Basement Encapsulation

What is Basement/Crawl Space Encapsulation?

Encapsulation refers to the process of sealing crawl spaces to reduce humidity and prevent leaks, as well as unpleasant effects such as mold and pest infestation. It involves sealing vents, conditioning, and lining the floor and the foundation walls with overlapping sheets of thick polyethylene plastic. Some people also install vapor barriers on exposed floors and wall surfaces.

So what does it involve?

Let’s delve into the steps of encapsulating a crawl space.
The Process of Encapsulation
Encapsulating a home is a four-step process. While the choice of material may vary from one contractor to the other, the process remains pretty much the same. Here’s how we do it:

• Step 1: Crawl space preparation. First things first — we’ll clear all debris and sharp objects from the crawl space. Anything sharp such as rocks may rupture the insulating plastic, so it has to go. Afterward, we grade the ground to create a level surface.
• Step 2: Sealing of openings: Once the crawl space is ready, we’ll seal any external openings such as vents and pipes, including wires coming from the outside. This will cut off unwanted air and keep the space waterproof.
• Step 3: Adding a plastic vapor barrier: A layer of plastic vapor barrier is then added to your walls and floor. It’s usually at least six millimeters thick and overlaps at least one foot, then it’s stapled down or fastened to cover the crawl space. Our system is a true 20-mil vapor barrier liner rated above 25 mil strength at the seams. A plastic this thick will endure rough treatment during plumbing and termite inspections.
• Step 4: Conditioning: With the crawl space sealed off, the next step is to eliminate existing moisture. You can channel out moisture using vents that go all the way to the living area or a dehumidifier. In case you live in a flood-prone area, it’s crucial you install a drainage system and a sump pump.

If your crawl space is in a bad state or mold-ridden, you will have to carry out crawl space repair before you can encapsulate that area.

Benefits of Crawl Space Encapsulation

An encapsulated crawl space is beneficial in many ways. If you’re still deliberating, here are some perks for you: Makes the Space Less Hospitable to Mold and Pests. Pests such as termites and mold, in general, thrive in wet and dark crawl spaces.

Once they colonize the crawl space, they can quickly spread to the upper rooms and cause wood rot and awful odors. You will find it hard to eradicate them.