Protect the health of your home.
Conditioned Crawlspace
By far the best option for improving the performance of your crawlspace is to turn it into a conditioned space; especially if you have an HVAC system or duct work located in the crawlspace. The process begins by removing old insulation, cleaning any organic growth, and grading the ground in preparation for the new vapor barrier. The next step is to install a reinforced 15mil vapor barrier that has all of its seams taped and is sealed to the walls and piers to create a complete vapor tight barrier. Then we install foam insulation on the foundation walls and rim joists. This insulation is air and vapor tight and moves the home’s thermal boundary to the foundation walls. The final step is to condition the space. This is accomplished by installing a small supply duct to bring fresh conditioned air into the space. Additionally, we recommend installing a properly sized dehumidifier to control humidity levels within the crawlspace. When finished, your crawlspace will be just as clean and comfortable as the rest of your house, dramatically improving the health and comfort of your home!
Sealed Vapor Barrier
At a minimum, every home should have a properly sealed vapor barrier in their crawlspace. The soil under your home is a significant source of moisture and contaminants. Without a properly sealed vapor barrier, unhealthy air can contaminate the air within your home. A sealed vapor barrier is installed by first clearing and grading the soil to prepare it for a reinforced 15mil vapor barrier. Then an air and vapor tight “curtain” is installed a minimum on the foundation wall and piers. After the 15mil vapor barrier is laid, all of its seams are sealed and it is taped to the previously installed wall curtain. It is also highly recommended to install air tight insulation in the rim joists at the top of the foundation walls, as well as air sealing any penetrations through the sub-floor of the home. This is an air sealing measure that, when coupled with the sealed vapor barrier, can help dramatically improve indoor air quality and comfort within the home.
