4.9 
Unprotected Entry Point
One of the first issues we noticed was a broken brick wall and an exposed vent opening leading directly into the crawl space. These gaps gave moisture and pests easy access, creating the perfect storm for damage below the home.
Wet and Fallen Insulation
The crawl space was lined with fiberglass insulation that had absorbed moisture from the humid air. Over time, it became heavy and fell to the ground, turning into a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
Worn-Out Crawl Space Door
The old crawl space door had seen better days. Its worn finish made it an eyesore, but the real issue was its lack of an airtight seal, allowing moisture and outdoor air to infiltrate the space.
Evidence of Water Damage
The crawl space floor was muddy, and the walls showed clear signs of water issues. Efflorescence-the mineral residue left behind by evaporating water-revealed persistent leaks. While not dangerous on its own, efflorescence is a sure sign that moisture is making its way inside through the wall.
Moldy Floor Joists
Mold growth was evident on the wooden floor joists, weakening their structure and affecting air quality. Left untreated, this could lead to wood rot and eventual floor failure.
Sky-High Humidity
The relative humidity in this crawl space measured 85.52%, far above the safe limit of 55%. High humidity creates the ideal environment for mold and mildew, making encapsulation a top priority.
Moisture-Soaked Joists
We measured the wood moisture content at 38.2%, a level that promotes rapid mold growth and decay. This reading confirmed the urgent need for a moisture control solution.
Initial Assessment
The crawl space's overall condition was poor, with high moisture levels, mold, and structural concerns. A comprehensive encapsulation system was the best way to restore health and stability to this home.
Clearing the Space
To begin the transformation, our team cleared out debris, fallen insulation, and any moldy materials. A clean slate is essential for ensuring the success of the encapsulation process.
Drainage Matting
Drainage matting was installed on the crawl space floor. Its dimpled design allows groundwater to flow freely to the drainage system, preventing it from becoming trapped under the vapor barrier.
CleanSpace Vapor Barrier
The CleanSpace vapor barrier was installed to seal off the crawl space completely. Its 20-mil thickness and seven-layer construction make it tough and long-lasting, while its antimicrobial treatment prevents mold and mildew growth on the surface.
TripleSafe Sump Pump
The TripleSafe sump pump system was installed to handle any water infiltration. With three pumps-including a battery backup-this system ensures the crawl space stays dry even during heavy rains or power outages.
SaniDry Sedona Dehumidifier
To maintain safe humidity levels, we added the SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier. This energy-efficient unit removes up to 100 pints of moisture daily and helps improve air quality throughout the home.
EverLast Crawl Space Door
The finishing touch was the EverLast crawl space door. Its durable design and maintenance-free finish will make for a great first line of defense. Made from inorganic materials, it resists rot and rust while providing an airtight seal to keep out moisture and pests. At the same time, the easy-access knobs will allow you to peek in and take in your beautiful new encapsulation whenever you want!
