The Benefits of Crawl Space Encapsulation

What’s lurking under your home? It’s easy to forget about your home’s crawlspace, but it can have a big impact on the health and safety of your house. If you haven’t already heard about crawlspace encapsulation, now is the time to learn more about it. Crawlspace encapsulation involves sealing off the crawlspace under your home and installing a heavy-duty plastic barrier to lock out moisture and pests. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top benefits of crawlspace encapsulation for your home.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

One of the most significant benefits of crawl space encapsulation is improved indoor air quality. When your crawl space is unsealed, it can allow moisture and mold to enter your home, which can lead to allergies and respiratory problems. By sealing off the crawl space, you prevent these harmful substances from entering your home and breathing environment. This can be especially beneficial for those with allergies or asthma.

Lower Energy Bills

Another advantage of crawl space encapsulation is lower energy bills. When your crawl space is not sealed, it allows air to escape, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This extra strain on your HVAC system can lead to higher energy bills. When your crawl space is encapsulated, on the other hand, it prevents air from escaping and allows your HVAC system to work more efficiently, lowering your energy bills in the process.

Increased Home Value

Crawl space encapsulation can also increase your home’s value. A sealed and encapsulated crawl space is seen as an asset during home inspections, and can make your home more attractive to potential buyers. It can also help prevent structural damage to your home over time, as it helps to maintain a consistent temperature and prevent moisture from entering.

Improved Structural Integrity

Moisture and water damage can have a significant impact on your home’s structural integrity, leading to rot, decay, and even mold growth. By encapsulating your crawl space, you prevent moisture from entering, thus protecting your home’s structure from damage over time. This can be especially important for older homes that may have experienced more environmental wear and tear over the years.

Protect Against Pests

Finally, crawl space encapsulation can protect your home from pests such as rodents and insects. These pests can cause damage to insulation and other materials found in your crawl space, leading to even more significant problems over time. By encapsulating your crawl space, you can prevent these pests from entering and causing damage.

Contact GreenFrog waterproofing for more detailed information that can help you

Crawl space encapsulation is an investment that can have significant benefits for your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and value. By sealing off your crawl space and installing a vapor barrier, you can enjoy improved indoor air quality, lower energy bills, and increased structural integrity. If you’re interested in crawl space encapsulation for your home, be sure to contact a professional insulation contractor to learn more about the process and get a quote.

How to stop Basement Flooding

It is essential to keep your basement dry and free from flooding. Basement flooding not only damages your property but can also lead to severe health issues. Therefore, it is necessary to take the necessary steps to prevent and repair basement flooding. We will walk you through the process of drying out your basement and provide you with tips on how to protect your home.

Find out the cause of the flooding

Before fixing the flooding problem, it is crucial to identify the cause. Common causes of basement flooding include heavy rainfall, burst pipes, poor drainage, and sewer backups. If you experience frequent flooding, it may be necessary to consult a professional. A professional can help identify the root cause and recommend the best course of action. For assistance Contact Green Frog Waterproofing for a Free Estimate.

Clean Up the Water

If the flood is minor, it may be possible to clean up the water yourself. However, if the flood is severe, it is advisable to contact a professional. The cleanup process involves removing water and moisture from the basement. It is essential to wear protective gear while cleaning up the water to prevent health issues.

Repair the Damage

Once the basement is dry, assess the damage and repair any structural or cosmetic damage. This includes fixing any cracks in the walls, baseboards, or flooring. It is essential to double-check for any lingering moisture, as this can lead to mold growth. If you notice any signs of mold, contact a professional immediately.

Prevent Future Flooding

After completing the repairs, take steps to prevent future flooding. This may include installing a sump pump, sealing cracks in the foundation, and adding drainage systems around the property. It is also important to keep gutters and downspouts clean and free from debris.

yard drainage helps waterproof your house

Contact a Professional

If you experience frequent flooding, it may be necessary to consult a professional. A professional can help identify the root cause and recommend the best course of action. A professional can also provide you with tips on how to prevent future flooding and protect your home.

Preventing and repairing basement flooding is crucial to keeping your home safe and healthy. If you experience basement flooding, it is essential to identify the root cause, clean up the water, repair damage, prevent future flooding, and contact a professional if necessary. By following these steps, you can protect your home and keep your family safe.

How to Solve Your Yard Drainage Problems

Do you have problems with standing water in your yard after a rain? Is it causing damage to your lawn, garden or driveway? Poor yard drainage is a common issue that many homeowners experience. The good news is that with the right knowledge and tools, you can easily tackle this problem. In this blog, we will explore various ways to solve your yard drainage problems, so you can enjoy a healthy, beautiful yard.

Identify the Problem

The first step in solving a yard drainage issue is to identify where the problem lies. Observe your yard to identify where the water is pooling or flowing. Is there a low spot on your property which receives more water from surrounding areas? You may need a plan to grade the soil for water to flow away from your house. Or perhaps water is coming from a neighbor’s yard, requiring a barrier to be built. Additionally, you may need to evaluate how much water is coming from roof gutters, downspouts, or sump pumps.

Install Drainage Solutions

After identifying the problem areas, it’s time to take action and install drainage solutions. There are several drainage systems that can help solve your yard drainage problems, such as French drains, surface drains, drywells, and catch basins. Installing these systems will help collect water from one area and transfer it to another part of your yard, where the water can be safely absorbed or discharged.

Create a Rain Garden

A rain garden is another effective and environmentally friendly solution to yard drainage problems. This is a landscaped area that is designed to capture and absorb rainwater runoff from your property. The system involves installing a depression bed in your yard, which is filled with soil, rocks, and native plants and shrubs. The garden acts as a sponge, soaking up excess water and filtering polluted stormwater runoff.

Preventative Measures

It is important to take preventative measures to avoid future yard drainage issues. Regularly cleaning gutters and downspouts is an easy step to prevent water overflow from collecting in certain areas. Install gutter extensions for added protection. Make sure that soil is properly graded to allow water to flow away from your home. Planting vegetation according to the type of soil can also help slow down runoff water, besides adding to the beauty and health of your yard.

Seek Professional Assistance

When the problem is more complex or severe, it is important to seek professional assistance. Consulting with a landscape architect or drainage contractor can help identify accurate solutions for your specific issue. Contact Green Frog Waterproofing for a Free Estimate.

Stagnant water in your yard can lead to problems like property damage and health hazards. As a homeowner, it is important to take yard drainage problems seriously and look for appropriate solutions. Whether it is installing drainage solutions or creating a rain garden, there are various steps that can be taken to improve the drainage system of your yard. Prevention is better than cure, so it is important to take preventative measures and regular maintenance for the health and beauty of your lawn and your entire property. A good drainage system is essential for a sustainable and comfortable home environment.

Keep Your Basement Dry – Basement Waterproofing

Basements are often a forgotten part of the home, mainly because they are hidden away from the main living area. However, basements are essential sections of any home as they often serve as storage spaces, functional rooms or houses key utility equipment. Unfortunately, basements are also prone to water damage, mold, mildew, and other water-related issues. Such problems could lead to severe structural damage, lower home value, and health risks to the occupants. This is why it is essential to invest in basement waterproofing.

BENEFITS OF BASEMENT WATERPROOFING

Basement waterproofing is a process of applying materials and techniques to prevent water from entering your basement. One of the main benefits of basement waterproofing is preserving the integrity of your home’s structure. Dampness and mold can quickly weaken the foundation and compromise the structural integrity of the building, leading to costly and risky repairs. Waterproofing your basement also reduces your risk of electrical hazards, as water often poses a danger to electrical systems. Waterproofing also increases the value of your home by creating extra space for living, storage or recreation.

Causes of Basement Water Damage

Understanding the causes of water damage to your basement is essential in preventing it. They may include foundation cracks, poor drainage, leaky roofs, humidity, and inadequate ventilation. Any of these issues can lead to standing water, dampness, and mold growth, causing a damp environment that can compromise the foundation.

Types of Basement Waterproofing Methods

Several basement waterproofing methods can be deployed. Some of these methods include exterior waterproofing, interior waterproofing, sump pump installation, or dehumidification. Exterior basement waterproofing involves excavating the soil around the foundation and filling any foundation cracks before applying a waterproof membrane to the foundation walls. Interior basement waterproofing works by installing a drainage system inside the basement walls that channel water to the sump pump. A sump pump installation prevents water buildup and pumps water away from your home, while dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air, reducing the risk of mold growth.

Benefits of Professional Basement Waterproofing

Hiring a professional basement waterproofing contractor has numerous benefits. For example, a professional will identify the root cause of the problem and offer long-lasting solutions that best suit your home. Professionals have the necessary training and tools to execute the project effectively and efficiently. They provide warranties, which offer peace of mind should any related issues arise after the waterproofing is complete.

Cost of Basement Waterproofing

The cost of basement waterproofing varies based on various factors, including the root cause of the problem, the method used, and the extent of the damage. Waterproofing a basement can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $9,000 depending on these factors. However, fixing the problem before it worsens, saves you money in structural repairs and home damage.

Prevention is always better than cure, and this holds solid in maintaining your home. Avoid the stress and cost of water damage to your basement by investing in basement waterproofing. A waterproofed basement keeps your home dry, structurally sound, and retains its value. Remember to hire professional waterproofing contractors with the necessary training and expertise to get the job done right. Your basement will thank you for it!

The Ultimate Guide to Your Crawl Space

Are you guilty of ignoring your crawl space? If so, you’re not alone. Many homeowners have an “out of sight, out of mind” approach to their crawl space, until, that is, an issue arises. 

Fortunately, being proactive about protecting your crawl space can help prevent serious issues. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know to make sure your crawl space doesn’t become a future source of headaches. 

crawl space encapsulation

Dangers of Ignoring Your Crawl Space

Although easy to ignore, your crawl space plays an important role in your home’s overall structural integrity. If you don’t properly maintain the area, it will start to develop mold and mildew. 

Beyond that, rodents and pests in your crawl space can cause damage to its structural integrity and water runoff also poses a serious threat. If you leave these issues unfixed for too long, you’ll risk damage to your home and need to start budgeting for expensive repairs. 

Common Signs of Issues in Your Crawl Space

So, how do you know if your crawl space needs some TLC? Here at Green Frog Waterproofing, these are some of the most common signs of issues we see in neglected crawl spaces. 

  • Insulation that is wet, damaged, or hanging in the crawl space
  • High levels of humidity
  • Mold and mildew growth
  • Rotting wood
  • Cracks in the home’s foundation
  • Poor air quality and odors in the home
  • Sagging or buckled hardwood floors
  • Pest infestations

Some homeowners also report respiratory issues like allergies and asthma symptoms as a result of crawl space issues.

The Best Solutions for Crawl Space Problems

Now that you know why you should pay attention to your crawl space and what to look for, it’s time to start thinking about solutions. Here are a few ways our team can repair any issues and prevent new ones from developing. 

Encapsulation

When you hire our team for a crawl space encapsulation, we’ll create a barrier designed to keep mold, mildew, and pets out of your crawl space. Encapsulation can also help improve the air quality in your home and lower your energy bills by making your home more energy efficient. 

Waterproofing

Waterproofing your crawl space is another effective solution. If the area already has existing water, we’ll start by removing that and cleaning up the crawl space. From there, we’ll install a waterproofing system that helps to lower humidity levels, improve air quality, and keep your home’s foundation structurally sound.

Insulation

Another option to consider is replacing the insulation in your crawl space. During this process, we’ll remove any old and damaged insulation, seal the crawl space, and then add new insulation to the walls rather than the subfloor. This improves your home’s energy efficiency and keeps mold out of your crawl space. 

Dehumidifier

Finally, if you’ve noticed high levels of humidity in your home, consider installing a crawl space dehumidifier. This system will draw moisture out of the air, preventing the growth of mold and mildew. This not only helps protect your home’s drywall, but it can also help your family literally breathe easier. 

Don’t Ignore Your Crawl Space Any Longer

After reading through this guide, it’s time to give your crawl space the care and attention it deserves. The best option is to call the Green Frog Waterproofing team for assistance. We’d be happy to come out to your home, inspect the current state of your crawl space, and come up with a repair plan to get it back in good shape. 

Contact us today for a free comprehensive evaluation!

Which Pipe is Best?

I need to get my gutter water away from my house. Which kind of pipe should I use?

Great question! There’s a short answer and a long answer.

The Short Answer
There are two main types of pipe used in residential settings to transfer rain water. Corrugated pipe and PVC pipe. Corrugated pipe is the cheapest, easiest, and most common option. But we advise people against using corrugated pipe to transfer water underground. (*Note: This article deals with transferring water with a solid pipe, not constructing a French drain. That’s another topic for another day!)

The Long Answer

Corrugated Pipe: The term “corrugated” applies to any material that has alternating ridges and

4″ Corrugated Pipe
grooves. You’ve probably seen a corrugated metal roof or even corrugated cardboard. But in this case, we are referring to corrugated plastic. The most common corrugated pipe used in residential settings is black with a 4″ diameter. 

Pros of Corrugated Pipe:
Less expensive than other options.
Can be easily bent due to the corrugated nature. It can almost make a 90 degree bend in a tight space without using any additional fittings.
Is light weight and easy to work with.
Readily available at your local home improvement store.

Cons of Corrugated Pipe:

Debris and sediment has a tendency to get caught and accumulate in the ridges, therefore slowing down water flow.
The pipe walls are thin and soft, and they can easily be damaged.
If the pipe is exposed above ground, it is easily damaged by weed trimmers, lawn mowers, foot traffic, and pets.
If the pipe is buried below ground, the pipe wall can be penetrated by roots. Even shrub roots can penetrate the wall in search of water, causing up to 100% blockage.
PVC Pipe: PVC stands for Polyvinyl Chloride, and is commonly used as a more durable and less expensive alternative to traditional materials such as metal or terra cotta. PVC can be produced in many colors, sizes, lengths, and thicknesses. It is often used for sewer and plumbing, but it is also a

4″ PVC Pipe
great product for many yard drainage situations.

Pros of PVC Pipe:
It is much more durable than corrugated. Roots will not penetrate the walls.
The walls of the pipe are smooth so there are no ridges to slow down water flow or to catch debris.
Clean-outs can be installed for system maintenance.
For these reasons, it has a much longer life span than corrugated pipe.


Cons of PVC Pipe:
More expensive to purchase than corrugated pipe.
More labor-intensive to install.
Due to it’s rigid nature, fittings must be used to bend or turn the pipe. Fittings are commonly glued together using a special PVC cement.
Can be confusing to work with due to the various sizes and grades available on the market.

Conclusion
Although PVC pipe is more expensive and more difficult to install, it is well worth the extra investment in the long run. A homeowner that wants to do it right the first time, and not have to come back and fix the problem again in a few years, should strongly consider installing PVC pipe to transfer water away from the home. Visit our website to learn more.

Steps to Waterproof Your House to Prepare for Storms

When a storm rolls through, many of us naively think that it won’t really affect our homes. Unfortunately, that’s not always the reality. Throughout the U.S., 14,000 people find themselves dealing with home water damage every day, with an average insurance claim of over $11,000. 

The good news is that you can help prevent expensive water damage to your home by implementing waterproofing solutions. Keep reading to learn more about how water might affect your home and which waterproofing services might make the most sense for you. 

How to Determine Which Areas of Your Home Are at Risk

Before you waterproof your home, you need to figure out which areas of your home are most vulnerable. To do this, take some time to look around your home before a storm hits, by following these steps. 

Get in the Mindset of Water

The first thing to remember is how water works. It seeks the lowest places around your home, so keep that in mind as you do your inspection. 

Head to the Street

Next, stand at your street and look at your lot and house. Where would the water go based on the elevation of your land and the setup of your home?

Look Up

Now, take a walk around your home and look up. Are your gutters clean and clear? Or are they dumping roof water next to your foundation or into clogged pipes? As a good rule of thumb, water needs to be dumped at least 10 feet away from your home’s foundation. 

Look Down

Continue walking around your home, this time looking down. Do you have positive or negative drainage? According to local building codes, water should positively drain away from your house at 5% grade (dropping down 6 inches at 10 feet away from the foundation). 

Are there any trees within 10 feet of your house? If so, you may need to think about cutting them down, removing the roots, and backfilling the area with tampable dirt. 

Finally, look at your walkway and driveway. Would water drain toward your house in those areas? If so, you may need to install a channel grate or think about repouring the cement.

Waterproof Your Home With These Solutions

After inspecting your home, did you notice areas of concern? Here at Green Frog Waterproofing, we offer a variety of different waterproofing solutions that can help protect your home during even the strongest storms. 

yard drainage helps waterproof your house
Yard Drainage Solution

French Drains

French drain systems help drain ground and surface water away from the foundation of your home, as they’re installed in a sloping manner. 

Gutter Extensions

If you notice standing water in your yard after it rains, gutter extensions may help. They attach to the end of your downspouts and then to a drainage pipe so water moves away from your home. We can extend your downspouts in smooth-bore hard pipe so that they can be maintained every year and will be less likely to crush, clog or undulate.

Yard Drainage

Another option to eliminate standing water is a yard drainage solution. We offer underground drainage, channel drains, isolated drain areas, and more, based on the specifics of your yard.

Grading

If the slope of your yard is leading to water damage concerns, the best option may be to change it. Using our grading machinery, we can change the slope of your yard so it’s less vulnerable. 

Here for All Your Waterproofing Needs

We understand that protecting your home against water damage can be overwhelming. When deciding if you need to waterproof your home, have our team come out to do an inspection and give you a free estimate. 

We’ll come up with a plan based on the specifics of your home so you don’t have to worry the next time it storms. Contact us when you’re ready to get started!

The #1 Enemy of your Crawl Space is …

How can I have mold in my crawl space? I know I don’t have a water problem down there.

This is a common response from homeowners when told that they have a mold problem. Visible standing water is one obvious sign of wet crawl space. But the most common enemy of the crawl space is less visible and less obvious: High Humidity.

High humidity causes significant problems in your crawl space.
90% (pictured here) is extremely high.

If you live in the South and you have a crawl space, you need to be aware of the humidity situation in your crawl space. Humid outdoor air, poor air circulation, and the presence of other water sources often create an environment in which the humidity in the crawl space is higher than the humidity outdoors!

Our rule of thumb is that you want your humidity level to be below 60%. High humidity levels can cause the following:

Elevated Wood Moisture Levels: levels above 16% can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage.
Mold Growth: Mold thrives in humid environments.
Insulation Failure: Insulation absorbs moisture like a sponge. Wet insulation decreases in R value and eventually becomes so weighted down with excess water that it falls to the floor.
Pest Activity: Like mold, rodents and insects enjoy dark, humid environments.

High humidity leads to high wood moisture levels.
This wood is at 17% and has visible fungal growth.
Poor Indoor Air Quality: 40%-50% of the air you breathe on your first floor originates in your crawl space.
How can I have mold in my crawl space? I know I don’t have a water problem down there. 

This is a common response from homeowners when told that they have a mold problem. Visible standing water is one obvious sign of wet crawl space. But the most common enemy of the crawl space is less visible and less obvious: High Humidity. 

If you live in the South and you have a crawl space, you need to be aware of the humidity situation in your crawl space. Humid outdoor air, poor air circulation, and the presence of other water sources often create an environment in which the humidity in the crawl space is higher than the humidity outdoors!

Our rule of thumb is that you want your humidity level to be below 60%. High humidity levels can cause the following:

  • Elevated Wood Moisture Levels: levels above 16% can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage.
  • Mold Growth: Mold thrives in humid environments.
  • Insulation Failure: Insulation absorbs moisture like a sponge. Wet insulation decreases in R value and eventually becomes so weighted down with excess water that it falls to the floor.
  • Pest Activity: Like mold, rodents and insects enjoy dark, humid environments.
  • Poor Indoor Air Quality: 40%-50% of the air you breathe on your first floor originates in your crawl space.
  • Musty Smells: If you aren’t sure what that smell is, there’s a good chance it is coming from your crawl space.
The good news is that humidity in your crawl space can be controlled! Visit our website to learn more about solution options or to schedule a free inspection from our experts.

If you aren’t sure what that smell is, there’s a good chance it is coming from your crawl space.
The good news is that humidity in your crawl space can be controlled! Visit our website to learn more about solution options or to schedule a free inspection from our experts.

Myers Park’s Trusted Choice for Waterproofing Solutions

When homeowners in Myers Park notice issues with poor drainage, leaks, musty smells, or other water issues, they know that Green Frog Waterproofing is the name to call for help. We’re proud to be your local choice for waterproofing solutions and moisture control. 

Myers Park Waterproofing Services 

If left alone, water issues can cause serious damage to your home. Our team offers an extensive list of moisture control solutions in Myers Park and surrounding areas. 

Sealed Crawl Spaces

Is your Myers Park crawl space damp or moldy? Our team can seal or encapsulate the area to keep moisture out and improve your home’s air quality. 

Basement Waterproofing

Is noticing a musty smell in your basement the norm? This can lead to mold and attract pests into your Myers Park home. Our basement waterproofing services can eliminate the issue.

French Drains

If you’re worried about water sitting near your home’s foundation, consider installing a French drain, which directs water away from the problem area.

Gutter Extensions

The next time it rains, pay attention to your landscaping. If you notice large standing puddles, you might need gutter extensions to help prevent damage to your basement, crawl space, or foundation. 

Vapor Barriers

When was the last time you thought about the vapor barrier in your Myers Park crawl space? If it’s been a while, it could be torn or even missing. In that case, don’t hesitate to install a new system to help prevent future damage.

Dehumidifiers /  Sump Pumps

Though you might not realize it, humidity and moisture in your crawl space can make their way into your home, leading to serious issues. Installing a dehumidifier can help draw that excess moisture out of the air. We also offer sump pump repair services and can install a battery-operated backup for extra protection. 

Yard Drainage

After a day of heavy rain throughout Myers Park, you might find your yard full of standing water. We offer a number of yard drainage solutions to help eliminate the issues and prevent damage to your foundation. 

Grading

Looking to change your home’s grading? Our team of experts has the equipment needed to perform a variety of different grading techniques to transform your yard.

Insulation

Proper insulation can help keep your home at a more comfortable temperature, regardless of what the weather is like outside. If your insulation is dirty, moldy, or missing, let our team take care of it. 

Foundation / Floor Joist Repair

Damage to your foundation or floor joist system is something you need to take seriously. Our team can help you identify issues and come up with a repair solution to help prevent more expensive problems in the future. 

Mold Testing and Remediation

If left alone, mold growth can affect your family’s health, leading to respiratory issues. At the first sight of mold, contact our remediation team. We’ll not only remove the mold, but we’ll address the root cause of it to prevent more from growing. 

Why Choose Green Frog Waterproofing?

Water damage poses one of the most serious threats to your home. Here at Green Frog Waterproofing, we understand that your home is an asset and we’ll do everything in our power to help you protect it from damage. 

Over the years, we’ve designed more than 700 waterproofing solutions for our customers in Myers Park and surrounding areas and we’d be honored to earn your trust and work on your home next. 

Your Choice for Waterproofing Solutions in Myers Park

If you’re worried you have a water issue in your yard, basement, or crawl space, don’t hesitate to contact the Green Frog Waterproofing team. We proudly offer a free comprehensive evaluation to homeowners in Myers Park so we can evaluate the problem and develop a solution that fits your needs and your budget. Contact us today!

Sump Pump Installation

When installed improperly a sump pump can be a source of humidity, foul odors, and mold rather than a solution. Here are three ways that this sump pump is installed improperly.

  1. No lid. A proper sump basin has a lid which serves multiple purposes. 1) A lid prevents the basin water from evaporating back into your crawl space and eventually being absorbed by your insulation and floor joist. 2) A lid helps ensure a clean environment for the sump pump. Notice the dirtiness of the water and the inside of the green basin. 3) A lid is also a safety mechanism to prevent Barky or Meow from falling in. Sadly, while performing a routine inspection, one of our technicians found a customer’s puppy that had been missing for months. 
  2. Five-gallon bucket, rather than a proper sump pump basin. There are several models that will get the job done, but the typical basin is about twice the depth and four times the volume of this five-gallon bucket.
  3. No holes to allow ground water to enter basin. In a crawl space environment it is most effective to drill holes around the basin to allow ground water to enter the basin and then be pumped out. The only water entering this basin is being pumped through tubes (black 1″ tube above) from a dehumidifier. Notice the ground surrounding this sump basin is wet and muddy because the ground water has no way of entering the basin.
Visit our website to learn more about sump pumps, crawl space waterproofing, and basement waterproofing. Or contact us to schedule a free inspection of your home.