Crawl Space Repair Photo Album: Debris Covered Vapor Barrier - Woodburn, OR
This crawl space had experienced water intrusion over the course of several years. Due to this, dirt and debris had covered the original vapor barrier and caused it to shift and tear. This allowed for more water to have access into the space without any kind of protection. The homeowner decided they were ready to encapsulate the crawl space and get the vapor barrier replaced so they called John's Waterproofing. First, we removed the damaged vapor barrier and all the sagging fiberglass insulation. Then, we could install a drainage system using a perforated pipe and a SuperSump Plus sump pump. The pipe gets installed along the interior perimeter to collect water that tries to intrude. It sends that water to the sump pump to be pushed out of the crawl space and away from the homes foundation through a discharge line. TerraBlock, a thick insulation foam, goes along the crawl space floor to insulate and seal the space off from the earth. A CleanSpace vapor barrier is installed on top of the TerraBlock, up the foundation walls, and between the footing and wooden posts. This is a key part for this crawl space because instead of using a traditional 6 mil vapor barrier, CleanSpace is 20 mil thick and made with woven fibers that help to prevent water from seeping through. It is also backed by a 25 year warranty against rips or tears. With the new vapor barrier installed, the crawl space can be isolated and protected against water intrusion. To help keep the relative humidity controlled we than installed a SaniDry dehumidifier. Finally, the last step of the encapsulation process is applying Spray Foam to the foundation walls. This helps to air seal and insulate the crawl space. With the encapsulation completed and a brand new vapor barrier in place, this homeowner couldn't be more excited to experience all the benefits of a dry and healthy home.
Falling Insulation and Exposed Wooden Posts.
The falling fiberglass insulation and the distorted patterns on the wooden posts help indicate that there is moisture issues in the crawl space.
Dirt and Debris Covered Vapor Barrier.
This photo shows how much dirt and debris was covering and ripping up the original vapor barrier. This happens when water seeps through and eventually evaporates leaving behind the outside sediment on the vapor barrier.
SaniDry and SuperSump Plus.
The SaniDry dehumidifier and the SuperSump Plus sump pump help to keep the crawl space dry and healthy by pumping water out and pulling moisture from the air.
CleanSpace Replacing the Old Vapor Barrier.
CleanSpace is a heavy duty vapor barrier made with woven fibers that help protect the crawl space from water being able to seep through.
Air Sealing with Spray Foam.
Spray Foam is applied to the foundation walls and made of materials that expand to fit into each crack and crevice. It does this to air seal the space and insulate the home.