Restoring Structural Integrity: Crawl Space Repair in McLean, VA
Challenge
A homeowner in McLean, VA, was facing a alarming issue in their single-story home: the floors on the main level had become noticeably unlevel, sagging and sinking in several areas. This instability was not only affecting the comfort and usability of the living space but raised significant concerns about the home's long-term safety. After scheduling an inspection with our team, the root cause became clear. Our System Design Specialist discovered that high moisture levels in the crawl space had led to severe wood rot in several floor joists. The compromised wooden supports could no longer bear the weight of the home, causing the floors to sink. The homeowner needed a comprehensive solution that would repair the structural damage, level the floors, and permanently address the moisture issue to prevent future rot.
Solution
To restore the home's stability and protect it for the future, NV Waterproofing and Foundation Repair designed a dual-focused solution addressing both the structural failure and the environmental cause. First, our production team removed the rotten joists and replaced them with durable steel beams. We then installed SmartJack® support posts beneath the beams. These adjustable steel piers allowed us to lift the floors back to a level position and provide robust, permanent support for the home's main level.
Once the structure was stabilized, we turned our attention to the crawl space environment. We installed a complete encapsulation system to control the moisture levels. This included laying down drainage matting to manage water flow, installing SilverGlo™ wall insulation to improve energy efficiency, and sealing the entire space with our heavy-duty CleanSpace® vapor barrier. This combination effectively isolated the home from earth moisture. The homeowner was delighted with the results—solid, balanced floors and a dry, healthy crawl space that ensured the longevity of their home.