Crawlspace process
So, what's the solution to the crawl space issue?
Bio-Foam Insulation Systems recommends the sealing and conditioning of the crawlspace, negating the stack effect, and keeping mold spores from rising through your house. We do this by first completing a full inspection and then explaining the results of that inspection and then explain how we plan to remedy the problem.
We start by raking the crawlspace. This re-grades the crawlspace floor surface and removes any debris and rocks with sharp edges. If there is evidence of exterior water intrusion, we trench along the interior walls, and install a sump pump with an exterior discharge via PVC pipe. We install a 10 MIL polyethylene vapor barrier (Viper CS), covering all dirt floor area and extending up walls beyond grade line providing a 3" termite inspection gap sill plate. We then seal the vapor barrier and permanently attach it to walls and concrete slab if present using non-corrosive fasteners. Next we overlap and tape all seams, around any existing posts, and spray insulation under the floor, and when required, on the walls. Where appropriate, we seal existing vents with 2" thick foam insulation and polyurethane sealant.
Five Ways To FIGHT Moisture And Mold:
- Use cement board or mortar board beneath and around tubs and showers.
- Keep water supply lines within interior walls so they don't sweat in warm summer months.
- To prevent damage place water hears and washers on basement levels on concrete slabs incase of leaks.
- Don't run HVAC ducts in concrete slabs.
- Don't use wall-to-wall carpeting on basement floors.