Crawl Space Encapsulation

Achieving a Healthy Crawlspace in 5 Simple Steps

Considering crawl space encapsulation? The advantages are significant. Our services drastically reduce moisture, eliminate mold growth, and improve air quality in your home. Based on our extensive experience, we understand that no two properties are the same. As a leading crawlspace encapsulation company, we offer tailored solutions designed to tackle your specific issues head-on.

Step 1: Debris Removal Over the course of 50 years, your crawlspace may have accumulated all sorts of debris, from construction materials to unwanted pests and molds. At Pro Crawlspace Repair, we’ve seen it all, and we start by removing all this clutter. Anything organic in your crawlspace can serve as a potential food source for mold, so this is a crucial first step in our Crawlspace Encapsulation process.

Step 2: Eliminate Standing Water We evaluate your crawlspace’s condition and take measures to ensure it remains dry. This might involve improving exterior grading and maintaining gutters/downspouts, or, in some cases, installing drainage and a sump pump to eliminate groundwater.

Step 3: Seal Exterior Walls and Vents A healthy crawlspace should maintain a temperature between 50-70 degrees and humidity levels below 50%. Ohio’s climate rarely meets these criteria naturally. Vents in your crawlspace can bring in freezing air in winter, increasing heating costs and risking pipe damage. In summer, they invite hot, humid air, leading to condensation and mold growth. Our critical encapsulation process seals vents and insulates interior walls in a three-step process:

1. We seal all air gaps, including plumbing/utility penetrations, vents, and gaps or cracks in the framing or foundation wall.
2. We insulate the Bond, where the floor joists meet the foundation wall, to a minimum R-30 Value.
3. We mechanically fasten 2” of moisture-resistant EPS insulation panels to the foundation wall itself (R13.1), ensuring long-lasting results.

Step 4: Isolate from Soil Living on a dirt floor isn’t ideal, and the same goes for your crawlspace. We custom-cut a durable liner to isolate your home from the damp, contaminant-laden soil below. Our 125-mil liner is over six times thicker than the 20-mil liners used by many Cleveland-based companies. We’re so confident in its durability that we offer a transferable 25-year warranty on all our crawlspace projects.

Step 5: Air Conditioning With the crawlspace sealed from external air and the ground below, it’s crucial to condition the remaining air. We may use your home’s HVAC ducting or install a positive air flow fan and/or a dehumidifier to ensure the air is suitable. We’ll work with you to identify the best options for your needs.