Crawl Space Encapsulation Waterproofing
If your crawl space is wet and flooding, installing a crawl space waterproofing system is essential. The focus being on the word “system.” Most crawl space encapsulation contractors are under the impression that waterproofing a crawl space is installing a french drain only or a sump pump and french drain. There is actually way more to it than that.
Waterproofing and the Sump Pump
If your crawl space is taking on standing water, a sump pump is a great way to move the water out of the crawl space. As mentioned in an earlier article, there are other options but the sump is certainly one of the most popular.
Sump pumps are designed to run as needed in order to keep your crawl space dry during heavy rains, plumbing leaks and even underground springs. But, the sump pump is not the only thing needed to waterproof your crawl space.
The French Drain
French drains or perimeter drains are also vital to waterproofing, especially in large crawl spaces with multiple water intrusion points. Having a sump pump in a corner normally only catches water in that general area. French drains bring water to the sump pumps for extraction. This makes french drains and sump pumps vital to waterproofing, but there’s more.
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Crawl Space Mold and Foundation Issues
Remember, the whole point of stopping your crawl space from flooding is to control humidity. High humidity can lead to mold and wood rot fungus. Wood rot fungus can destroy the joists and sub-floor and lead to sagging floors.
Yard drainage needs to be part of the waterproofing process as well. Making sure a curtain drain is properly installed around the home can redirect water. Running downspout extensions a minimum of 10 feet from the crawl space is great but the further, the better. This can take some of the pressure off your waterproofing.
Crawl Space Vapor Barrier
The last and most overlooked aspect of crawl space waterproofing is the vapor barrier. Most companies are all in for french drains and sump pumps but want to reuse your old vapor barrier. I feel most do this to appear more competitive and “on your side” during the inspection process. This makes them look good by offering a better deal.
