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We encountered a significant challenge within a house in Pointe-Calumet, QC : Moisture and mold were proliferating in an unsealed crawl space. The 'before' photo illustrates conditions that were not only unsightly but posed serious health risks. Our effective solution involved the installation of CleanSpace and SilverGlo systems. The 'after' photo showcases a meticulously transformed space that now effectively protects against moisture infiltration and decay. We did not merely rectify the issue; we implemented a long-lasting solution that ensures the integrity of our client's home and provides them with peace of mind.
When water seeps into the crawl space and gets stuck, the water evaporates into the air and humidifies the basement.
This is the case of our client’s crawl space in Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot, that had a 79% level of humidity in the place, in addition to a wet and dirty area all the time.
Our team recommended a waterproofing solution and that would solve the problem of infiltration of water and moisture.
We installed the WaterGuard Interior Drain on the perimeter where there was a footing at the foundation and covered the concrete walls with the CleanSpace vapor barrier membrane that blocks moisture.
Mr. Toupin has a very humid crawl space. The floor and some walls were not insulated which allowed moisture from the floor and the outside to seep into the crawl space. He wanted to use it more to store his belongings.So he contacted Systèmes Sous-sol Québec in order to have a reliable and permanent solution.
The solution for our client was to install our drainage membrane on the earth floor and then lay our CleanSpace coating on top. These two products are flexible and could have been installed well on the floor of this crawl space. The humidity is therefore blocked which allows the crawl space to be dry. It also gives it a clear appearance.
This crawl space in Saint-Hippolyte was not insulated and there was a lot of water leakage and humidity in the area that was affecting the wooden support beams and putting them in threat of getting ruined.
When we went to check this area, our specialist Michel, therefore, recommended a complete solution to waterproof, isolate, encapsulate and solidify this crawl space which was in bad condition.
As a start, we have installed the SmartSump sump pump system and a SmartDrain to collect run-off water at this location and evacuate to the sump pump.
We insulated the walls with SilverGlo insulation made of graphite particles that reflect heat inwards as for the floor with TerraBlock panels to block water vapor.
Finally, we encapsulated the crawl space with the CleanSpace membrane which a vapor barrier and contains an antibacterial additive that prevents the proliferation of bacteria and molds. To provide additional support to the foundation, we installed a galvanized steel SmartJacks support pillar to prevent it from rusting or oxidation.
PROBLEM
There were water infiltrations from the damp ground, which facilitated the appearance of several mold stains. Our specialist Jennifer took care of the visit. By descending into the crawlspace, she identified excessive moisture, causing an unpleasant odor. Subsequently, she elaborated in detail on the solution, which consists of encapsulating the crawlspace to eliminate harmful moisture and prevent further structural damage that could even affect the foundation of the house.
SOLUTION
The encapsulation of the crawlspace consists of covering the floor with a drainage membrane and a vapor barrier above:
The drainage matting features a dimpled surface that helps channel infiltrated water towards the drainage or sump pump.
The vapor barrier prevents the evaporation of infiltrated water, thus eliminating excessive moisture. It also includes an antimicrobial additive to prevent mold growth.
To ensure proper thermal insulation of the crawl space walls, we installed SilverGlo wall insulation panels. In addition to resisting thermal conduction, the SilverGlo panels have a radiant barrier that reflects heat back into the crawl space for energy savings.
We installed our SmartSump sump pump system with the powerful Zoeller pump and the WaterWatch alarm, which helps prevent disasters.