Crawl Space Repair in Fairfax Station, Virginia
Challenge
A homeowner in Roanoke, Virginia had lived in their home for over fifteen years and had always noticed a faint musty odor, especially during the spring and summer months. Over time, the smell grew stronger and began spreading into the living areas of the home. Floors felt cold and slightly damp, and allergy symptoms became more noticeable among family members. When the homeowner finally inspected the crawl space, they discovered exposed soil, standing moisture, falling insulation, and signs of mold forming along the wooden joists. Moisture from the ground was constantly evaporating into the crawl space air, creating a damp environment that was being pulled into the home through the stack effect.
The homeowner was concerned not only about indoor air quality but also about the long-term impact this moisture could have on their home’s structural integrity. Wood rot, pest activity, and mold growth were all real risks if the crawl space was left untreated. They reached out to Fortress Foundation Solutions looking for a permanent solution.
Solution
Our System Design Specialist performed a full crawl space inspection and confirmed that the exposed earth and high humidity were the primary sources of moisture. To eliminate this problem, we installed the CleanSpace® Vapor Barrier System, completely encapsulating the crawl space floor and walls. This thick, durable liner seals the crawl space from ground moisture and prevents damp air from entering the home.
To control airborne humidity and improve air quality, we also installed the SaniDry™ Sedona Dehumidifier. This high-efficiency system continuously removes excess moisture while filtering mold spores, dust, and allergens from the air.
After installation, the crawl space was transformed into a clean, dry, and sealed environment. Musty odors disappeared, humidity stabilized, and the homeowner noticed a significant improvement in comfort and air quality throughout the home. The crawl space now protects the structure instead of threatening it.