Dirty crawlspace in Saint Elmo, IL
This crawlspace in Saint Elmo, IL had exposed dirt floor that turned into a muddy mess any time it rained. Standing water and high humidity caused mold growth and rot in the wooden beams. Musty smells and mold spores came into the home through the crawlspace and there were drafts during the winter. The crawlspace couldn't be used for storage without fear of water damage. Woods recommended encapsulating the crawlspace with our CleanSpace system. The CleanSpace moisture barrier is a thick, durable plastic liner is put over the foundation walls and floors to prevent any water from getting into the crawlspace, instead directing it to the drainage system for removal by the sump pump.
High humidity in crawlspace in Saint Elmo, IL
Humidity can be high in a crawlspace that hasn't been encapsulated. A good sign that humidity is high is condensation on ductwork like can be seen here in this Saint Elmo crawlspace. High humidity can foster mold growth and rot the floor joists above as well as create an environment perfect for insects and other pests. High humidity can also cause musty smells and allergens that come into the home due to the stack effect. Along with the CleanSpace encapsulation system, Woods recommends the SaniDry dehumidifier. The SaniDry is an energy efficient dehumidifier that can remove up to 109 pints of water from crawlspace air per day, preventing musty smells, mold and rot and keeping the air in the home safer to breath.
Rusted pipes and rotted floor joists in crawlspace in Saint Elmo, IL
Moisture getting into the crawlspace can cause a host of issues for the structure of the home. Standing water and high humidity can cause pipes to rust which can result in a plumbing nightmare. It can also cause the wooden beams to rot and decay which can cause the floors above to become uneven and sag. Woods recommends installing a SmartJack support system as well the CleanSpace encapsulation when beams have been damaged. SmartJacks are adjustable steel columns that will permanently support the beams to prevent further damage and can lift and level the floors above to restore them to their original position.
Inadequated crawlspace vent cover in Saint Elmo, IL
This crawlspace in had exposed plywood vent covers that were warped due to moisture exposure. They were not waterproof and did little to nothing to prevent cold winter air or hot summer air from getting into the crawlspace, making the home less energy efficient. Woods recommended installing Everlast vent covers that are made of thick PVC plastic, which won't become damaged by moisture, and create an airtight seal over the crawlspace vents to prevent humidity, drafts and pests from entering the crawlspace.