The Basement Doctor of Central Kentucky Before & After Photos

One of the most frustrating issues we encounter is the continued use of outdated and ineffective crawl space construction methods—often a result of outdated building codes and insufficient regulation. The crawl space is a critical component of any home’s structure and overall health, yet despite decades of research and proven advancements, many homes are still being built with vented, dirt-floored, and fiberglass-insulated crawl spaces that simply do not stand the test of time. Such was the case for a homeowner in Lexington, KY, whose relatively new home was already showing signs of serious crawl space deterioration. When they reached out to us, we explained the wealth of research supporting modern, closed crawl space systems and the long-term value they provide. After reviewing their options, the homeowner decided to move forward with a professional crawl space repair. We began work the following week, and upon completion, their home was equipped with a properly treated crawl space designed to improve energy efficiency, reduce moisture issues, and significantly extend the life of the home.

The crawl space of this Lexington, KY home was completely transformed with a full CleanSpace encapsulation. We sealed the space from the open earth, closed all vents, and installed a SaniDry dehumidifier to keep the area conditioned and moisture-free. This process not only removed musty odors and reduced dust mites but will also help protect the home’s HVAC ducts for years to come.

This crawl space had pools of water sitting at the bottom every time it rained. These pools of water were causing mold and moisture issues, which were tearing away at the insulation and wooden frames. In order to fix this, we installed a drainage system made of perforated pipes backfilled with gravel along the interior perimeter of the crawl space. These drains were hooked up to a SmartSump sump pump. We then covered the whole crawl space in Clean Space liner, which is made of non organic material. Thus way mold can never grow on it. We then installed a SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier, which is able to eliminate air moisture issues. We also installed a Turtl crawl space entry door, which is not shown in the pictures. 

The crawl space of this Somerset, KY home went from damp and musty to clean and dry. Before, moisture and humidity were constant problems, leaving behind odors and uncomfortable air inside the home. We installed drainage matting to manage groundwater, lined the entire area with CleanSpace to seal it from the earth, and added a SaniDry dehumidifier to control humidity year-round. After the transformation, the space is bright, dry, and fully protected—helping the homeowners enjoy healthier air and greater comfort throughout their home.

This before and after highlights why traditional vented crawl spaces often fall short. Many homes are built with wall vents, a thin plastic sheet over the gravel, and fiberglass insulation between the joists—methods that meet code but don’t always address real moisture concerns. In most climates, vented crawl spaces allow humidity to build up, leading to musty air and long-term damage. By encapsulating the space, as shown here, we’re able to control moisture, improve air quality, and protect the home’s structure for years to come. The silver insulation panels along the walls also replace ceiling fiberglass, creating a cleaner, more efficient solution.