Solving Crawl Space Moisture and Structural Issues: How We Helped a Pickwick Real Estate Agent

Solving Crawl Space Moisture and Structural Issues: How We Helped a Pickwick Real Estate Agent

If you’ve ever walked into your home and noticed a persistent, musty smell, you know how frustrating and concerning it can be. Moisture problems in a crawl space don’t just create unpleasant odors—they can also lead to structural damage, mold growth, and even impact indoor air quality. That’s exactly what Derrick, a real estate agent in Iuka and the Pickwick area, was facing in his own home.

The Problem: Persistent Moisture and Structural Weakness

Derrick purchased his home three years ago and has been making steady improvements. However, one issue remained unresolved—moisture under the house. He suspected it was causing the lingering odors inside, and he worried about potential damage to the lumber beneath his home. Given his experience in real estate, Derrick knew how important a solid foundation was, and he wasn’t willing to settle for a quick fix.

What We Found During the Inspection:

• The original part of the home (built in the 1960s) had a dirt crawl space with thin plastic laid on the ground.
• A sump pump was present but not properly managing moisture.
• The ground beneath the home had a steep slope, leading to poor drainage.
• Plumbing and ductwork ran through the crawl space, making it even more critical to control humidity.
• One section of the crawl space was inaccessible, creating challenges for full moisture control.
• The home had some structural concerns—one section was over spanned, causing uneven doorways.

Derrick wanted a permanent solution to keep moisture levels under control and reinforce the structure of his home.

The Solution: Crawl Space Encapsulation & SmartJacks™ Installation

To tackle both the moisture and structural concerns, we designed a two-part solution:

1. Full Crawl Space Encapsulation

Encapsulation is the best way to eliminate excess moisture and prevent future issues like wood rot or mold. We:
✅ Installed a high-quality vapor barrier across the dirt crawl space to lock out ground moisture.
✅ Closed off the gaps above the block wall between the crawl space and storage room for a complete seal.
✅ Included the narrow corridor between block walls in the encapsulation for full protection.

With no exterior vents, the encapsulation would effectively regulate humidity, eliminating the musty odors Derrick was experiencing.

2. SmartJacks™ Installation for Structural Support

To correct the over spanned joists that were causing uneven doorways, we installed six SmartJacks™ along a 30-foot section beneath the bedrooms. These high-capacity jacks provide adjustable support to prevent future sagging and restore proper alignment to the floor system.

The Outcome: A Stronger, Drier Home

Derrick’s home now has a fully encapsulated crawl space that keeps moisture in check and prevents odors. The SmartJacks™ system reinforces the floor structure, ensuring long-term stability. These upgrades not only improve his home’s comfort but also increase its value—a crucial factor for a real estate professional like Derrick.

Is Your Crawl Space Causing Issues? Let’s Fix It!

If you’re dealing with moisture problems, musty odors, or sagging floors, don’t wait until it becomes a bigger issue. Our team specializes in crawl space encapsulation and foundation reinforcement to protect your home for years to come.

📞 Call us today to schedule an inspection!
📩 Or contact us online to get started.

A dry, solid foundation starts here—let’s make your home safer and more comfortable today!