Crawl Space Repair Before & After Photos

Utility lines in a vented crawl space are often affected by outside air carrying in moisture. Sealing vents, installing the CleanSpace Encapsulation System and insulating the crawl space walls with Spray Foam will help control the flow of air carrying moisture into the crawl space. 

As the insulation acts as a sponge, it holds moisture against the wood joists raising the moisture content of the joists. Mold requires organic material, warm temperatures, and relative humidity above 60% to grow. Often we see mold growing on the paper backing of the insulation and on wood joists in the crawl space. As the moisture content in the joists increases, the probability for wood rot becomes more likely. Once the joists reach 19% moisture wood rot begins. An antimicrobial called Shockwave is sprayed onto the joists to kill the mold. Once the encapsulation is complete and the dehumidifier is installed it will be set to turn on before the humidity in the crawl space reaches 60% (The ideal point for mold to grow). The Encapsulation system will help prevent ideal conditions for mold to grow from occurring and make the home healthier and more comfortable.

This crawl space has been battling moisture and humidity. The high relative humidity and moisture in the space have resulted in microbial growth on the floor joists, damaged and falling insulation, and even some odors in the living space, impacting the indoor air quality of the home. Our team begins by cleaning out the debris and old insulation and vapor barrier. Then they begin sealing off the crawl space from outside air and the earth's moisture. Sealing the crawl space, insulating the foundation walls, and controlling the relative humidity with a dehumidifier will help to prevent future microbial growth. 

The old crawl space door has been replaced with a new door that does not warp, rust, or rot. A friction fit insulated interior door is installed before the exterior door is put on to keep out outside air and moisture.

This vented crawl space in Charles City, VA had falling and damaged insulation, a torn vapor barrier, high relative humidity, and mold growing on the joists. The vents and rim band were sealed and insulated, the sill plate was sealed, a vapor barrier was installed, and spray foam insulation was applied to the walls.