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Crawl Space Encapsulation & Repair

Addressing all of your crawl space’s issues will promote energy efficiency and comfort in your home.

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Groundworks, LLC BBB Business Review
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My experience with the company was Fantastic. Ben, Mario, Angel was the most professional people and explained everything very thoroughly…

My experience with the company was Fantastic. Ben, Mario, Angel was the most professional people and explained everything very thoroughly when asked. Took pictures of everything. Great group of guys! Highly recommend these guys for working on your house.

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We were very happy with the service that AFS provided. Earle, Clayton and Chris were always on time and worked hard to finish the job.

We were very happy with the service that AFS provided. Earle, Clayton and Chris were always on time and worked hard to finish the job.

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Nate was great! He took his time examining our home and walking through what to look out for. We ultimately didn’t need to have any repairs …

Nate was great! He took his time examining our home and walking through what to look out for. We ultimately didn’t need to have any repairs or work done at this time, but if and when we do in the future, we will definitely reach back out to AFS. We appreciate their honest and dependable business!

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Alan McConnell was prompt with his appointment today. He kept me informed about his arrival time. After his inspection he gave me great…

Alan McConnell was prompt with his appointment today. He kept me informed about his arrival time. After his inspection he gave me great details on what needed to be done. He also showed me a disgram of everything that needed to be done.. I wish everyone that I deal with would be as nice, polite and know what he was talking about as much as he does. I felt like I could trust him. Sincerely S. Oller

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Alex was fantastic. We had multiple cracks in the concrete outside our house and were worried it was a more serious foundation issue. Alex…

Alex was fantastic. We had multiple cracks in the concrete outside our house and were worried it was a more serious foundation issue. Alex did a 90 minute inspection for free and found no major issues. He gave us some tips as well. Very, very happy with this company!

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From the initial phone call to schedule my appointment to the completion of the repairs, the team was consistently kind, informative, and…

From the initial phone call to schedule my appointment to the completion of the repairs, the team was consistently kind, informative, and professional. I truly wish I could remember everyone’s name, as they all deserve endless recognition for their excellent service. I would absolutely choose to work with them again without hesitation.

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Lashun, Antonio, and Mario did a great job. They kept me informed of what was happening and their work actually fixed the crack in the…

Lashun, Antonio, and Mario did a great job. They kept me informed of what was happening and their work actually fixed the crack in the brick. I am pleased with everything.

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Nick bohal was extremely informative and helpful with all questions I had about the install!

Nick bohal was extremely informative and helpful with all questions I had about the install!

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Service was performed in a timely manner and above our expectations.Isaiah was very precise in explanations of pre work, during and after…

Service was performed in a timely manner and above our expectations.Isaiah was very precise in explanations of pre work, during and after completion of work being performed.Thank you and have a blessed day.Jihn 3:16-18

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I helped my sister, Rebecca Morris get her sagging floors and foundation repaired on her home. We worked with Bryan Patrick from DFX. …

I helped my sister, Rebecca Morris get her sagging floors and foundation repaired on her home. We worked with Bryan Patrick from DFX. Bryan was great to work with and was very knowledgeable about his product and services as well as the repairs that were needed. He answered all our questions, was very punctual and accountable both before, during and after the work was completed. His team did an outstanding job leveling her floors, bracing the support beams and replacing bad floor joist. I would highly recommend DFX to anyone needing repairs on floors and foundations. Bryan and DFX were also the best price. They created drawings, and shared what all would need to be done, they were courteous and did excellent work. I would certainly use Bryan and the DFX team again. I give them 10 stars for making my sister happy. She is 84 years old and didn't have anywhere else to turn and DFX came through. Thank you Bryan and DFX. We really appreciate you. It was a pleasure meeting you and seeing your work completed. Thanks.

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Scott Alsabrook from AFS came out to do our yearly service. He put a new battery in and serviced everything and even took pictures of…

Scott Alsabrook from AFS came out to do our yearly service. He put a new battery in and serviced everything and even took pictures of underneath the house and shared with me. Very professional and kind.

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Matt Carter and Jonathan Lawson came and thoroughly inspected my home and carefully explained the problems and solutions to fix my home.

Matt Carter and Jonathan Lawson came and thoroughly inspected my home and carefully explained the problems and solutions to fix my home.

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Reid Walley and Joe Burnette were on time and very professional. They were scheduled for my annual service and did a fantastic job. I…

Reid Walley and Joe Burnette were on time and very professional. They were scheduled for my annual service and did a fantastic job. I highly recommend Reid and Joe if you are having any foundation issues. Highly recommend!

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Logan, Jacob, And Braeden are amazing. Very efficient and knowledgeable about the job. They listened to my concerns and gave expert advice…

Logan, Jacob, And Braeden are amazing. Very efficient and knowledgeable about the job. They listened to my concerns and gave expert advice on how to resolve our home issues best. If I could give them 6 stars I would. Thankyou for everything.

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We had a wonderful experience with Nate. He was personable, knowledgeable, and very kind. He took his time explaining things to us and…

We had a wonderful experience with Nate. He was personable, knowledgeable, and very kind. He took his time explaining things to us and answered our many questions. We did not feel rushed or pressured to make a decision. He clearly knows his field and was able to tell us everything we need to know to make the best decision for our situation. We would highly recommend him and this company!

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Concrete pool deck stabilization and lifting. Pre arrival communication was good. Parris Houchins and Bug Boyd arrived on time, and did the …

Concrete pool deck stabilization and lifting. Pre arrival communication was good. Parris Houchins and Bug Boyd arrived on time, and did the work professionally and efficiently.

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Parris and Kyle did a great job on a tough project. Both were very professional and masters of their craft. Shout out to Jordan as well….

Parris and Kyle did a great job on a tough project. Both were very professional and masters of their craft. Shout out to Jordan as well. Great job AFS definitely recommend

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The crew of Taylor, Nick and Manuel came out to do a drainage system and an encapsulation of my crawlspace and I couldn’t be happier. We’ve …

The crew of Taylor, Nick and Manuel came out to do a drainage system and an encapsulation of my crawlspace and I couldn’t be happier. We’ve had multiple thunderstorms since they’ve come out and the crawlspace is dryer than ever. I would definitely recommend their crew to anyone

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Allan Proctor did an inspection of my crawl spaces today. He advised of some improvements that have been made to the encapsulation process….

Allan Proctor did an inspection of my crawl spaces today. He advised of some improvements that have been made to the encapsulation process. My encapsulation from 6 year's ago could use some updates. The one from 2 years ago is perfect. He explained the industry’s standards have changed, and explained in detail the upgrades that are recommended. Very thorough. Appreciate all the time he spent answering all my questions. Definitely an asset to AFS.

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Rob Lenoir is an absolute pleasure to work with. He brings a rare combination of professionalism, expertise, and genuine kindness. From the …

Rob Lenoir is an absolute pleasure to work with. He brings a rare combination of professionalism, expertise, and genuine kindness. From the very beginning, Rob demonstrated clear communication, thoughtful attention to detail, and a strong commitment to excellence. What truly sets Rob apart is his integrity—you can trust him to follow through and solve problems proactively. He listens carefully, offers insightful input, and his positive attitude and capable presence gave me confidence that my situation would be handled with care and thoughtfulness. I would confidently recommend Rob Lenoir to anyone looking for someone dependable, skilled, and genuinely great to work with.

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.

3d cut out of crawl space repair solutions.
Fully Encapsulated Crawl Space

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:

Dirt crawl space with fallen insulation.

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.

Wet and messy crawl space.

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.

Dirt crawl space with fallen insulation.

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.
AFS service area

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

AFS service area

Our Locations

Birmingham AL

130 Interstate Commerce Crt. Bldg. 100 & 200
Alabaster, AL 35007

Chattanooga TN

806 N Holtzclaw Ave.
Chattanooga, TN 37404

Columbus GA

2701 Opelika Road
Phenix City, AL 36870

Dothan AL

1909 Montgomery Hwy, Suite 322,
Dothan, AL 36303

Florence AL

118 E Mobile St
Florence, AL 35630

Gulfport MS

1317 26th Ave, Ste 101
Gulfport, MS 39501

Huntsville AL

2415 Jordan Road
Huntsville, AL 35811

Knoxville TN

3028 E Governor John Sevier Highway
Knoxville, TN 37914

Louisville KY

13105 Middletown Industrial Blvd.
Louisville, KY 40223

Mobile AL / Biloxi MS

3131 Hamilton Blvd.
Theodore, AL 36582

Nashville TN

1519 Heil Quaker Blvd.
LaVergne, TN 37086

Pensacola FL

89 W. Hood Dr.
Pensacola, FL 32534