PROBLEM:
The homeowner was having her HVAC system replaced by heating and air conditioning company. During their install process, the HVAC installers noticed excessive moisture in the crawl space. They informed the homeowner they could not install new equipment until the crawl space water and humidity problem was fixed. They referred her to Dry Otter Waterproofing.
We immediately scheduled a site inspection since she was without air conditioning in a North Carolina summer, where temperatures are typically 90 degrees with greater than 80% humidity.
- First, we found evidence of water penetration through the foundation as well as biological growth or wood destroying fungus on the wood structure. We also found condensation on the new furnace the HVAC company had started installing. The client had a leaky crawl space, high humidity, and mold.
- Next, we sat down with the homeowner, reviewed the pictures, and discussed the solutions. She decided to implement a complete crawl space encapsulation system. Our system effectively protects her crawl space from moisture problems now and in the future.
- Lastly, our home services experts finalized a crawl space repair plan, and a contract for services was signed.
SOLUTION:
- Crawl space debris removal – The project started with cleaning the crawl space of debris, which consisted of brick, wood, and organic material.
- Crawl space mold remediation – Next, we installed negative air pressure and performed a microbial cleaning of the crawl space to remove the mold substrate from the wood.
- Crawl space drainage – Then, we installed drainage to eliminate standing water in the crawl space.
- Crawl space encapsulation – The crawl space encapsulation process followed with the installation of a liner on the walls and columns. This liner controlled wall moisture. Next, a drainage matting was placed to help control miscellaneous groundwater seepage while providing extra protection for the crawl space vapor barrier. The crawl space vapor barrier was then installed, which is a high-quality, durable liner where all the seams are overlapped and taped.
- Crawl space dehumidification – The last step in the encapsulation process is controlling the air moisture. This process involves installing a commercial-grade dehumidifier and sealing the crawl space vents.
The homeowner now has a complete crawl space repair. Our work keeps the house dry, provide energy savings, and prevent crawl space mold and wood rot from moisture.
