Crawl Space Repair Photo Album: Incapsulating a Crawlspace with CleanSpace™
Most homeowners seldom enter or use their crawlspaces. Unfortunately, just because they ignore the crawlspace doesn't mean the crawlspace doesn't have an impact on the health of the home.
Water vapor that rises through the unprotected floor of the crawlspace can support mold growth and rot, which can damage the floors that run above the crawlspace. Additionally, because air flows upwards through a house, the smells from mold, mud and critters that get into the crawlspace rises through the rest of the home.
To prevent these problems, Cory A. installed CleanSpace™. CleanSpace™ is a tough, waterproof liner like a pool liner that incapsulates the crawlspace to prevent water, water vapor and even critters from entering the crawlspace. The tear-proof inside of the liner means that things can be stored in the crawlspace without worrying about them ripping the liner and reducing its effectiveness. On the back of CleanSpace™ is an anti-microbial layer that will block mold growth to help keep the crawlspace protected.
Any water that builds up beneath the CleanSpace™ vapor barrier is directed to a TripleSafe™ sump pump so it can be pumped out of the home. Additionally, a Sedona dehumidifier is installed to dry the air and help filter out mold spores.
Because the crawlspace is now protected from mold, critters and water vapor, more insulation can be installed. In this basement, a foam insulation is sprayed against the gaps between the floor joists to help seal in the comfortable air and keep out the uncomfortable air.
This crawlspace is healthier and will help to improve the health of the home above it. Not only is the home more protected from water damage and mold growth, but it will also be more energy efficient but sealing the crawlspace and keeping unconditioned air out of the home.
Dirty Crawlspace
This unfinshed crawlspace is not only dirty and unpleasant, but also unhealthy. It can allow water vapor to rise into the home and feed mold growth.
Unincapsulated Crawlspace
Though there is a tarp across the ground to block some water build up, it won't block water vapor from rising into the air. Water can also still leak through the walls, where it could get inside above the tarps.
Incapsulated and Protected Crawlspace
This crawlspace is protected by a CleanSpace™ vapor barrier as well as a TripleSafe™ sump pump system and a Sedona dehumidifier.
Uninsulated Joists
The gap between the joists agains the outside wall can allow hot summer air or cold winter air to enter the crawlspace and heat or cool the whole home from below.
Insulated Joists
This foam insulation will prevent unconditioned outside air from entering the crawlspace and making the home hotter in the summer or colder in the winter.
A Crawlspace You Can Use
Now that the crawlspace is protected from water damage, mold and pests, it can be used as an extra storage space. Don't worry about stacking things on CleanSpace™, it's a super tough, tear-proof material.
