Crawlspace Moisture Solution in Monterey, CA

Wednesday, October 16th, 2024 by Mike Gray

Challenge

Problem:
A homeowner in Monterey, CA, contacted Foundation Repair of CA with concerns about moisture in their crawlspace. The homeowner knew that excess moisture in the crawlspace could lead to harmful consequences, such as mold growth, musty odors, and structural damage. Since 50% of the air inside a home rises from the crawlspace, it was critical to address these moisture issues to prevent long-term damage and ensure a healthy living environment.

Assessment:
Upon inspection, our team identified significant moisture accumulation in the crawlspace. The homeowner's concerns were valid, as moisture in the crawlspace can result in mold, mildew, and poor indoor air quality. If left unaddressed, these problems could escalate, affecting the structural integrity of the home and the health of its occupants.

Solution

Solution:
Foundation Repair of CA implemented a comprehensive moisture management system, utilizing several of our industry-leading products to keep the crawlspace dry and protected. Below is the detailed scope of work:

SmartSump Kit with WaterWatch Alarm
We installed the SmartSump system, which includes a liner, cast iron pump, CleanPump stand, airtight lid with an airtight floor drain, and a WaterWatch alarm. The system ensures that water is efficiently pumped out of the crawlspace, while the alarm notifies the homeowner of any potential issues. A discharge line was included to guide water safely away from the foundation.

Drain Pipe Installation
To effectively capture and redirect moisture, we excavated the crawlspace soil and installed a 3-inch black corrugated pipe with a sleeve surrounded by ¾" rock. This drainage system channels water into the sump pump, allowing for efficient discharge and preventing pooling within the crawlspace.

Discharge Line Installation
An extension for the sump pump's discharge line was installed, ensuring water was directed away from the foundation to prevent any future moisture issues. This was a critical step in safeguarding the foundation from further water damage.

CleanSpace Liner Installation
We installed our durable CleanSpace liner across the crawlspace floor and up the foundation walls to create a vapor barrier. This liner prevents moisture from penetrating the home’s structure, providing long-term protection. To ensure the CleanSpace warranty remained valid, drainage matting was installed beneath the liner to allow water to flow around dimples and safeguard the liner from damage.

CleanSpace Pier Wrap and Wall System
The CleanSpace liner was wrapped around the pier posts in the crawlspace, ensuring a sealed environment around the supports. Additionally, the liner was installed on the foundation walls, extending up to 3 feet in height, to further protect the home from moisture intrusion.

Drainage Matting
Installed beneath the CleanSpace liner, the drainage matting provides additional protection, allowing water to flow under the liner without causing damage. This helps keep the crawlspace dry and maintains the liner's integrity.

Results:
With the installation of the SmartSump pump system, CleanSpace liner, and comprehensive drainage solutions, the homeowner can now rest easy knowing their crawlspace is protected from moisture. The moisture issues that once threatened the structural integrity of the home and indoor air quality have been resolved.

Recommendations:
We advised the homeowner to consider enrolling in our Care Club Membership, which includes annual maintenance of the system to ensure optimal performance and long-lasting protection. Proper maintenance is key to preserving the integrity of the moisture management system and preventing future problems.

Conclusion:
This Monterey project is an excellent example of Foundation Repair of CA's commitment to providing comprehensive solutions for homeowners. By addressing the moisture in the crawlspace, we helped the homeowner avoid potential health hazards and structural damage, ensuring a dry and healthy home environment for years to come.