Common Reasons for Rain or Ground Water in Your Crawl Space

Poor Drainage

Inadequate grading around the perimeter of your home can lead to water pooling near the foundation, increasing the risk of water seepage into the crawl space.

Leaking Gutters or Downspouts

Damaged or clogged gutters and downspouts can cause rainwater to overflow and collect near the foundation, ultimately finding its way into the crawl space.

Hydrostatic Pressure

During heavy rainfall or periods of high groundwater levels, hydrostatic pressure can build up around the foundation, forcing water through cracks or gaps and into the crawl space.

High Water Table

In areas with a high water table, the natural level of groundwater may rise close to or above the level of the crawl space, increasing the likelihood of water entering the space through the ground or foundation walls.

The Hazards of Standing Water in Your Crawl Space

Mold Growth

Standing water creates a damp environment ideal for mold growth. Mold not only damages building materials but also releases spores that can cause respiratory issues and allergies.

Structural Damage

Prolonged exposure to moisture weakens wooden supports and can lead to structural damage in your home's foundation, floors, and walls.

Wood-Destroying Organism Infestation

Standing water in your crawl space attracts wood-destroying organisms such as termites, carpenter ants, and wood-boring beetles, which thrive in moist environments. These pests can cause significant structural damage to your home by feeding on wooden components.

Odors and Indoor Air Quality

Stagnant water emits foul odors and contributes to poor indoor air quality, leading to discomfort and potential health problems for occupants.

Electrical Hazards

If water comes into contact with electrical wiring or appliances in the crawl space, it poses a risk of electrical shock and fire.

Increased Energy Costs

Moisture in the crawl space can lead to higher humidity levels throughout your home, making it more challenging and expensive to regulate indoor temperatures.

Our Streamlined Process for Crawl Space Drainage

French Drain Installation

  • We excavate a trench along the inner foundation wall.
  • Drain rock and a perforated pipe are laid in the trench to facilitate drainage.

Catch Basin Installation

  • A hole is dug to accommodate the basin.
  • We install the basin, lid, and filtration system to effectively capture and filter water.

Sump Pump Setup

  • Our team installs the sump pump and check valve to ensure efficient water removal.
  • Additionally, we incorporate a flood alarm system for added security.

*Additional option includes a dual sump pump setup, featuring a secondary pump and battery for backup.

Discharge Management

  • Using a PVC pipe, we direct water away from the crawl space.
  • Discharge destinations include directing water towards the street, slope, or existing drain.

Our Warranty and Guarantee

We ensure a dry crawl space. no standing water – guaranteed. If water is detected within the warranty period, we promptly return to address the issue and perform any necessary additional work.

Furthermore, we provide emergency response services in the event of a system failure leading to a flood, with our team arriving within hours.

For added security, we install alarm system along with our sump pump. This alarm will alert you to any system failure, allowing you to inform us immediately. Our dedicated team is ready to handle it swiftly and efficiently. Your peace of mind is our priority.

Annual Maintenance

As part of our Annual Maintenance Program, we conduct a thorough yearly visit to ensure your crawl space remains water-free. Our team checks for any puddling, inspects, and tests the system, cleans the basin and the pump, and ensures its functionality for the upcoming year.

*Our annual visit ensures your 10-year warranty stays active, with a set fee of $129.

Electrical Requirements

Hire a certified electrician to Install a dual GFCI outlet directly above the sump pump for a seamless, cord-free connection. It is strongly advised to designate a dedicated circuit for this outlet to prevent overload and power break.

If electrical setup has not been completed prior to installation, we will temporarily connect the sump pump with extension cord to an available existing outlet.

NW CRAWL SPACE
TESTIMONIALS

Northwest Crawl Space Services is family-owned right here in the Pacific Northwest. With years of experience, we’re licensed and bonded and always prioritize our customer’s satisfaction. Please read some of our 5-star reviews from our happy customers.

I got the names of two contractors from PSE to get estimates for crawl space work. Lior from NW Crawl Space Services came out and gave me a quote the day he was here on exactly what was needed. They would be replacing all insulation and the vapor barrier, and providing a complete exclusion of entry to my crawlspace by animals. He was able to schedule me in very quickly. Very professional!! (NOTE: The other contractor was too busy the day he came out to provide an estimate. He said he would work on it the next week. That was more than a month ago and I never heard back from him.)

Lior’s crew was on time, quick, polite and efficient. They did a great job cleaning out the crawlspace, adding new insulation and vapor barrier, and sealing rodent points of entry. The crew was in and out in one day, plus they left no mess for me to clean up. Lior came back and inspected the work, and he (or his team) will re-inspect every three months for a year to ensure there are no more animals and the work is still good.

I would highly recommend NW Crawl Space Services for your crawl space and attic needs. I will definitely be using them in the future.
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Frequently asked questions

Is a crawl space drainage system necessary if there is only a small amount of water present?

Even small amounts of water in the crawl space can lead to moisture issues, mold growth, and structural damage over time. Installing a drainage system can help prevent these problems and maintain a dry and healthy crawl space environment. It is important to address any water intrusion promptly to avoid potential long-term consequences.

Why have I never had water in my crawl space before, but suddenly experienced it this year?

Several factors could contribute to this sudden occurrence. It is possible that changes in weather patterns, such as heavy rainfall or melting snow, have led to increased water infiltration. Additionally, shifts in the water table level, which can vary from year to year, may result in water entering your crawl space. Aging drainage systems or shifts in the soil around your home’s foundation could also play a role.

How long does it typically take to install crawl space drainage systems for an average-sized house?

The installation time for crawl space drainage systems varies based on factors like the size of the crawl space and the complexity of the drainage system. For an average-sized house, installation usually takes between 1 to 2 days. Our team can provide a more precise estimate after evaluating your specific requirements.

How do I know if my crawl space needs drainage solutions?

Signs such as musty odors, visible moisture, or water damage in the crawl space indicate a need for drainage solutions. Regular inspections can also help identify potential issues early.

Can I install crawl space drainage systems myself, or should I hire a professional?

While DIY installation may seem feasible, it is best to hire a professional for optimal results. Our team has the expertise and equipment to ensure proper installation and long-term effectiveness of the drainage system.

Why is crawl space drainage important?

Crawl space drainage is crucial for preventing water accumulation, which can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and other costly issues in your home.

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