Fixing a Wet Crawl Space in Wilmore, Kentucky

Challenge

This homeowner had become frustrated from having to replace their fiberglass insulation every couple of years in their crawl space because moisture was making the fiberglass heavy, moldy, and ineffective. They were also concerned about how the moisture may weaken the wooden beams in their crawl space over time.  We agreed to help them renew their crawl space. 

Solution

We mapped out our standard, 4 step process to repair this crawl space, and then started the project:

1. To start, we needed to stop groundwater leakage that was causing moisture issues for the crawl space, so we installed a SmartSump sump pump in the lowest grade of the crawl space floor. We also installed perforated pipes around the perimeter and under the floor of the crawl space. The pipes were backfilled with gravel, to act as an extra layer of filtration.
2. We then encapsulated the crawl space with CleanSpace liner and drainage matting. The drainage matting goes underneath the white CleanSpace, and it will help filter water to the pump with its bubbles providing an air space under the CleanSpace. It also helps protect the CleanSpace, and makes it softer to sit on. We also installed vent covers over the crawl space vents to stop humid air from entering the crawl space.
3. Next, we needed to condition the air in the crawl space after sealing it. We did this by installing a SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier, which was hooked up to the pump so it can drain the water it collects from the air. The SaniDry Sedona is able to remove up to 100 pints of water a day from the air. 
4. The last step was to insulate the crawl space to prepare for the colder seasons. We did this by installing SilverGlo insulation panels along the crawl space walls as well as spraying rim joist foam insulation along the joists. We also removed all fiberglass from the crawl space because it was no longer helping insulate after we installed our own insulation.