3 Pros Basement Systems Case Studies: Haymarket VA crawl Space Failed by Traditional Waterproofing Methods
Challenge
Traditional or old school methods or treating a crawl space can almost do more harm than good. For decades the basic method for "conditioning" a raw crawl space was to lay down plastic to cover the dirt floor and put insulation between the floor joists. The intent was to cover the dirt and allow for a dry space rather than mud and to insulate the floors in the living space above. If the crawl space is sealed and has a working sump pump to discharge and water that drains into it, this just might work. But most crawl spaces are left with open vents that allow external air, moisture and allergens inside. This air is cold in the winter and can cause pipes to freeze, the floors above to become cold and moisture to collect inside of the crawl space, leading to possible mold growth. This external air can be hot in the summer letting humidity build up, allergens and dust to move into the crawl space making the air quality of the home poor.
Solution
Our solution for any crawl space in the condition of the one shown here is to have an effective water control system to collect and deliver the unwanted water to a sump pump to send the water outside of the crawl space and away from the foundation f the home. The vents of this crawl space should be sealed up, keeping external air from impacting the environment of the crawl space and then insulation the walls and foundation of the home. Keeping outside air from coming in helps improve the air quality of the home and will reduce the likelihood of mold growth. Finally, covering the floor with our Terra Block matting will keep moisture controlled and with our Clean Space material covering the floors and base of the walls, it will stay dry and clean. Controlling the environment of a crawl space can improve the health and air quality of the home and reduce the cost to heat on cool your home. It will also reduce the risk of burst pipes which can be damaging to the home and wallet.
