. This crawl space urgently requires both a dehumidifier and encapsulation to address these issues.
Elevated Moisture in Floor Joists
Another joist showed a moisture content of 27.2%, with visible mold growth beginning to develop on the wood. This highlights the urgent need for intervention.
Mold Growth
This image captures additional mold spores appearing along the floor joists. Not only do these spores circulate throughout the house, but they also threaten the integrity of the joists, making them weaker over time.
Falling Insulation
Moisture-laden insulation becomes heavy and begins to fall from between the joists, exacerbating the humidity issues in the crawl space.
Discolored Wood by Vents
The discoloration along the floor joists is concerning, especially as the wood closest to the vents is noticeably darker. This is due to higher moisture exposure from the open vents, clearly demonstrating how much moisture can enter the crawl space.
Insulation Removal
To start the remediation process, our team removed all insulation from between the floor joists. This material exacerbates humidity problems and is unnecessary once the space is encapsulated.
Sump Pump Installation
Next, we installed the TripleSafe sump pump in the crawl space. This system will effectively manage any running or standing water issues in the home. Evidence of past water damage can be seen along the brick walls in the background. The TripleSafe sump pump features three layers of protection, including a powerful battery backup that activates during power outages.
IceGuard Discharge Lines
We laid the discharge line for the sump pump to carry water away from the home, ensuring it is directed far enough away to prevent reintroduction into the crawl space. The TripleSafe system includes the IceGuard feature, which prevents the discharge line from freezing and clogging.
LawnScape Outlet
The discharge lines terminate in the yard with a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution-the LawnScape outlet. This fitting camouflages the end of the discharge line while effectively diffusing the discharged water.
Drainage Matting
After the sump pump system was in place, we laid drainage matting underneath the vapor barrier to prevent standing water. The dimples in the matting facilitate water flow toward the sump pump for proper discharge.
TripleSafe Installed
This photo shows the fully installed TripleSafe sump pump, surrounded by the CleanSpace vapor barrier. The barrier is designed to seal off all potential openings, keeping the space dry and insulated from external moisture.
CleanSpace Vapor Barrier
With the CleanSpace fully installed, the bright white appearance represents a dramatic improvement from the previous state of the crawl space. Combined with the TripleSafe sump pump and the SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier, this area will remain dry and clean for years to come. The benefits? Improved energy efficiency, reduced allergy and asthma symptoms, and a lower risk of mold and mildew.
