Crawlspace and Basement Floodproofing and Encapsulation
Challenge
Customer Concern:
The homeowner reached out due to chronic flooding, persistent dampness, and deteriorating air quality in the crawlspace and basement. They were concerned about mold growth, wood rot, and energy inefficiency. The existing conditions were contributing to an unhealthy indoor environment and posing long-term risks to the structural integrity of the home.
Initial Assessment:
During our inspection, we identified several key factors contributing to the homeowner’s concerns:
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Standing water and poor drainage in the crawlspace
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Saturated soil and inadequate soil grading
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Lack of a subdrain system or sump pump to manage groundwater
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Absence of a vapor barrier on floors and walls
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Deteriorated insulation and potential microbial contamination
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No dedicated dehumidification or air purification systems
Solution
Scope of Work:
To address the moisture and flooding issues, we began by cleaning the crawlspace and regrading the soil for proper drainage. A 3” perforated PVC subdrain system was installed along with a dual-pump Super Sump basin and a 100-foot exterior discharge line to redirect water safely away from the home. Electrical upgrades included two dedicated 20-amp GFCI circuits for sump power and lighting.
For moisture control, we installed Delta-MS drainage matting across the crawlspace floor and encapsulated the area using the CleanSpace system on both floors and walls. All existing insulation was removed, and 1.5” rigid foam insulation was added to the perimeter walls. A SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier and Aspen air purifier were installed to regulate humidity and improve air quality. Optional services included wood surface treatment with IAQ-6000 and temporary use of the homeowner’s dehumidifier, which required cleaning due to suspected contamination. Lastly, a courtesy inspection was performed to identify a possible bathroom leak.
Outcome:
Following the remediation, the crawlspace is now clean, dry, and fully sealed against moisture intrusion. The new drainage and sump system effectively manages groundwater, while the encapsulation and dehumidification components create a controlled environment free from excess humidity and mold risk. The homeowner reported immediate improvements in air quality and peace of mind regarding the long-term protection of their home.
