Fixing Water Intrusion with Encapsulation- Salem, OR
Challenge
This homeowner went to check their crawl space and was overwhelmed with the amount of work it needed. When a crawl space has water, it can cause a lot of damage to the entire home. Some of the issues that occur in a home due to an unprotected crawl space include; poor air quality circulating in the entire home, structural damage, and pests and rodent intrusion. An unprotected home also tends to have higher energy costs as well. Since the home is not protected against moisture and air leaks, it makes the heaters and air conditioning work harder to keep the entire home regulated. Most homeowners don't go down to their crawl space until a problem presents itself since they are perceived as dirty and dangerous. Luckily, this homeowner called John's Waterproofing Company to get the job done.
Solution
We sent out one of our system design specialist to perform a free inspection and estimate. After finishing the inspection, our design specialist met with the homeowner to discuss the findings of the crawl space and find the proper solution. They decided that an encapsulation was the way to go. Encapsulation reduces energy costs by creating a barrier against moisture and air leaks, which maintains consistent temperature in the home, as well as improving air quality, structural protection, and best of all it increases property value. To begin this project, we go in and remove all the debris such as old vapor barrier and fiberglass insulation. Next, we dig a trench around the interior perimeter of the crawl space to then lay down a perforated pipe into a silt sock, creating a secure passage for water to drain to the SuperSump Plus in the lowest point. Then, we install our TerraBlock system. This goes directly on the dirt floor of the crawl space and creates an insulated barrier between the home and the earth. On top of the TerraBlock system, we install our CleanSpace system, which goes up along the foundation walls, up to the rim joists and sealed with our waterproof tape against the footing of the wooden posts. We cover all the vents in the crawl space to make sure outside air does not enter. We also install our EverLast Door. This allows exterior access into the crawl space, and adapts to all weather conditions. We then install our EverLast Access Well, which offers extra protection with our very heavy gauge durable polyethylene, it holds soil back from the EverLast crawl space door. It's big enough for the homeowner to crouch down and enter the crawl space. The goal is then to control the environment, so we install our SaniDry Sedona. This effective dehumidifier pulls moisture out of the air and eliminates musty, damp odors by drying and filtering the air. This dehumidifier will promote healthy air throughout the entire home. Lastly, to finish this crawl space, we spray our foam insulation along the foundation walls up to the rim joists, ensuring a complete air tight seal. This homeowner can now be sure that their crawl space is protected for years to come.
