Crawl Space Moisture Control in Lexington, Kentucky
Challenge
This huge crawl space was in decent condition, but the owners understood that it wasn't going to stay that way if they didn't do something to control the moisture. This crawl space encapsulation project was going to be a big task because of the sheer size of the crawl space.
Solution
In order to properly control the moisture in the crawl space, we were first going to have to install a waterproofing system. Because this crawl space was subject to bigger water leaks, this step would prove fruitful for the home owners. We started by digging trenches around the interior perimeter of the crawl space. When we dug the trenches, it was evident that there was a lot of water sitting in the crawl space because the trenches were full of ground water. After we dug the trenches, we placed perforated pipe in them. We then backfilled the trenches with gravel to add another layer of drainage and to filter dirt out of the pipes. After the trenches, we dug a hole in the lowest part of the crawl space to be able to install our SmartPump sump pump. After we installed the sump pump, we placed down our drainage matting, which will make the CleanSpace liner going on top of it softer and more durable. The drainage matting also has bubbles, which provide air space for water to filter to the sump pump under the CleanSpace. After the drainage matting was placed all over the floor, we then installed CleanSpace liner all over the floor and up the walls of the crawl space. The CleanSpace liner makes the crawl space brighter, cleaner, and acts as a moisture barrier. The CleanSpace liner is very flexible and can be wrapped around the piers and other obstacles as well. It is also sealed very nicely with tape and buttons. We then installed SilverGlo insulation panels along the walls, which are made of an inorganic material and can't grow mold. We then used spray foam to insulate the rim joists. Because of all the insulation we added along the walls, we were able to take out the moisture ridden fiberglass in the ceiling. In the end, this large crawl space will pay for itself in the end because it is able to block out moisture, provide great insulation, and provide a safe living space for the inhabitants above.
