Musty, Moldy Smell is No Longer an Issue for Homeowners in Cedarville, IL
Challenge
Homeowners Jason and Kim were faced with an unsettling problem: a persistent, moldy-musty odor permeating their living space. Despite their efforts, the source of the smell remained elusive. Seeking a professional diagnosis, they turned to the experts at MidAmerica Basement Systems to identify the root cause and provide a permanent solution.
Upon arrival, design specialist Mac conducted a thorough inspection and quickly pinpointed the culprit: an untreated crawlspace. The investigation revealed that groundwater was consistently infiltrating the area. This standing moisture, combined with the organic materials present in the crawlspace, created a breeding ground for mold. Due to the "stack effect"—where air rises from the bottom of a home to the top—the musty odors and mold spores were being pulled directly into the main living quarters.
Solution
To remediate the issue and protect the home’s structural integrity, MidAmerica Basement Systems proposed a multi-layered encapsulation and moisture control system:
- CleanSpace® Vapor Barrier: A heavy-duty, antimicrobial liner used to permanently seal the home off from the exposed earth, preventing moisture and soil gases from entering the crawlspace.
- SmartSump™ Sump Pump System: Specifically designed for crawlspaces, this system effectively collects and pumps infiltrating water out of the home, ensuring the area remains dry.
- SaniDry™ Sedona Dehumidifier: To address ambient humidity, this high-efficiency unit was installed to maintain moisture levels below the threshold for mold growth, resulting in cleaner, healthier air for the entire household.
By transforming the damp, vented crawlspace into a dry, conditioned environment, the homeowners successfully eliminated the source of the musty odor. Jason and Kim now enjoy a protected home foundation and significantly improved indoor air quality.