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The foundation walls of this crawl space are made with porous bricks, which are allowing the outside air and moisture to seep through, affecting the relative humidity. An increase in relative humidity can lead to mold growth, water puddles, and weakened structure due to moisture damage. Efflorescence is visible on the walls in multiple places, which occurs when moisture infiltrating through the walls pulls the salts and sediments from within the blocks to the surface, leaving behind a chalky, powdery substance.
Closed-cell spray foam was applied to the foundation walls, which at 1½ inches thick, acts as an air barrier and moisture retarder, protecting the crawl space from the outside influence coming through the walls. All cracks and corners are sealed, and any open vents lining the foundation walls are covered with precisely cut foam board pieces and sealed over with foam.