Crawlspace Repair in Hardwick, Vermont, by Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems.
Challenge
A homeowner in Hardwick, Vermont, was facing significant crawl space issues that threatened the integrity and comfort of their home. Water frequently entered the crawl space, creating a damp and unhealthy environment. The excess moisture had caused the wooden floor joists to weaken, leading to sagging floors inside the home.
Concerned about both the structural damage and the ongoing moisture problem, the homeowner sought a comprehensive solution from Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems.
Our inspection revealed several challenges:
- Water Intrusion: Water entered the crawl space through the soil floor and foundation walls, creating persistent dampness.
- Lack of a Vapor Barrier: The crawl space had no protection against ground moisture, allowing high humidity levels to damage the wood supports.
- Structural Weakness: The moisture had weakened joists and sagging floors above over time.
Solution
Our team implemented a three-part system to transform the crawl space into a dry, stable, and healthy environment:
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Waterproofing System:
- We installed a perimeter drainage system to capture water seeping into the crawl space.
- Connected the drainage system to a TripleSafe Sump Pump, ensuring water was removed efficiently. The TripleSafe includes a primary pump, a secondary pump for high flow, and a battery backup to keep the system running during power outages.
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CleanSpace Vapor Barrier System:
- It encapsulated the crawl space with the durable CleanSpace Liner, a thick polyethylene barrier that seals out ground moisture and dramatically reduces humidity.
- Added Drainage Matting beneath the liner to facilitate water flow toward the drainage system.
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SmartJack® Structural Repair System:
- Installed adjustable SmartJack® Support Posts to lift and stabilize the sagging floor joists. These high-capacity steel supports are designed to provide long-term structural support in crawl spaces.
- Each SmartJack was secured on a concrete base to prevent settling, ensuring the floor remained level and stable for years.
The Results
The transformation was remarkable. What was once a source of worry, the crawl space, became a dry, stable, and energy-efficient area that supported the entire home.
Key Benefits:
- Dry Crawl Space: The waterproofing system effectively stopped water intrusion, eliminating damp conditions.
- Improved Structural Integrity: The SmartJack system restored the floors to their original level, providing solid and permanent support.
- Healthier Environment: The CleanSpace Vapor Barrier reduced humidity and improved indoor air quality, creating a healthier living space above.
- Energy Savings: Encapsulation helped reduce energy loss, making the home easier to heat and cool.
