Photo Album: Replacing an Over 25 Year Old Vapor Barrier - Everett, WA

This homeowner had the same vapor barrier in their crawl space for over 25 years. They decided it had been there for long enough and wanted a professional to come and take a look at it. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the vapor barrier had been completely destroyed from water damage and that their was fiberglass insulation sagging from the sub-floor. We suggested that a full encapsulation would be the best long-term option to protect their crawl space against water damage. In order to begin the encapsulation process, we first needed to remove the old year old vapor barrier and take out all the deteriorated fiberglass insulation. Then, we seal the vents and install TerraBlock. This is a 3/4 in. thick insulation foam that is designed to separate the earth from the home. It helps to seal the crawl space off from the outside elements and improve the homes energy efficiency. This is because then the heating/cooling systems don't have to work as hard to keep up with the changing outside environments. Over top of the TerraBlock, we install a new CleanSpace vapor barrier. This vapor barrier differs from others because it is made with 20 mil woven fibers. Code regulated vapor barriers are only 6 mil thick and easily rip and tear. CleanSpace is installed on top of the TerraBlock, up the foundation walls, and between the concrete footing and wooden posts to isolate and protect. The final step in this process would be applying Spray Foam along the foundation walls and installing a SaniDry dehumidifier. This is to insulate and fully air seal the crawl space from the outside environments and protect against water and moisture. Now, this crawl space has been completely upgraded and is prepared to stay dry for many more years to come.