Case Study: Basement Encapsulation Creates a Dry, Usable Space in Karns City, PA

Leaking Basement

Homes built 100 years ago tend to have unique quirks and repair challenges. Homeowners in Karns City adored their old house built in 1919, but damage was becoming a recurring problem. Their full basement resembled a crawl space in that it had a dirt floor.

The owners used this area for storage, but recurring water intrusion, including water rising two feet during heavy rain, damaged belongings, the water heater, and the furnace. Concerned with mold and continued leaks, the owners wanted to fix the problem permanently.

Waterproofing and Encapsulation

After a thorough evaluation of the dirt basement, a Groundworks inspector recommended several waterproofing solutions. While Groundworks companies offer waterproofing systems specific to basement and crawl space environments, the beauty of these services is that they can be customized to fit exactly what each home needs.

This basement encapsulation project called for interior crawl space drainage designed for dirt floors, drainage matting, a sump pump, and a vapor barrier that covered the walls and floor. Once this project was completed, concrete could then be poured over the encapsulation to create a slab floor and a usable basement.

Safe Basement Storage

The homeowners were impressed with the crew’s professionalism and efficiency, as the project was completed in two days. With the encapsulation and drainage system in place, the homeowners felt confident their basement would remain protected from future water intrusion. The solution provided lasting peace of mind, ensuring their equipment and stored belongings would stay dry and well-preserved for years ahead.