Crawlspace Insulation & Basement Waterproofing in Arcola, PA

The challenge we faced was working in an old farm home. To address this, we installed a Santa-Fe Advance2 system.

The major challenge we faced was removing concrete for the drainage system in a really tight crawl space.

To address this, 15-year veteran Steve C. determined that because of the large volume of water in the crawl space, the best solution would be to install a Grate-Drain drainage system in the crawl space along with a full FinishShield moisture vapor barrier. Now, with the crawl space completely dry, the homeowners have another 500 square feet of dry usable space for storage.

The job was performed by Lead Foreman Khian C. and crew over the course of two days.

The challenges we faced were that the basement was in the middle of being finished, so we had to work around the finished materials that were already installed. Also, the floor was thick, which made the jackhammering take a little longer.

To address this, Project Manager Steve C. went out and met with Vinny’s wife and gave her multiple options on how they could protect their investment. She mentioned to Steve that she had just replaced her sump pump, so that was fine, and that they only needed an efficient drainage system on two walls. Based on that, we installed a Grate-Drain drainage system on two walls that drains into their existing sump pump, along with one window well drain. Because they were in the middle of finishing the basement, we were also able to get the job installed as soon as possible. Now they have a lifetime warranty on groundwater seepage and can finish the rest of the basement.

Inspection Findings

Project Manager Ken McKnight  performed a full inspection of the basement and crawlspace. His findings included:

• High moisture levels throughout the basement
• Damp, humid air in the crawlspace
• Efflorescence and minor wall deterioration in the basement
• Musty odors being drawn into the living space above

These symptoms indicated that both the basement and crawlspace were contributing to ongoing moisture problems throughout the home.

Recommended Solution

Inspection Findings

During a full evaluation, the project manager noted:

• Water trapped inside the hollow cores of the CMU block walls
• Signs of moisture seepage along the perimeter of the basement
• An outdated or insufficient drainage system
• A damp, unconditioned, debris-filled crawlspace
• Elevated humidity levels affecting the home above

Recommended Basement Solution

To properly manage water and protect the foundation, we recommended:

1. Full Basement Drainage System

A complete interior drainage system installed along the basement perimeter to capture water before it enters the living space.

2. Sump Pump Installation

A high-capacity sump pump to efficiently discharge all collected water away from the home.

3. Weep Holes in CMU Block Walls

Weep holes drilled at the base of the block walls to relieve hydrostatic pressure and allow trapped water inside the block cores to drain directly into the new system.

These components work together to keep the basement dry, stable, and protected against future water intrusion.

Recommended Crawlspace Solution

To resolve moisture and air-quality issues in the crawlspace, we proposed a full remediation:

1. Full Clean-Out

Removal of old insulation, debris, and any organic material that could retain moisture or harbor mold.

2. Full Encapsulation

Installation of a durable vapor barrier on the floor and walls to isolate the crawlspace from the damp ground and outside air.

3. Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam applied to rim joists and selected surfaces to improve energy efficiency, seal air leaks, and prevent humid air from entering.

Results

• Basement remains dry even during heavy rain
• CMU block walls no longer hold or release trapped water
• Crawlspace is clean, sealed, and conditioned
• Home’s humidity levels have stabilized
• Energy efficiency improved due to spray foam insulation
• Overall air quality in the living space significantly improved

By combining a full basement drainage system with weep holes and a high-performance sump pump, followed by a complete crawlspace encapsulation and spray foam upgrade, Jamison Basement Waterproofing delivered a long-term, whole-home moisture solution that protects the structure from the ground up.