Sub-Grade Moisture Isolation & Crawlspace Encapsulation Proposal
Challenge
A homeowner in Victoria reached out to MidAmerica Basement Systems after noticing uncomfortable interior humidity, cold floors during winter, and persistent musty odors drifting up into their main living area. An inspection revealed an open-soil crawlspace where ground moisture was constantly evaporating into the air pocket underneath the floor joists. Coupled with open foundation vents letting in warm, humid summer air, the damp environment was creating ideal conditions for mold growth, wood rot, and energy loss, threatening both the home's air quality and structural framing.
Solution
To permanently isolate the home from sub-grade moisture and humidity, our design specialist engineered an active CleanSpace® encapsulation system. The proposal outlines sealing off all open foundation vents and rim joists to prevent exterior air infiltration. Next, a thick, 20-mil 7-layer antimicrobial vapor barrier will be fitted and anchored across the entire earth floor and sealed high up the foundation walls, creating a continuous, impenetrable shield against moisture and soil gases. To control residual ambient air moisture, a high-efficiency energy-star dehumidifier designed specifically for crawlspaces will be installed to maintain a constant, healthy relative humidity level below 50%.
