Which Waterproofing Method Should I Use?

Once you understand how crucial it is to waterproof your crawl space, your next question might be which method of waterproofing you should choose: encapsulation, interior drain, sump pump, and dehumidifier. The truth is, if you really want to ensure your crawl space remains dry and healthy for the rest of its existence, you need to choose all four options. Every single method has its own special purpose, and to use one without the other would be to leave the waterproofing job incomplete. 

North Carolina has a serious issue with water and moisture ruining the structural integrity of its buildings. Therefore, it’s important for you to use every method available to fully waterproof your crawl space.  

• Why You Need Encapsulation 

Whatever method you choose to waterproof your crawl space, it can’t be considered true waterproofing if it doesn’t involve encapsulation. To encapsulate a crawl space is to close it off and prevent any water from getting it. Given the fact that North Carolina gets floods very frequently, you will want to make sure the crawl space is impermeable. Encapsulation also helps create an inhospitable environment for pests and animals, and it makes it more difficult for them to get inside. 

You can’t guarantee absolute dryness with just a sump pump and a dehumidifier, and this lack of dryness will end up deteriorating your crawl space. The sump pump will drain out the water and the big industry dehumidifier will handle the humidity, but your crawl space is still getting wet from time to time. Wood, concrete, and pipes suffer from constant exposure to water, so in order to protect them, it’s best to encapsulate the crawl space. 

• Why You Need a Sump Pump and Dehumidifier  

Encapsulation does wonders to keep high amounts of water from entering a crawl space. That said, encapsulation does nothing to remove any water that could get in and the humidity it creates afterward. Sure, encapsulation will make going down your crawl space a lot easier and safer, so you could get rid of the water yourself. However, most homeowners don’t realize when their crawl space gets wet. Not to mention, it’s tiring work, especially if you have a very small crawl space you can barely squeeze through. 

No matter how well you think you’ve cleaned the crawl space and cleared out all the water, there will always be humidity in the air. Humidity is a lot more detrimental than you think, so once you’ve gone through the steps to waterproofing your crawl space with encapsulation, interior drainage, and a sump pump, complete the process and add a dehumidifier made for crawl spaces.