Exploring Common Crawlspace Waterproofing Techniques: Effective Solutions for a Dry and Healthy Home Environment

Posted by Andre & Erika Lacroix on
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Crawlspaces are often overlooked areas in homes, yet they play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity and indoor air quality of a residence. However, crawlspaces are highly susceptible to moisture intrusion, which can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and other issues if left untreated. Crawlspace waterproofing is essential for preventing these problems and ensuring a dry, healthy environment. In this article, we’ll explore common crawlspace waterproofing techniques, their benefits, and considerations for homeowners.

1. Vapor Barrier Installationcommon waterproofing techniques-ez-breathe-1

One of the most effective crawlspace waterproofing techniques is the installation of a vapor barrier. A vapor barrier is a thick, durable plastic sheet that is laid over the crawlspace floor and sometimes up the walls. This barrier prevents moisture from seeping into the crawlspace from the ground below. It also helps to reduce humidity levels, which can prevent mold growth and wood rot.

2. Crawlspace Encapsulation

Crawlspace encapsulation is a comprehensive waterproofing technique that involves sealing off the entire crawlspace from the outside environment. This typically includes installing a thick vapor barrier on the floor and walls, as well as sealing off any vents or openings. Additionally, a dehumidifier may be installed to maintain optimal humidity levels. Encapsulation creates a controlled environment within the crawlspace, preventing moisture intrusion and protecting the home’s foundation.

3. Drainage Systems

In areas where groundwater is a concern, installing a drainage system can help prevent water from accumulating in the crawlspace. This may include installing French drains around the perimeter of the crawlspace or a sump pump to remove excess water. By directing water away from the crawlspace, drainage systems can help prevent moisture-related issues such as mold and wood rot.

4. Foundation Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for reducing humidity levels and promoting airflow within the crawlspace. This can be achieved by installing foundation vents or fans to allow air to circulate freely. Ventilation helps prevent condensation and mold growth, creating a healthier environment for occupants.

5. Sealing and Insulation

Sealing off cracks, gaps, and openings in the crawlspace walls and floors is another important step in waterproofing. This helps prevent water from seeping into the crawlspace and reduces air leakage, which can contribute to humidity issues. Insulating the crawlspace walls and rim joists can also help regulate temperature and further reduce moisture buildup.

Benefits of Crawlspace Waterproofing

Investing in crawlspace waterproofing offers numerous benefits for homeowners, including:

  • Prevention of Moisture-Related Issues: By keeping the crawlspace dry, waterproofing helps prevent mold growth, wood rot, and other moisture-related problems.
  • Improved Indoor Air Quality: Waterproofing reduces humidity levels and prevents the buildup of indoor pollutants, creating a healthier living environment for occupants.
  • Protection of Structural Integrity: By preventing moisture damage, waterproofing helps protect the home’s foundation, support beams, and other structural elements.
  • Energy Efficiency: Proper crawlspace waterproofing can lead to energy savings by reducing the need for heating and cooling and preventing air leakage.

Considerations for Homeowners

Before undertaking a crawlspace waterproofing project, homeowners should consider the following factors:

  • Extent of Moisture Issues: It’s essential to assess the severity of moisture issues in the crawlspace and identify the underlying causes before choosing a waterproofing technique.common waterproofing techniques-ez-breathe-2
  • Budget: Waterproofing costs can vary depending on the chosen method and the size of the crawlspace. Homeowners should establish a realistic budget and prioritize necessary repairs.
  • Professional Assistance: While some crawlspace waterproofing tasks can be done DIY, more complex techniques may require professional expertise. Homeowners should consult with waterproofing experts to determine the most effective solution for their needs.
  • Maintenance Requirements: Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the effectiveness of crawlspace waterproofing systems. Homeowners should follow manufacturer recommendations and schedule periodic inspections to identify and address any issues promptly.

Crawlspace waterproofing is a critical investment for homeowners looking to protect their property from moisture damage and create a dry, healthy environment. By implementing common waterproofing techniques such as vapor barrier installation, encapsulation, drainage systems, foundation ventilation, and sealing and insulation, homeowners can effectively prevent moisture-related issues and maintain the structural integrity of their homes. Whether through DIY efforts or professional assistance, investing in crawlspace waterproofing is essential for ensuring the long-term health and safety of the home and its occupants.

Contact the Professionals at EZ Breathe Today! 866-822-7328

Written by Andre & Erika Lacroix

We are a 2nd generation family owned and operated business that has been working in homes with basements and crawl spaces for over 40 years.  We have been waterproofing and sealing about 500 foundations a month during that time as the largest Waterproofing contractor in the Midwest with 15 locations servicing 8 states.

20 years ago we would seal a foundation and recommend a standard dehumidifier to address the additional water vapor (humidity in the air) inherently found in below grade environments, such as basements and crawlspaces.  Back then, dehumidifiers were the industry standard to help with this problem. However, many of our customers were looking to us as the “foundation expert”, asking…

“What else do you have? I really am not getting results with this messy, expensive dehumidifier. My foundation is dry, walls are dry, floor is dry, so why does it still smell and feel like a basement?” 

We needed to find something better. Our company’s core values include offering world class customer service to every customer, every time.   So, we challenged our Research and Development department to find a real solution for our customers to combat not only the moisture, but also the odors, pollutants and unhealthy environment our customers were concerned about. We found, tested and installed a ventilation product for a period of three years. We private labeled that product as the EZ Breathe Ventilation System. The feedback in those first three years from our customers, as well as our installation crews, did not live up to the standard of quality to be included in our waterproofing process that offered a life time warranty. Once again, we needed something better.

We valued not only the results, but what we were learning from our customers. So, we went back to the drawing board, took matters into our own hands and made quality improvements to that first generation ventilation unit.

Our own EZ Breathe Ventilation System was born…reengineered, redesigned and much improved! We quickly learned that our crews were thrilled with the quality improvements, ease of operation and installation, but more importantly, our waterproofing customers loved the new, improved EZ Breathe unit as well.

Their feedback told us the air in their basements and crawlspaces felt better, but their entire home was benefiting from their EZ Breathe as well. We received countless letters thanking us because their whole house felt different, less odors, fresher air upstairs too, family members were feeling better, needing less allergy medicine, husbands were no longer snoring, children were no longer coughing as much, the home and it’s family were living healthier lives!

It was time for us to move beyond simply offering this innovative technology to just our waterproofing customers. Our passion and commitment to helping people improve their indoor air environments is what drove us to incorporate EZ Breathe Ventilation Systems as an independent company in 2003. We strongly believe that homeowners everywhere deserve a healthy indoor air quality.

We have spent the last 20 years dedicated to learning about the relationship between our home and our health; indoor air quality, the home as a system, building science and how it relates to indoor air quality as well as the challenges our modern day practices pose to the quality of air we breathe in our homes.