What is Crawl Space Encapsulation?

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Even after doing tons of research you are probably still extremely confused about what exactly crawl space encapsulation is all about! So, we took a shot at trying to put all of this information, experience and knowledge together and give out two cents about what you are dealing with if you are thinking about having someone encapsulate your crawl space or possibly even doing it yourself.

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ENCAPSULATION The Process...

Bare Soil:

Usually the beginning, the traditional crawl space under a home consists of soil or sand that was the ground before construction started. Sometimes the topsoil is removed, but what you see is bare soil. I've been in crawlspaces that have had concrete poured on top of the soil or some washed gravel.

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The Earth is a Natural Water Vapor Pump: 

Unless you live in the Desert, we don't, it's Western North Carolina-Asheville area presently, is 6.83" inch above normal levels the ground under and around your home contains moisture. This liquid water wants to evaporate and get back up to the atmosphere. If you could see water vapor, you'd see a constant flow of this gas floating up into the air. When it's warm, the flow rate is faster.

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Drainage:

If there are issues with standing water, we'll begin by installing a drainage system prior to the encapsulation process. We then run this drainage system into a drainage liner{ A plastic material used to assist with crawl space drainage issues}, then install a sump pump to remove the water from the crawl space. We also need to insure that there is proper drainage for the home outside. Rain gutters, french drains, underground water run offs are just some of the remedies for these issues.

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Water = Mold: 

The water vapor, when mixed with wood, is not a good thing. If enough water vapor collects in a crawl space before getting back to the outside atmosphere, it can condense and turn to liquid water again. This water fuels mold growth and fungi growth you might call wood rot.

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SEAL the Space by Removing Antiquated Vent Covers:

Most crawl spaces have been vented due to antiquated building codes. We now know that venting a crawl space creates big problems and it's necessary to seal any vents or areas where outside air can get in. We create unique to your situation crawl space vent covers to repair this issue.

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Put In Place an Encapsulation System:

To complete the process of sealing the crawl space, install a crawl space encapsulation system to completely eliminate vapors and odors rising from the ground; creating a layer of protection between the dirt floor and your living space which also helps in lowering your home's heating bills while making the living space more comfortable.

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De-humidification System:

After the area is sealed, the moisture level will need to be controlled and brought down to a relative humidity below 50%, using a high-efficiency de-humidification system with a continuous flow capability.

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Key Benefits of Crawlspace Encapsulation

• Increased Energy Efficiency                      

• Control Humidity Levels

• Adds Usable Space to the Home (Wine Cellar, Storage, the Uses are Limitless!    

• Improves Indoor Air Quality

• Control Environmental Conditions for Prohibiting Mold Growth          

• Helps to Prevent Freezing Pipes

• Increased Home Value and Eye Appeal      

• Helps to Keep Floors Warmer in the Winter

• Control Foul Odors                                       

• Locks Moisture Away in the Soil

• Helps to Keep Hardwood Floors from Cupping and Buckling

 

Having an encapsulated crawl space comes with many benefits, the greatest one (in our opinion) being, better air quality. Studies show that you share 40%-60% of the air you breathe, with your crawl space. So you want a clean crawl space?

 

Encapsulating your crawl space you save money on your energy bill! Energy studies have found nearly a 20% reduction in energy usage in homes with a fully encapsulated crawl space.

 

Finally, an encapsulated crawl space will reduce the humidity levels in your crawl space as well, decreasing your potential for mold problems exponentially.