Crawl Space Encapsulation & Repair
Addressing all of your crawl space’s issues will promote energy efficiency and comfort in your home.
Get Your Free EstimateCommon Crawl Space Problem Signs
If your crawl space begins to rot, grow mold, or experience structural problems, this will extend to every part of your home. At AFS Foundation & Waterproofing, we specialize in crawl space problems of all types.
Moisture in Your Crawl Space
Crawl space moisture leads to mold, pests, and unpleasant odors. AFS provides professional solutions to effectively dry out your crawl space.
Water in Your Crawl Space
Discover the causes and risks of water in your crawl space, and the urgency of addressing it for your home's well-being.
High Crawl Space Humidity
Learn about the causes of crawl space humidity and the effective moisture control solutions provided by AFS.
Bouncy Floors
Uncover the factors leading to bouncy floors and how AFS's solutions can safeguard the stability and safety of your home.
Award-Winning Service
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The crew for AFS (Isaias, Gerard, Maurice and Justin arrived on time.Isaias was the foreman and we walked the the entire job when he…
The crew for AFS (Isaias, Gerard, Maurice and Justin arrived on time.Isaias was the foreman and we walked the the entire job when he arrived.All 4 of these men did a fine job.All of them asked me if any question and if I was happy with their work.None minded me checking on them during all the work that they were doing.Entire process for the estimate (Tracy) thru the repair was very positive.Thanks AFS
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Very professional and informative
Very professional and informative
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Archie from AFS was so kind, helpful and patient with me. He spent over 6 hours during 2 visits and e-mails measuring, taking pictures,…
Archie from AFS was so kind, helpful and patient with me. He spent over 6 hours during 2 visits and e-mails measuring, taking pictures, checking leveling, and answering my many questions. And my basement is guaranteed dry for life! He has volunteered to be on site during the process to make sure that some particularly troublesome spots are handled correctly.
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Sean was great. Very thorough and professional. Took his time to check everything. Did an excellent job in explaining what he checked and…
Sean was great. Very thorough and professional. Took his time to check everything. Did an excellent job in explaining what he checked and found. Very pleased.
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Joe Pecho Daniel and Typeese did a wonderful job on my house today. I am very happy with their work.
Joe Pecho Daniel and Typeese did a wonderful job on my house today. I am very happy with their work.
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Alan McConnell with AFS Louisville truly made their company stand out as the gold standard in crawl space inspections. After discovering…
Alan McConnell with AFS Louisville truly made their company stand out as the gold standard in crawl space inspections. After discovering excessive water in my crawl space, I reached out to three companies for inspections and quotes. Alan’s professionalism, expertise, and unmatched attention to detail made him and AFS Louisville the clear choice. From the moment Alan arrived, it was evident that he takes his work seriously. He came fully prepared with the proper tools and conducted an extremely thorough inspection of the crawl space. What I appreciated most was his balanced approach—he not only identified problem areas but also pointed out aspects that were in good condition, giving me a full understanding of the situation. Alan’s detailed report set AFS Louisville apart from the competition. It included comprehensive notes and clear pictures that documented everything he found. This report wasn’t just informative—it was actionable and gave me confidence in the solutions being proposed. None of the other companies I worked with came close to providing this level of clarity and thoroughness. Alan’s professionalism and dedication to delivering high-quality service made all the difference. His ability to combine technical expertise with clear communication ensured I felt fully informed throughout the process. If you’re looking for a company that stands out for its professionalism, thoroughness, and customer focus, I highly recommend Alan McConnell and AFS Louisville. They’ve truly raised the bar for what a crawl space inspection should be.
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Emmett N. did a great job explaining what he was doing and did it in a timely manner. He was also very professional.
Emmett N. did a great job explaining what he was doing and did it in a timely manner. He was also very professional.
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Really appreciate Jordan Gilmore! He is extremely knowledgeable and professional. My client and I had a clear understanding of what needed…
Really appreciate Jordan Gilmore! He is extremely knowledgeable and professional. My client and I had a clear understanding of what needed to be done to correct the crawlspace and foundation issues after meeting with Jordan. Got to love the guarantee offered by AFS!!
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Wade Siler was so polite and knowledgeable about the problems we were having with out building! 10/10 would recommend! If you are anywhere…
Wade Siler was so polite and knowledgeable about the problems we were having with out building! 10/10 would recommend! If you are anywhere near Nashville, and need AFS for foundation problems, ask for Wade!
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Rhett Stephens was amazing! He took his time with us to make sure we understood what the issues were, how they came to be, and what our…
Rhett Stephens was amazing! He took his time with us to make sure we understood what the issues were, how they came to be, and what our options were. We felt no pressure at all; just true honesty. He was very professional and prepared to answer all our questions. He spent a lot of time with us and didn’t want to leave without making sure we felt comfortable with our decision. The project is overwhelming, but we feel confident in this company.
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Calvin, Katell and Kyree were awesome. Punctual and highly courteous. Calvin explained everything that they were doing as well as answered…
Calvin, Katell and Kyree were awesome. Punctual and highly courteous. Calvin explained everything that they were doing as well as answered any questions or concerns i had throughout the process. Great crew!!!!
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Emmett W. was very nice and very attentive.
Emmett W. was very nice and very attentive.
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Mr. Patrick McGrath, came by today to do an annual inspection. He went up under the house today to check the water barrier and then a…
Mr. Patrick McGrath, came by today to do an annual inspection. He went up under the house today to check the water barrier and then a foundation check around the house where we had some cracks. He went over the procedures of what we can do to fix the cracks and lift the house a little bit got about a year to think about it so other than that, he did a good job and appreciate him coming by and giving us the info. Mr. Beal
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We had our foundation leveled and a sump pump installed for moisture control. The guys did a great job. They were very courteous and wasted …
We had our foundation leveled and a sump pump installed for moisture control. The guys did a great job. They were very courteous and wasted no time in getting the job done. Thank you Jorge, Jesus and Hilmer. We appreciate all your hard work.
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Great company. Fred great in greeting and answering all the questions, Ian great office work got done what was needed to start job. The…
Great company. Fred great in greeting and answering all the questions, Ian great office work got done what was needed to start job. The install crew were top notch Trent great leader and foreman Cole & Chester great workers. all 3 made a great team.
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I received excellent service from Mr Uriel, Mr Bryce and Mr Austin. They provided communication throughout the whole project
I received excellent service from Mr Uriel, Mr Bryce and Mr Austin. They provided communication throughout the whole project
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Sean completed our yearly inspection and he was very thorough!
Sean completed our yearly inspection and he was very thorough!
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Carlos, Edwin, Julio, Margarito were all very professional. They worked very hard for two days and finished the job as promised.
Carlos, Edwin, Julio, Margarito were all very professional. They worked very hard for two days and finished the job as promised.
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Jesse was super nice and and very helpful explaining what services the company offered. If I ever need any work I will call AFS.
Jesse was super nice and and very helpful explaining what services the company offered. If I ever need any work I will call AFS.
Crawl Space Repair Solutions
If you’re having a problem with your crawl space, you’ve come to the right place. Whatever your issue, we have the products and experience that you need to find the best solution.
Crawl Space Insulation
Effective crawl space insulation tackles crawl space moisture and escalating energy costs. Learn about our innovative solution!
Crawl Space Dehumidifier
Get superior crawl space moisture management with AFS's innovative AquaStop™ Crawl Space Air System.
Crawl Space Sump Pump
Discover how AFS's crawl space sump pumps remove standing water and create a healthier living space!
Crawl Space Vapor Barrier
Seal out water by installing a vapor barrier from AFS. Our superior system controls moisture and creates peace of mind.
Is Crawl Space Encapsulation the Right Solution for Me?
Have you ever wondered if those vents in your crawl space are really doing their job? For years, the common wisdom was that venting a crawl space would keep it dry by “airing it out.” But those vents often allow more moisture in, turning your crawl space into a breeding ground for mold and mildew. With higher humidity levels sneaking in through the vents, your home’s foundation may suffer from ongoing moisture issues that can compromise indoor air quality and even lead to structural damage.
That’s why crawl space encapsulation has become the go-to solution for many homeowners. Encapsulating your crawl space seals it off from outside moisture, transforming it from a damp, neglected area into a clean, dry, and usable part of your home.
Beyond just protecting your foundation, encapsulation boosts energy efficiency, keeps your indoor air healthier, and adds long-term value to your home. If you’re looking for a smarter, more effective way to control moisture and maintain a healthier living environment, crawl space encapsulation could be the perfect solution.
AFS Foundation & Waterproofing Specialists has been providing cutting-edge crawl space encapsulation products for more than 20 years. Our durable 120-mil-thick vapor barrier, combined with AquaStop™ thermal Insulation board, state-of-the-art sump pump systems, and high-capacity crawl space dehumidifiers, keeps your crawl space dry and greatly improves your home’s indoor air quality.
Why Is Crawl Space Waterproofing Needed?
Crawl spaces are often out of sight and out of mind, but if left unprotected, they can lead to serious issues. Many older homes still have exposed or vented crawl spaces, which can allow moisture, pests, and even mold to take hold. Here are the key reasons why an encapsulated crawl space is essential for a healthy, stable home:
Water Damage
Water damage is one of the biggest threats to your crawl space. A breakdown in the sump pump, cracks in the crawl space door, plumbing leaks, or foundation shifts can introduce moisture, transforming a dry crawl space into a damp, musty area. Over time, this can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and damage to your home’s foundation. Addressing the root causes of water damage first, followed by a professional waterproofing solution, keeps your crawl space dry, healthy, and protected.
Exposure
In many older homes, the crawl space is fully exposed or vented to the outside air, which allows moisture and humidity to enter freely. Encapsulation creates a sealed barrier that blocks moisture, pests, and cold drafts, turning the crawl space into a clean, controlled environment. Before encapsulating, it’s crucial to inspect for any existing issues, as covering up damage can allow problems like rot or mold to worsen unseen.
Deterioration
While waterproofing and encapsulation materials from big box stores say they are built to last, they won’t last forever. Over time, wear and tear reduce their effectiveness, leaving your crawl space vulnerable to moisture. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure that your crawl space remains secure, even as the materials age, protecting your home’s structure and indoor air quality.
Whether you’re considering crawl space encapsulation for the first time or looking to upgrade your current setup, professional guidance is essential. An expert can assess your crawl space, explain the benefits, and provide a clear estimate of costs, helping you make the best choice to keep your home safe and resilient.
Crawl Space Encapsulation Steps
Interior Drainage and Sump Pump
The first step in creating an encapsulated crawl space starts with installing an interior drainage system and a sump pump, especially if you live in a place where flooding is common. Although not all crawl spaces need a sump pump, it might be important if you’re dealing with a leak or if your home has a build that will result in water slowly gathering in the crawl space. In these situations, a sump pump can be a great way to avoid further problems that standing crawl space water can cause.
The drainage system and sump pump work best when paired together. The specially designed EZ Flow™ Crawl Space Drainage System is placed in the crawl space floor to collect leaking water.
This water is then directed to drain into the sump pump system so that it can be properly removed from the crawl space. Additionally, drainage matting can be placed on the crawl space floor to help direct water from other parts of the crawl space to the perimeter EZ Flow™ system.
Vapor Barrier Liner
Next, ensure the crawl space doesn’t have an open dirt floor. If your crawl space has any open dirt space underneath it, which may be the case for some or all of your crawl space, it’s important to have an AFS Foundation & Waterproofing Specialist place a vapor barrier liner. By using only a 20-mil vapor barrier liner, the thickest liner available, you can be certain you’ll keep all water vapor outside your crawl space.
Remember that any dirt crawl space needs a vapor barrier. This is true whether the area appears to have a lot of moisture or seems mostly dry. Even dirt that seems dry will connect much further down to soil with a lot of moisture in it. Dirt retains moisture very far down, and any dirt in crawl spaces will eventually release that moisture. It’s a good idea to install a vapor barrier liner over any dirt areas in your crawl space.
Vent Covers
Installing airtight vent covers can fix this additional moisture problem. A vent cover is very easy to install, overall; all you have to do is fasten the vent cover on the vent and you’ll be protected from extra moisture that may come in from the vent. Vent covers can also protect you against pests that might enter through a vent and water that might come in during rain or floods. Overall, covering your crawl space vents is absolutely a better choice than leaving them open.
Dehumidifier
Lastly, especially if you tend to have a very humid home, it’s important to install a crawl space dehumidifier. Even if you’ve completely sealed off the crawl space from humidity, it’s still possible for the home and the area around it to carry more moisture, as is often the case in areas with humid subtropical climates. In these situations, you may need to consider a crawl space dehumidifier.
Dehumidifiers shouldn’t be your first step. If you have a humid crawl space, you can’t necessarily stick a dehumidifier in the space and call it done. You really need to tackle the base problem of the crawl space, which is probably open vents or a dirt crawl space, before you can install a dehumidifier. However, a dehumidifier can be a genuinely useful part of encapsulating a crawl space, so you also shouldn’t rule out the possibility for a dehumidifier.
Why Store-Bought Crawl Space Solutions Don’t Work
Store-bought crawl space solutions often don’t work well because they use lower-quality materials that aren’t built to withstand a crawl space environment. These spaces deal with a lot of moisture and temperature changes, and cheaper products can’t handle these conditions for very long.
Proper encapsulation also needs careful installation to make sure the space is fully sealed. DIY kits may not include everything needed, and without experience, it’s easy to leave gaps or wrinkles that let in moisture and pests. As a result, store-bought solutions can wear out quickly, leading to ongoing moisture problems, mold, and even damage to your home’s structure.
Common Crawl Space Tips & Mistakes
Tips:
- Even sealed crawl spaces can develop moisture, so a high-capacity, self-draining dehumidifier helps prevent mold and improves air quality throughout your home.
- Encapsulation stabilizes crawl space temperatures, reducing energy use and HVAC strain, which ultimately saves you money on utility bills and maintenance.
- While vented crawl spaces were once recommended, sealing them is now preferred to block humid air, mold, and allergens from entering your home.
Mistakes:
- Failing to install a backup sump pump can lead to flooding if the main pump breaks or loses power.
- Waterproofing alone isn’t enough; full encapsulation with sealed walls and floors is needed to prevent mold and improve indoor air quality.
- DIY encapsulation can backfire without professional-grade materials and proper installation, leading to issues with condensation, pests, and mold growth.
- Not all crawl space insulation is alike—only closed-cell wallboard resists moisture and provides an effective R-value, while fiberglass and spray foam can worsen moisture problems.
Providing Expert Crawl Space Repair in Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Florida, and Tennessee
Customers across Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, Kentucky and Florida trust AFS Foundation & Waterproofing Specialists for reliable crawl space, foundation, basement waterproofing, and concrete repair services. Contact us for a free inspection!
Top Cities We Serve
Crawl Space Encapsulation Resources
Our Locations
130 Interstate Commerce Crt. Bldg. 100 & 200
Alabaster, AL 35007
806 N Holtzclaw Ave.
Chattanooga, TN 37404
2701 Opelika Road
Phenix City, AL 36870
1909 Montgomery Hwy, Suite 322,
Dothan, AL 36303
118 E Mobile St
Florence, AL 35630
1317 26th Ave, Ste 101
Gulfport, MS 39501
2415 Jordan Road
Huntsville, AL 35811
3028 E Governor John Sevier Highway
Knoxville, TN 37914
13105 Middletown Industrial Blvd.
Louisville, KY 40223
3131 Hamilton Blvd.
Theodore, AL 36582
1519 Heil Quaker Blvd.
LaVergne, TN 37086
89 W. Hood Dr.
Pensacola, FL 32534