What is Crawlspace Encapsulation for Waterproofing?

Are you dealing with high humidity and mold issues in your home? If so, the problem may be your crawlspace.

A crawlspace with dirt or gravel flooring is typically saturated with moisture, and because warm air rises, moisture in the crawlspace will rise into the air you breathe.

Keep reading below to learn how we fix this problem using crawlspace encapsulation for waterproofing.

How Does USS Encapsulate Crawlspaces?

United Structural Systems of Illinois, Inc. offers an array of basement and crawlspace waterproofing services for clients.

Crawlspace encapsulation is an important service we offer homeowners to prevent moisture problems. But, what is it exactly and how do we do it?

Our first step is taking a look at your crawlspace to see if there is any standing water or seepage, and to get an understanding of its shape before proceeding. Depending on what we see in your crawlspace, there may be steps that will have to be taken to prepare the crawlspace before we encapsulate.

The encapsulating process includes attaching a cross-laminated polyethylene liner to the walls and then installing a plastic vapor barrier on the floor. The wall and floor seams are attached with a high-grade adhesive and joint sealant.

We also install insulating encapsulation liners on the walls of your crawlspace for temperature control. In many cases, we’ll help a homeowner permanently seal the crawlspace.

Why is Crawlspace Encapsulation for Waterproofing Vital?

Whether you have a basement or crawlspace, you should schedule foundation waterproofing services as soon as you see cracks or water.  

Encapsulating your crawlspace with the proper vapor barrier will protect your home or building from the negative effects of mold, humidity, poor air quality, odors, insects, and radon gas.

A crawlspace encapsulation can even prevent moisture from damaging your floor joists or first-floor decking.

Paying for this encapsulation upfront is an investment. But, in the long-term, it can actually save you money on repairs. The worse your crawlspace damage gets, the more expensive it will be to repair structural damage, mold issues, or keep up on pest control.

Getting this done may even increase the value of your home!

Dealing with Foundation Cracks

Part of getting foundation waterproofing done is sealing up any cracks in your foundation. These cracks will allow water to get into your crawlspace.

Before a vapor barrier can be installed, a foundation repair expert will need to seal any cracks using an epoxy injection or expanding urethane foam.

An epoxy injection will seal smaller cracks, and expanding urethane foam can be used when cracks are bigger and uneven.

Need Help With Your Crawlspace?

Don’t let moisture become a problem in your home. Call for residential basement waterproofing services as soon as you notice problems with your foundation.

A professional can identify how water is getting into your crawlspace, permanently seal it, and install a vapor barrier. Adding insulation to your updated crawlspace can also save you money on heating and air conditioning.

Call us today at 847-382-2882 if you have any questions about crawlspace encapsulation for waterproofing or if you’d like to schedule a free consultation.