Basement Waterproofing Case Studies: Protecting the Cabin from Mold in Keshena, WI

Challenge

The new cabin by the lake in Keshena is a retirement home for Mr. and Mrs. F. Due to health concerns, they called me out to look at the 4’ crawlspace under their home. Ventilated dirt crawlspaces create conditions perfect for mold and mildew growth as well as insect access, wood rot, and heat loss. They were clear about their goal – stop any future mold.

Solution

After completing a thorough inspection of the damp and dirty space under their cabin, I put together a solution to permanently seal off the space from both the earth and exterior air. Using our patented combination of drain mat and Clean Space encapsulation material, we sealed up the floor. To increase the warmth of the home, we put our reflective Silverglo insulation on the walls and 2” of spray foam in the rim joists. Next, we installed vent covers to keep out damp and cold outside air. Finally, the installation of an Aprilaire 1830 dehumidification system completed the project, keeping the air under the cabin consistently dry with very little maintenance and an Energy Star rating.

Mr. and Mrs. F. are now free to enjoy their new cabin on the lake without fear of mold from below. And as a bonus, they will be saving 15-25% in energy costs each year now that the crawlspace is encapsulated. That will make their days on the lake all that more peaceful.