Photo Album: Mold in Crawlspace Removed in St. Petersburg, FL

Adrian and Luis S. recently purchased a home in St. Petersburg, Florida, but soon discovered a mold problem in the crawlspace which caused musty smells throughout the house. They quickly reached out to LRE Foundation Repair for assistance. After conducting a thorough inspection, LRE determined that the mold was due to poor grading and excess moisture, as well as rotten wood that compromised the foundation's integrity and caused concrete column supports to fail. To address these issues, LRE designed a comprehensive solution that began with Crawlspace Encapsulation. This involved using various materials to repel excess water, regulate the climate, and promote proper airflow. With the crawlspace now protected, LRE installed the SmartJack system - galvanized steel support posts and supplemental beams that replaced the previous wood and concrete structures. These SmartJacks are a permanent addition to the home, providing much-needed stability to the foundation. Finally, LRE installed a new drainage system to divert water away from the foundation and into the yard, which relieved the new homeowners' concerns once and for all.

Wood Deterioration in Crawlspace

LRE designed a permanent solution to protect the crawlspace and home from major problems caused by mold and wood deterioration.

Concrete Block Supports

Many Florida crawlspaces have concrete block columns like the one shown here. These columns can be compromised due to over-exposure to the elements and wood rot.

Drainage Matting in Crawlspace

Part of the Crawlspace Encapsulation system is the installation of water-resistant materials like this drainage matting, which helps direct the flow of water out of the crawlspace.

Vapor Barrier Installation

A vapor barrier slows the evaporation of ground moisture into the crawlspace air, and when coupled with an encapsulation system, moisture and water can be expelled before it can cause problems.

Crawlspace Climate Control

A dehumidifier drys out a damp crawlspace and controls humidity, preventing mold and mildew.

Steel Support Posts Installed in Crawlspace

Steel support posts, or SmartJacks, are installed to straighten and strengthen bouncy, sagging floors above a crawlspace. These galvanized steel posts can also be adjusted when floors need to be re-leveled.