Case Study: Protecting a Townhouse Crawl Space for a Healthier Home in Colorado Springs, CO

A homeowner in Colorado Springs was concerned about moisture, mold, and poor air quality coming from their crawl space.
To solve the problem, Groundworks installed a complete encapsulation system, including a drainage trench, sump pump, vapor barrier, and dehumidifier—all in just one day.
The result was a clean, dry, energy-efficient crawl space that improved the overall health and comfort of the home.
The Challenge
- Neighbor’s water heater leaked, flooding the crawl space of a Colorado Springs townhouse.
- The homeowner was concerned about mold and air quality risks.
- She needed a long-term solution to protect her health.
The Solution
- Groundworks cleaned the crawl space, removing contaminants.
- Drainage matting was installed beneath the encapsulation.
- Foam board insulation was applied.
- A thick vapor barrier was installed.
The Impact
- The homeowner enjoys a healthier, drier home with significantly improved indoor air quality.
- Crawl space encapsulation has helped lower energy bills and increased overall home efficiency.
- Most importantly, she has peace of mind knowing her crawl space is protected.
Before Crawl Space Repair:

Moisture in the Crawl Space
As you can see in the image, the crawl space had an ineffective vapor barrier loosely sitting on the floor. There was no protection from moisture along the walls. Since this vapor barrier wasn’t providing much defense, there was a high amount of moisture in the crawl space—creating a damp and uncomfortable area.

Crawl Space Drainage Problem
This image makes it clear that the crawl space had a lack of drainage. As a result, it was easy for groundwater to collect under the dirt floor of the crawl space (especially after a storm or neighboring leak), contributing to the damp conditions beneath the home.
After Crawl Space Repair:

Crawl Space Drainage
First and foremost, our installation crew lined the crawl space with effective drainage. In the image, you can see the drainage matting in the crawl space. This is where groundwater most often gets into the crawl space, so adding drainage here helps control the flow of water away from the foundation.

Foam Board Insulation
Along the perimeter walls, we installed rigid foam insulation to create a thermal break. This step helps prevent outdoor temperatures and moisture from affecting the crawl space, improving overall energy efficiency and comfort inside the home.

Vapor Barrier
Once the drainage and insulation were in place, our team installed a durable 20-mil vapor barrier across both the floor and walls. This creates a fully sealed environment that keeps out moisture, prevents mold, and protects the structural integrity of the home. The project was completed in just one day with minimal disruption.
Other Reviews for Our Crawl Space Repair Near You
Need Crawl Space Repair for Your Home?

Noticing musty odors, high humidity, or cold, uneven floors? The issue may be hiding in your crawl space.
At Groundworks, we specialize in solving crawl space problems that threaten your home’s health and comfort. From moisture and mold to pests and structural concerns, our proven repair and encapsulation solutions stop the damage at its source.
Schedule your free crawl space inspection today, and let our local experts help you protect what matters most—starting from the ground up.
Related Resources
Crawl Space Repair FAQs
A vapor barrier is a plastic liner laid on the crawl space floor to block ground moisture, while encapsulation is a comprehensive system that completely seals the entire crawl space, including walls, floors, and open vents. Encapsulation provides superior moisture control and typically includes additional components like dehumidifiers and drainage systems.
While some homeowners may choose to install insulation themselves, it’s often best to hire a professional to ensure proper installation and address any underlying issues.
Encapsulation seals the space from external elements, reducing the need for frequent repairs and keeping the crawl space dry and clean.


