Crawl space repair addresses damage caused by humidity and soil movement through structural repairs and moisture control. Professionals diagnose the root cause of the problem through inspections and provide permanent solutions. Here is how crawl space repair can improve indoor air quality and comfort:
Moisture Control
Moisture control aims at eliminating standing water and managing humidity in crawl spaces and basements. This reduces humidity levels that can cause warping or rotting of wooden floor supports. To achieve moisture control, crawl space repair experts offer the following solutions:
- Interior drainages
- Sump systems
- Encapsulation
Interior drain systems redirect water that seeps into basements or crawlspaces. They may involve installing a channel system along the perimeter of the foundation walls at the cove joint. The system captures water that enters through the walls and channels it to a sump system for discharge. A pump within the pit automatically pumps the water through a discharge line; this helps keep it away from your building’s foundation.
Encapsulation involves sealing your crawl space vents and entry points to keep it dry. Experts install a polyethylene liner and spread it across the crawlspace floor, extending up the foundation walls, and covering support columns. They seal all the seams of the liner with spray foam insulation to prevent moisture evaporation from the ground into the air above.
Biological Growth Remediation
Biological growth remediation safely removes and treats organic matter. Experts look for the presence of excess moisture in a dark crawlspace that harbors biological growth. They apply specialized water-based fungicidal coating to the affected surface to kill the existing organic elements. Long-term solutions, such as fixing water intrusion to control moisture and humidity, may help prevent the growth from returning.
Organic growths sometimes release microscopic fragments into the air that can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems when inhaled. Biological growth remediation improves indoor air quality by directly removing the sources of airborne contaminants from your home environment. This eliminates volatile organic compounds that cause musty and unpleasant odors indoors. By killing the growth, remediation removes irritants that would circulate through the HVAC system.
Steel Beam Replacement
Steel beam replacement may improve indoor air quality by enhancing the structure of the crawl space. It provides long-lasting structural support that helps to prevent sagging, cracking, or gaps in the structure. A stable structure combined with proper air sealing minimizes the entry points for outdoor pollutants and soil gases like radon into the living area. By providing a stable foundation, steel beams enhance the effectiveness of vapor barriers and insulation; this may lead to consistent indoor humidity and air quality.
Support Column Installation
Support columns strengthen the home’s structure and support comprehensive moisture control efforts. During repairs, experts replace old or damaged columns with new ones; this may remove decaying organic matter. This eliminates the food sources of pests like ants, termites, and rodents. The absence of pests means that their droppings and dander, which can compromise air quality, are eliminated.
The replacement of support columns can eliminate wood or concrete columns that are failing due to moisture or settling. Adjustable steel jacks provide stability and support for your home’s main beam and floors above. Professionals can tighten these columns over time to lift sagging or uneven floors back toward their original level position.
Turtl Access Installation
Turtl access systems seal the crawl space; this may prevent the entry of contaminants. They are designed to be airtight and watertight when closed. This prevents humid, unconditioned outdoor air from seeping into the crawlspace and into your home. The secure, lockable seal and durable plastic construction prevent rodents and insects from entering. Tutl entryways are made from inorganic materials that will not rust or rot.
By providing a tight seal that prevents air leaks, the Turtl maintains the conditioned air circulated by your HVAC system. Improved air circulation and reduced air exchange with the unconditioned crawl space may minimize stagnant air pockets. This prevents polluted air from being drawn directly into the supply system through gaps.
Schedule Professional Crawl Space Repair
Professionals integrate dehumidifiers into waterproofing systems to remove excess moisture from the air and maintain an optimal environment. These units can have their drainage lines routed directly into sumps for emptying. Contact a reputable foundation expert to learn more about their services.
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