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
Incredible team, they did an amazing job
Incredible team, they did an amazing job
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Matt Carter is awesome. Explained everything in a professional manor. Would definitely recommend to anyone. Thanks Matt!
Matt Carter is awesome. Explained everything in a professional manor. Would definitely recommend to anyone. Thanks Matt!
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Uriel Aaron Edgar all showed up on time (actually earlier !!!) to install foundation support structures. Before starting they showed and…
Uriel Aaron Edgar all showed up on time (actually earlier !!!) to install foundation support structures. Before starting they showed and explained to ne what they were going to do, the support structures to be installed and asked me to come out and see the job progress. Upon completion, we did a walk around to see the actual install before covering back in the dig out holes Did a good job reclaiming the disturbed ground and placing the removed sod back in place Very happy with the job, workers were very nice and respectful. They answered all my questions to my satisfaction
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Just wanted to say Evan , Aldo , Jorge did a fantastic job and in a timely manner, they were pure professionals thank you AFS
Just wanted to say Evan , Aldo , Jorge did a fantastic job and in a timely manner, they were pure professionals thank you AFS
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Jorge,Daniel and Gabriel completed a job for us that was phenomenal. They placed a sump pump in the basement along with piping and it…
Jorge,Daniel and Gabriel completed a job for us that was phenomenal. They placed a sump pump in the basement along with piping and it looks very good. They were courteous and answered questions and kept us updated on the progress. I would recommend this crew to anyone. Thanks to Seth who initially came out to look at our problem and gave us the solution.
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Tyler Whitt was great to work with and the crew did a fast, efficient job in remedying crawl space issues.
Tyler Whitt was great to work with and the crew did a fast, efficient job in remedying crawl space issues.
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Yoni, Alex, and Ricardo were a hardworking crew. They stayed late when needed and communicated well. Very friendly and respectful and they…
Yoni, Alex, and Ricardo were a hardworking crew. They stayed late when needed and communicated well. Very friendly and respectful and they did quality work.
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We are an existing customer. After requesting a reinspection we were assigned Mike Chaffin. He was very thorough with a detailed report….
We are an existing customer. After requesting a reinspection we were assigned Mike Chaffin. He was very thorough with a detailed report. Very professional and my husband was pleased.
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Jesse Shontz was very knowledgeable of inspection he done explain every step and was not pushy on the sell of the product overall done a …
Jesse Shontz was very knowledgeable of inspection he done explain every step and was not pushy on the sell of the product overall done a great job.
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Emmet W. Was so polite and considerate of scheduling, promptness and knowledge. He took the time to explain all the details of the…
Emmet W. Was so polite and considerate of scheduling, promptness and knowledge. He took the time to explain all the details of the inspection. He is so exceptional that I hope he does my follow up inspection for my jacks next year. Thank you!
Modified review: Isaia contacted me yesterday and schedule re-do of my driveway for today. They came out today and redid my driveway. It is …
Modified review: Isaia contacted me yesterday and schedule re-do of my driveway for today. They came out today and redid my driveway. It is no longer sinking in the cracks but is flush with the driveway. I raised the stars to 5 from 3. Original review: I was very happy with the foam process for my sidewalk that was sinking but not happy with the crack repair in my driveway. The extra cost was not worth the result. I contacted Matt (sales) numerous times and sent before and after photos but have not heard back since October. I would recommend AFS for the foam process but not for crack repair.
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Nick Cianciolo came out to help inspect my previously installed project and was very informative and professional.
Nick Cianciolo came out to help inspect my previously installed project and was very informative and professional.
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Alex Nathan and Matthew came back and did some foundation repair underneath our house and made sure it was all level. Appreciate their…
Alex Nathan and Matthew came back and did some foundation repair underneath our house and made sure it was all level. Appreciate their hard work and getting the job done. Thanks guys!
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Uriel, Bryce, Jose did fabulous work !!
Uriel, Bryce, Jose did fabulous work !!
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I must say the men have done a great job. Darien,Bennie,Mike, D-Kotg and Zach . They had a tuff job but they worked very hard on this and…
I must say the men have done a great job. Darien,Bennie,Mike, D-Kotg and Zach . They had a tuff job but they worked very hard on this and did a good job
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Jason S. Is an outstanding guy! Really thorough and punctual. Would highly recommend for anyone in need of foundation work.
Jason S. Is an outstanding guy! Really thorough and punctual. Would highly recommend for anyone in need of foundation work.
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Rhett and Jordan ,this gentleman are so professional, and always help you with your house needs
Rhett and Jordan ,this gentleman are so professional, and always help you with your house needs
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Jesse came out and completed an inspection of my home foundation. I was really impressed with the company’s thoroughness. Jesse did a great …
Jesse came out and completed an inspection of my home foundation. I was really impressed with the company’s thoroughness. Jesse did a great job and provided a lot of information. Very professional, insightful, and courteous.
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We called AFS Knoxville after finding some concerning areas in our basement. Talon came out and took the time to fully educate us on the…
We called AFS Knoxville after finding some concerning areas in our basement. Talon came out and took the time to fully educate us on the issues we were seeing rather than just pitching a product/service. He also was so patient in answering all the questions we posed. Because of the initial consultation with Talon, we ultimately decided to move forward in working with AFS and are looking forward to seeing the end result!
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Excellent job by AFS. Parris and Bug were very professional and explained in detail the job description and expectations. They were great….
Excellent job by AFS. Parris and Bug were very professional and explained in detail the job description and expectations. They were great. Highly recommend.
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