Efflorescence on Walls
The white spots you see on the block foundation wall are efflorescence. This is a result of moisture moving through the block wall and bringing the sediments in the block to the surface with it, a sure sign of moisture infiltration.
Falling Insulation
As moisture finds its way into the crawl space and humidity rises, especially in warmer months, it is absorbed by the fiberglass insulation. As it gets wet, the insulation begins to pull apart from itself and with the help of gravity, it falls away from the doors.
6-mil Vapor Barrier
While this vapor barrier is not the worst one we've seen, it's certainly not keeping moisture out of this crawl space. Unsealed around the piers and perimeter of the crawl space, and held in place with "U" shaped stakes gaps in the liner allow the earth's moisture to rise into the crawl space and contribute to high relative humidity.
Mold & Mildew
The black spots you see on the wood floor joists are microbial growth. Mold and mildew grow on organic materials when temperatures are warm and the relative humidity is high. While you cannot see this growth without going into your crawl space, you might notice high humidity or musty odors inside the home that could be an indicator.
Antimicrobial Treatment
Shockwave, an antimicrobial, has been used to treat the microbial growth on the floor joists.
CleanSpace Vapor Barrier
When we install the CleanSpace vapor barrier, we attach it to the foundation walls 6-8 inches above outside grade. This is to help direct any moisture that seeps through the wall below the liner and prevent it from entering the crawl space. (this is not a solution for bulk water infiltration)
20-mil Clean Space
With the mold treated and liner installed, the next step will be to apply closed-cell spray foam insulation to the foundation walls.
