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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Matthew Ridley and Shawn Lowe came and completed foundation work for us today in bad weather/ icy road conditions when most people would…
Matthew Ridley and Shawn Lowe came and completed foundation work for us today in bad weather/ icy road conditions when most people would have stayed home. The work was done in a timely manner, and they cleaned up after themselves once the job was complete. They communicated with us throughout the process and spoke to us once the job was complete to make sure it was done to our satisfaction. We really couldn't have asked for a better experience. 100% recommend them for your foundation repair needs!
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We had a great experience with AFS! After dealing with multiple opinions and estimates regarding our basement/foundation concerns, AFS came …
We had a great experience with AFS! After dealing with multiple opinions and estimates regarding our basement/foundation concerns, AFS came in with a practical, straightforward approach that made us feel much more comfortable moving forward. Their team was professional, knowledgeable, and took the time to explain the stabilization process without using scare tactics or trying to oversell unnecessary work. The installation crew was timely, respectful of our home, and completed the job efficiently. We especially appreciated how responsive and patient they were throughout the process, answering questions and helping us better understand the engineer’s recommendations. The finished work looks clean and gives us peace of mind moving forward. If you’re looking for a foundation company that is honest, professional, and solution-focused, we would definitely recommend AFS.
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Sean did a great job servicing my products and explaining information during the visit.
Sean did a great job servicing my products and explaining information during the visit.
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Kyle Ballew Very thorough and timely service
Kyle Ballew Very thorough and timely service
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Great experience from beginning to end. Everything was explained very well from the inspector Christopher throughout the process. The…
Great experience from beginning to end. Everything was explained very well from the inspector Christopher throughout the process. The install crew Victor, Uver, and Guadalupe were very professional and was even able to finish ahead of schedule.
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If you need a permanent fix for your foundation- AFS is the answer! Kyle is great and is intent on getting you a solution to your problem.
If you need a permanent fix for your foundation- AFS is the answer! Kyle is great and is intent on getting you a solution to your problem.
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The guys at AFS did an incredible job all around. everything looks great and professionally done. The guys were friendly and explained…
The guys at AFS did an incredible job all around. everything looks great and professionally done. The guys were friendly and explained everything very thoroughly and made it very easy to understand. 11/10 I would recommend AFS to absolutely everyone.
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Reese was super helpful and kind. Great working with him!
Reese was super helpful and kind. Great working with him!
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Very professional and thorough team, but more importantly, super respectful. Caleb Loy (and Keith) provided a service that left me…
Very professional and thorough team, but more importantly, super respectful. Caleb Loy (and Keith) provided a service that left me comfortable and confident in the abilities AFS. I look forward to a day we can collab and restore my homes integrity.
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I originally was a long time employee of their competitor Frontier so naturally I knew about Frontiers price assurance guarantee….
I originally was a long time employee of their competitor Frontier so naturally I knew about Frontiers price assurance guarantee. unfortunately Frontier and their front office were not willing to honor their PAG. So after speaking to Tom and answering all my questions he made me feel at ease to give AFS a shot and they didn’t disappoint and blew my expectations out of the water. The concrete team of Josh and Adam were professional, extra careful and did a phenomenal job to getting my renovation project back on track. I was so impressed I already am talking to my wife about using them to do our driveway in the near future. I have had Frontier in the past do concrete before, but as a former customer and employee of frontier, AFS was way head and shoulders above the with their company and the quality of work. Thank you again Josh B. And Adam M. for your amazing work!
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Shout at to the entire crew at AFS. From my inspector, Eric Knowlton, through the Production Manager, James Such, to my hands own crew…
Shout at to the entire crew at AFS. From my inspector, Eric Knowlton, through the Production Manager, James Such, to my hands own crew lead by foreman Nikoli Elrod and his stud group of co-foreman and installers including: Christian Parrish, Edgar Perez and Clayton Cox. I just can't say enough good things about this project and the team that installed it. Our home had experienced differential settlement along the left rear corner, needed extensive stabilization of its floor framing, and had tons of both water and vapor reaping havoc in my crawlspace. The AFS team landed like the marines and just took care of business. They called every day before heading out, as well as activating an app that let me track their progress like a pizza delivery — just not used to that with home construction projects. They showed up on time and worked late and completed our projects ahead of schedule And most importantly, they did all of this while remaining amazingly kind and respectful. These are the sort of folks you want to work around your home. Thanks again to Nikoli and crew for a phenomenal job at our home! PS: Below is a picture of them taking the time to help me lift my pool table. Completely beyond the scope of their contracted work, but illustrative of their can do attitude:)
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Michael and Dee are phenomenal! AFS has a fantastic crew. Love this team!
Michael and Dee are phenomenal! AFS has a fantastic crew. Love this team!
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Jesse, Juan, and Jorge did a good job at my house. They arrived on time, worked steadily, were perfect gentlemen, and fixed my problem.
Jesse, Juan, and Jorge did a good job at my house. They arrived on time, worked steadily, were perfect gentlemen, and fixed my problem.
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From start to finish, a great experience. Very thorough in their inspection. Not at all pushy in recommendations. Here when they said they…
From start to finish, a great experience. Very thorough in their inspection. Not at all pushy in recommendations. Here when they said they would be & did the work exactly as promised. Were they the cheapest? No. Did they exceed our expectations? Yes. Pay a little more & have it done right first time around. You won’t disappointed.
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AFS is very thorough in there inspections and carefully consider what they recommend to the customer. Matt Carter walked us through what we …
AFS is very thorough in there inspections and carefully consider what they recommend to the customer. Matt Carter walked us through what we could do and should do without any high pressure sales tactics. He took the time necessary to explain everything while still respecting our time and family schedule. If this service is something your house needs, definitely give AFS a call.
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Jordan with AFS had the knowledge, tools and team to help me sure up my foundation. He saved me thousands in what would have been upcoming…
Jordan with AFS had the knowledge, tools and team to help me sure up my foundation. He saved me thousands in what would have been upcoming repairs and helped build my homes value! 10/10 would recommend! I’ll be calling back when I’m ready fix my porch!
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They were very polite and kept me informed of everything they were doing.The crew was excellent
They were very polite and kept me informed of everything they were doing.The crew was excellent
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Reid Walley was very professionally and polite. He reviewed the inspection with me and also covered possible concerns. Truly appreciated…
Reid Walley was very professionally and polite. He reviewed the inspection with me and also covered possible concerns. Truly appreciated the quality of service/sales personnel that AFS hires
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The crew that came out from AFS to install 6 pillars were fantastic. They are Josh B Bailey L Isaiah W Kuda They worked awesome as a team!!!…
The crew that came out from AFS to install 6 pillars were fantastic. They are Josh B Bailey L Isaiah W Kuda They worked awesome as a team!!! The work was explained to me what they were going to do, how they were going to do it, and what materials they were using. Answered any and all questions. One of the points they made was they would dig down till they hit rock, well here in Mt. Juliet you don’t have to dig very far as a matter of fact footer sat on rock ( 5 of 6 did) These men had jackhammers to bust out rock a foot down them undermine the footer 6” in order to get pillars in. They worked for two days jackhammering to accomplish this task. They worked together not just one doing all the work, they were awesome!!! Hard to find good workers like that anymore!!! It would be nice if they had a hoe ram attachment for their mini-x Would have saved them time and their backs. Once again they Never Slacked!!! I would highly recommend this group to do any of your work you need done ! They respected our home , yard and dogs:)! They were very professional Thank you we appreciate it very much I would like to give 10 starts but not an option. Call em you won’t be sorry you did !!!
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Communication was excellent, the entire team was very professional, they made the whole process very easy and pleasant, and did a great job …
Communication was excellent, the entire team was very professional, they made the whole process very easy and pleasant, and did a great job stabilizing my chimney.
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 40233
3131 Hamilton Blvd.
Theodore, AL 36582
1519 Heil Quaker Blvd.
LaVergne, TN 37086
89 W. Hood Dr.
Pensacola, FL 32534