Crawl Space Repair Case Studies: Crawl Space Waterproofing in Brier

Challenge

Harold and Nancy R. lived in their Brier home for 22 years. As long as they could remember, their crawl space leaked water. However, recently they noticed much more condensation developing than normal. They had a reasonably deep crawl space and a high water table, causing water to seep up from under the foundation. Having no plans on moving, they were concerned about mold and other hazards moisture can cause inside their home. They called Rainy Day to help find a permanent solution to their wet drafty crawl space.

Solution

After inspecting the crawl space, it was clear that moisture had caused rapid development of iron ochre in the space. This type of bacteria grows by oxidizing minerals dissolved from water, usually iron or manganese. The result is a thick gooey substance that can cause all sorts of plumping and drainage complications like clogs or erosion. Because Washington is particularly wet, this type of problem is rather common and Rainy Day Basement Systems can provide the perfect solution, the half pipe. We designed a drainage trench pipe that is exposed from the top and is three times the size of our traditional pipes. The design allows for the greatest flowability to prevent clogging and easy access for future iron ochre removal.

The space was then encapsulated in our antimicrobial crawl space lining, CleanSpace. The lining is installed on top of the drainage trenches and completely isolates the space from the earth below, greatly reducing the moisture allowed into the space. To further reduce the moisture levels in the crawl space, a SaniDry CX dehumidifier was installed. The compact dehumidifier can remove as much as 13 gallons of water per day. All captured water flows through the added TripleSafe Sump Pump, the most effective sump pump we offer. The TripleSafe contains three automatic pumps in one, offering the homeowner complete peace of mind. The second pump turns on in the instance that the first pump cannot handle the volume of incoming water. A third pump, which is battery operated, will turn on in the event the first two cannot handle the water volume, or in the case of a power outage. The water is then carried through the buried discharge line and out of the discreet LawnScape Outlet.

Harold and Nancy’s crawl space is now clean, dry and mold-free. They will no longer have to worry about what damages could be lurking underneath their feet.