Crawl Space Encapsulation & Structural Stabilization in Alton Bay, NH
Challenge
A homeowner in Alton Bay, NH contacted Erickson Foundation Solutions after experiencing musty odors, noticeably cold floors, and areas of sagging within their home—common red flags associated with an unencapsulated, damp crawl space. Our Customer Care Specialist promptly scheduled a home inspection, followed by a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a System Design Specialist. The assessment confirmed excess moisture and a lack of encapsulation, both of which contributed to structural and comfort issues. We designed a multi-faceted plan to stabilize the structure, control water, and create a clean, energy-efficient crawl space.
Products & Quantities Installed:
- Debris Removal - complete crawl space pre-clean and preparation
- 3 SmartJacks™ - adjustable steel support posts
- 560 sq ft SilverGlo® - crawl space wall insulation
- 1,047 sq ft Drainage Matting - floor drainage pathway
- 1,047 sq ft CleanSpace® - encapsulation liner
- 1 UltraSump® Sump Pump - dedicated pump system for crawl space
Solution
On installation day, the team began by protecting access areas and removing all debris from the crawl space. Clearing out organic material, construction remnants, and loose debris created a safe, even surface for the encapsulation components and ensured that every product would adhere properly and perform effectively long-term. A clean work area is foundational for a reliable crawl space system, helping reduce odor risk and improving overall system durability.
Once preparation was complete, the crew began the structural stabilization phase using three SmartJack™ support posts. After identifying the areas where the homeowner’s floors were sagging, the team installed engineered footing pads and cut each SmartJack™ to the precise height needed for optimal support. The posts were positioned beneath weakened beams, secured, and carefully tightened to lift the floors back toward their original level. This not only restored strength and stability but also provided an adjustable long-term solution that can be fine‑tuned if needed in the future.
With the floor structure stabilized, the team shifted focus to moisture management, beginning with the installation of 1,047 square feet of drainage matting across the crawl space floor. The dimpled matting was laid throughout the entire area, overlapping seams and creating a uniform drainage plane. This system channels groundwater and seepage toward the sump location, preventing water from pooling beneath the encapsulation layer and helping reduce hydrostatic pressure within the crawl space.
To actively manage water removal, the team installed an UltraSump® sump pump system. The crew excavated a sump pit at the lowest point of the space, set the sump liner, and installed the UltraSump® pump, complete with discharge piping routed safely away from the foundation. The drainage matting was connected to the basin to ensure efficient water flow. Once installed, the team tested the system to confirm reliable pumping performance.
Next, the team addressed the thermal efficiency and comfort concerns by installing 560 square feet of SilverGlo® insulation along the crawl space walls. These rigid, reflective foam panels were mechanically fastened and sealed at all edges to create a continuous insulating barrier. SilverGlo® helps regulate temperature, prevents heat loss through the foundation walls, and reduces drafts—directly contributing to warmer floors inside the home. Its moisture-resistant composition also prevents condensation, helping to further maintain a healthy environment beneath the house.
With insulation complete, the crew installed the final key component: the CleanSpace® encapsulation system. Over the drainage matting, 1,047 square feet of CleanSpace® liner were fitted across the entire crawl space. The team wrapped the liner up walls, around support piers, and across all penetrations, sealing every seam to create an airtight barrier. This high‑quality vapor barrier locks out moisture from the soil, dramatically reduces humidity levels, eliminates musty odors, and transforms the crawl space into a clean, dry, protected environment.
After completing the installation, the team performed a full cleanup and walked the homeowner through the newly installed systems. The results were immediately noticeable. The once‑soft and uneven floors were now properly supported and level, the drafts and cold spots diminished thanks to the SilverGlo® insulation, and the musty odors that once permeated the home were entirely gone. The combination of SmartJacks™, drainage matting, UltraSump®, SilverGlo®, and CleanSpace® worked together to create a dry, stable, energy‑efficient crawl space that supports the long‑term health of the home.
This project stands as a strong example of Erickson Foundation Solutions’ comprehensive approach to crawl space repair—one that addresses structural issues, moisture intrusion, and home comfort simultaneously. The homeowner now enjoys peace of mind knowing their crawl space has been transformed into a secure, durable, and resilient part of their home.
Project Summary
Crew Foreman: Nate L
System Design Specialist: Victor T
Systems Installed: SmartJacks, SilverGlo, Drainage Matting, UltraSump, CleanSpace
