Comprehensive Crawl Space Moisture Management in Monterey, CA

Thursday, August 8th, 2024 by Mike Gray

Challenge

Project Overview: A homeowner in Monterey, CA, was facing persistent water pooling and moisture issues in their crawl space. These conditions posed risks to the structural integrity of the home and created an environment conducive to mold growth. Concerned about the potential damage and health risks, the homeowner contacted Foundation Repair of CA to provide a long-term solution.

Challenges:

Persistent water intrusion in the crawl space, leading to pooling and moisture accumulation.
The potential for mold growth and damage to the home’s foundation due to excessive moisture.
The need for a reliable drainage and moisture management system to protect the home and improve air quality.

Solution

Solution: Foundation Repair of CA conducted a thorough assessment of the crawl space and recommended a comprehensive approach to address the moisture issues. The following solutions were implemented:

Crawl Space Drainage System:

Excavation and installation of a black, 3" corrugated pipe with a sleeve, surrounded by 3/4" rock within the crawl space. This system was designed to capture water and direct it towards sump pumps for discharge, preventing water from pooling.

SmartSump Pump System:

Installation of the SmartSump pump system, which included a liner, cast iron pump, CleanPump stand, airtight lid with an airtight floor drain, and the WaterWatch alarm system.

CleanSpace Encapsulation System:

A CleanSpace 20ml liner was installed across the crawl space ground surface and up the foundation walls to create a sealed environment. This liner was also wrapped around the bottom of the pier post assemblies to enhance the moisture barrier. Drainage matting was placed under the CleanSpace liner to allow water to flow freely beneath the liner, preventing potential damage from rips and tears.

Crawl Space Vent Sealing:

Existing crawl space vents were sealed with SilverGlo® rigid foam insulation, creating an airtight seal to prevent external air and moisture from entering the space. This measure also helped maintain the existing exterior covers.

Dehumidification:

To further control moisture levels, a Sedona dehumidifier was installed in the crawl space. The system efficiently removed excess moisture, reducing musty odors and improving overall air quality. A condensate pump kit was included to channel water from the dehumidifier to the drainage system, with a 40' discharge line installed.

Outcome:

The project was completed successfully, transforming the previously damp and musty crawl space into a dry, healthy, and protected environment. The comprehensive moisture management system not only safeguarded the structural integrity of the home but also enhanced indoor air quality, providing the homeowner with peace of mind.

Conclusion: Foundation Repair of CA's expertise in crawl space moisture management ensured a lasting solution for the Monterey homeowner. By implementing a multi-faceted approach, the team was able to eliminate the moisture issues and provide the homeowner with a safer, healthier living environment.