Moisture Control In Pleasanton

Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024 by Mike Gray

Challenge

Project Overview

A homeowner in Pleasanton, CA, began noticing cracks in the drywall at various locations throughout their home. Upon investigation, Foundation Repair of CA determined that the cause was moisture in the crawl space, which was leading to the settlement of the foundation. To address this issue, a comprehensive solution was implemented to stabilize the foundation and prevent further moisture-related problems.

Solution

Assessment and Diagnosis

The initial assessment revealed that excessive moisture in the crawl space was the primary cause of the foundation settlement. This moisture was contributing to the deterioration of the foundation, leading to visible cracks in the home's drywall.

Solution Implementation

To rectify the situation, Foundation Repair of CA implemented a multi-faceted approach:

Vapor Barrier Installation: A CleanSpace liner was installed over all dirt surfaces and up the raised foundation walls within the crawl space. This liner acts as a vapor barrier, effectively preventing moisture from penetrating the crawl space. Drainage matting was placed underneath the liner to facilitate proper drainage and prevent water accumulation.

Replace Wood Posts with Galvanized Smart Jacks: To stabilize and level the floor of the home we replaced the compromised wood posts with galvanized SmartJacks on secure footings.

Crawl Space Vent Covers: To seal the crawl space from untreated air intrusion, vent covers were installed. This step is crucial to maintaining a controlled environment within the crawl space, preventing outside air from bringing in moisture and contaminants.

Dehumidifier Installation: A Sedona dehumidifier was installed to maintain a steady, low humidity level within the crawl space. This dehumidifier helps inhibit fungal growth, rusting of metal components, moisture intrusion in the concrete foundation, and rotting of wood members. By controlling the humidity, the dehumidifier plays a vital role in preserving the structural integrity of the home.

Results and Benefits

The implementation of these solutions resulted in significant improvements:

Foundation Stability: The foundation settlement issue was addressed, preventing further cracks in the drywall and ensuring the structural stability of the home.

Moisture Control: The vapor barrier and dehumidifier effectively controlled the moisture levels in the crawl space, preventing future moisture-related problems.

Enhanced Indoor Air Quality: Sealing the crawl space from untreated air intrusion improved the overall air quality inside the home.

Long-term Protection: The comprehensive approach provided long-term protection against fungal growth, rusting, and wood rot, ensuring the longevity of the home's foundation and structural components.

Conclusion

The CleanSpace installation in Pleasanton, CA, by Foundation Repair of CA successfully addressed the homeowner's concerns about foundation settlement and moisture intrusion. By implementing a thorough and effective solution, the homeowner's property was stabilized and protected against future issues, demonstrating the importance of addressing crawl space moisture problems promptly and comprehensively.