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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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Evan, Aldo, and Jorge did any amazing job! It was quick simple and they explained everything clearly for us to understand. I definitely…

Evan, Aldo, and Jorge did any amazing job! It was quick simple and they explained everything clearly for us to understand. I definitely recommend them for your foundation needs! Thank you to everyone at AFS!!

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Will Edwards was hands down the most information employee AFS has ever sent out to inspect our home! Respectful,informative, and most…

Will Edwards was hands down the most information employee AFS has ever sent out to inspect our home! Respectful,informative, and most importantly honest!

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AFS was able to out the very next day after I called. Alex is very knowledgeable, friendly and respectful.

AFS was able to out the very next day after I called. Alex is very knowledgeable, friendly and respectful.

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We highly recommend Tanner with AFS. He spent over four hours thoroughly inspecting our home and crawlspace, carefully checking for cracks, …

We highly recommend Tanner with AFS. He spent over four hours thoroughly inspecting our home and crawlspace, carefully checking for cracks, measuring areas, and documenting everything in detail. Tanner prepared a clear printout of our home and walked us through each concern step by step, explaining what he found and what repairs may be needed. He was professional, patient, knowledgeable, and took the time to answer all of our questions without rushing. We truly appreciated how thorough and respectful he was during the inspection process. His attention to detail and clear explanations gave us confidence in understanding the condition of our crawlspace and the next steps. If you want someone who is honest, careful, and extremely thorough, Tanner is an excellent choice.

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Antonio, Rene, and Jose did a great job and kept me informed. We will recommend you to everyone. Matt explained everything very well. He…

Antonio, Rene, and Jose did a great job and kept me informed. We will recommend you to everyone. Matt explained everything very well. He answered all our questions and was so helpful. Thank you.

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When we decided we needed a structural issue resolved, I did rather extensive research of the prospective companies and decided on AFS. We…

When we decided we needed a structural issue resolved, I did rather extensive research of the prospective companies and decided on AFS. We made a very good decision and would happily recommend their work to anyone. Eli came out and did an extensive inspection. He was very knowledgeable and went over all of our options in a clear manner and answered all of our questions. Eli was a delight to meet and work with. Johnny and his instal crew of Michael & Michael also did a great job. They arrived right on time and ready to go. Johnny went over all of the project details. He answered all our questions. His team worked hard and efficiently. They had a large project done in approximately four hours. They cleaned up as well as possible after a pretty elaborate repair. Johnny and his team took care of all our concerns. Johnny and the Michaels were also great to work with.

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AFS recently reframed the flooring in a historic home that was built in 1813 as part of a capital improvement project, the project was…

AFS recently reframed the flooring in a historic home that was built in 1813 as part of a capital improvement project, the project was completed on time and without any problems. Tony B., Foreman, and his team Israel and Taylor F. did a great job, they were on time, worked diligently, professional, and knowledgeable. I was the Site Manager, they answered all of my questions and kept me updated on their progress. Tony provided me with a series of pictures of the project from start to finish for my files.

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AFS Foundation and Waterproofing: I wanted to underpin a slab on grade, to ensure it is not going to develop cracks in the future.The ASF…

AFS Foundation and Waterproofing: I wanted to underpin a slab on grade, to ensure it is not going to develop cracks in the future.The ASF crew of Spencer, Oscar and Collin was prompt, professional and curteous. They explained all they were going to do, completed the job rapidly and left the place clean.

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Jason was excellent – On time and immediately repaired the minor fix. Courteous also, and very attentive to our basement pump system!

Jason was excellent – On time and immediately repaired the minor fix. Courteous also, and very attentive to our basement pump system!

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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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I had great experience with AFS Groundworks and couldn’t be more satisfied with the work they did encapsulating my crawl space. From start…

I had great experience with AFS Groundworks and couldn’t be more satisfied with the work they did encapsulating my crawl space. From start to finish, the team was professional, knowledgeable, and easy to work with. Joe, Evan, and Edwin really stood out—they took the time to explain the process, answered all my questions, and made sure everything was done right. You can tell they take pride in their work, and it shows in the final result. The crawl space looks clean, sealed, and built to last. If you’re looking for a reliable team that delivers quality work and great customer service, I highly recommend AFS Groundworks. These guys did an outstanding job!

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Very professional and polite crew fixed my house and made me like it again.

Very professional and polite crew fixed my house and made me like it again.

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Evan, Aldo and Jorge hit it out of the park on my crawlspace. My crawlspace went from a fishing pond to a surgery room. Also, one of those…

Evan, Aldo and Jorge hit it out of the park on my crawlspace. My crawlspace went from a fishing pond to a surgery room. Also, one of those guys sure can sing! Thanks again

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Nick and Josh were such professional and kind young gentleman who explained the entire procedure . I am highly pleased with their work!

Nick and Josh were such professional and kind young gentleman who explained the entire procedure . I am highly pleased with their work!

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I called AFS for mold/fungus inspection. To prevent further damage they installed a dehumidifier and encapsulated the crawlspace. I am…

I called AFS for mold/fungus inspection. To prevent further damage they installed a dehumidifier and encapsulated the crawlspace. I am happy with the professionalism with their staff and services. Dustin Gilbert, the inspector was informative, polite and no pressure applied to cement the sale. The installers, Randle S. & Austin C., were polite and professional. I am pleased with the service they provided. I would recommend AFS should you have need for their services.

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AFS was very good to work with. Caleb Loy provided a timely quote along with detailed information, including drawings, about the work to be …

AFS was very good to work with. Caleb Loy provided a timely quote along with detailed information, including drawings, about the work to be done which was shoring up underneath the house, the lack of which was causing the floor to sink and walls to crack. The job was scheduled without delay. Crew consisting of Ridley, Lowe and Murphy were courteous and professional. They got the job done in the time stated. They took me under the house to show/explain in detail what had been done. I would recommend AFS for this type work.

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Jacob was super helpful and professional. The communication from him was top tier. The guys who came and did the work were friendly and did …

Jacob was super helpful and professional. The communication from him was top tier. The guys who came and did the work were friendly and did a great job.

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Ricardo and his team installed a pump system in our crawl space. They were very professional. Our sales person was Wyatt and he was awesome …

Ricardo and his team installed a pump system in our crawl space. They were very professional. Our sales person was Wyatt and he was awesome and not pushy and investigated our water problem and made suggestions of how to solve it. Your company was great. I recommend them highly. Monique scheduled everything. All was right on time.!!!! Thank you!!!

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I've done business with AFS for several years.. always been happy with their quality work and professionalism! I've had encapsulation and…

I've done business with AFS for several years.. always been happy with their quality work and professionalism! I've had encapsulation and foundation work done. I would highly and happily recommend them to anyone. Casey H and Clay G did a great job and very efficient Thank you

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Bob Fuller did my inspection and was super informative and thorough. Thanks Bob.

Bob Fuller did my inspection and was super informative and thorough. Thanks Bob.

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