Crawl spaces, as the name suggests, are low-height foundations within which one cannot stand up. Built as an alternative to conventional basements and concrete slab type foundations, crawl spaces are normally used to allow easy and convenient access to pipes and air ducts and often to house utilities and combustion appliances as well. Unsuitable as living space, they might sometimes be used for storage once encapsulated. However, because of the way they are built, crawl spaces are extremely prone to moisture and moisture-related problems, and their low height and overall conditions make them hard to inspect and maintain. The results of this lack of proper maintenance can be disastrous, especially for homes with dirt crawl spaces.
Differences in temperature between the crawl space and the surrounding areas, cause moisture present in the air or rising from the dirt floor to condensate in every cold surface in the crawl space. As a result, organic surfaces within the crawl space will develop mold, decay, and rot, sometimes to the point of compromising the home’s structural integrity. The moisture, warmth, and decay will attract termites, carpenter ants, dust mites and vermin and cause additional problems. Wildlife, such as snakes, raccoons and feral cats are know to seek shelter in vented crawl spaces, and with them the risk of rabies, parasites and diseases. Some animals, die and decompose inside the crawl space, and the stench will plague the home, sometimes for months
The Aquaguard Encapsulation process includes:
1. Proper grading and drainage of the dirt to divert rain water away from the space.
A sump pit and pump is included to help collect moisture from condensation, eventual plumbing leaks, and heavy rains, along with a perimeter drain system.
2. Completely isolating the crawl space from both ground moisture and outside air.
We line the whole crawl space with a thick and sturdy vapor barrier, preferably a puncture resistant, multi-layered 20 mil poly sheet (some contractors will use 4 mil 6 mil and 10 mil generic poly sheets, but they are known to rip easily). The liner is then secured to the walls and structures by mechanic fasteners. Mastic tape will seal the seams between the sheets and a special caulk will seal and the openings in the walls and structures. The Aqua guard system will include a feature such as strips and caps that will allow monitoring of the structure for termites and carpenter ants.
3. Conditioning the crawl space by using a crawl space conditioner system.
This blows air from the floor above into the crawl space, keeping it dry, or a crawl space dehumidifier.
“One third to one half of all structures have damp conditions that may encourage development of pollutants such as molds and bacteria,
which can cause allergic reactions – including asthma – and spread infectious diseases.”














- Environmental Protection Agency