Project Overview
The homeowner in Rescue, CA, was facing two pressing issues: musty odors and moisture seeping from the crawlspace, coupled with concerns that their foundation might be settling. Small vertical cracks had begun to appear in the foundation wall, and the homeowner suspected that excess moisture in the soil was causing the structure to shift.
Recognizing the potential severity of these issues, they reached out to Foundation Repair of CA for a free inspection. Our experienced team conducted a thorough assessment and identified the underlying issues. We recommended a multi-faceted solution to address both the moisture intrusion and the foundation cracks effectively, safeguarding the home's long-term stability.
Solution and Scope of Work
Our solution combined moisture management with foundational repairs, detailed as follows:
- SmartSump Pump System Installation:
To mitigate the moisture in the crawlspace, we installed the SmartSump Pump System, featuring a cast iron pump, CleanPump stand, and an airtight lid with a floor drain. This setup, coupled with the WaterWatch alarm, ensures efficient water removal from the crawlspace, alerting the homeowner to potential issues. A discharge line was included to direct water away from the foundation, preventing moisture accumulation beneath the home.
- Drain Pipe Installation:
To further prevent water buildup, we installed a black, 3-inch corrugated drain pipe with a sleeve surrounded by ¾-inch rock. Excavated to a depth of 8 inches, this trench was carefully lined to channel water toward the SmartSump system for controlled discharge, keeping the crawlspace dry and reducing moisture in the soil around the foundation.
- Vertical Crack Repair with Epoxy Injection:
The small vertical cracks in the foundation wall were addressed with an epoxy injection. This technique ensures that hairline cracks are sealed, preventing further water intrusion and restoring the foundation’s structural integrity.
- Downspout Extension Installation:
To keep water away from the home’s foundation, we installed downspout extensions on the existing downspouts. These UV-resistant PVC extensions allow water to be directed further from the foundation, protecting the area from excessive moisture and minimizing soil saturation close to the house.
Additional Recommendations
To maintain the efficiency of the SmartSump system, we recommended enrolling in our annual service maintenance program (Care Club Membership). This service includes a comprehensive inspection of the sump pump, float switch, intake, check valve, impeller, sump liner, and WaterWatch alarm. Annual upkeep by a trained FRofCA Service Technician ensures the system remains fully functional and prevents unexpected failures.
Outcome
By implementing these solutions, we effectively managed the moisture in the crawlspace and reinforced the foundation. The homeowner reported immediate improvements in the musty odors and peace of mind, knowing that the foundation issues were addressed. This comprehensive solution not only protected the structural stability of their home but also restored comfort and safety to their living environment.