Victorian Home Crawl Space Repair in Mauricetown, NJ
Challenge
The homeowner’s historic Victorian property, originally built in the late 1700s, had unique challenges that required a careful, specialized approach. The home’s foundation rested on cornerstones, a nontraditional method of support that lacked the structural integrity of a modern foundation. This design presented two primary issues:
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Structural Instability: The absence of a traditional foundation made the property susceptible to settling and shifting, especially around the newly added colonial-style kitchen. The homeowner was concerned that the lack of proper support could lead to long-term damage, undermining the structural soundness of the house.
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Temperature Control: The kitchen, added on as part of a colonial extension, was prone to extreme temperatures. During winter, it became uncomfortably cold. The lack of insulation and moisture control in the crawl space beneath the kitchen exacerbated these temperatures, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable living environment.
Given the historical significance of the property, the homeowner was particularly keen on preserving the original character of the home. This required a solution that would address both the structural and temperature-related issues while respecting the home's aesthetic and historical integrity.
Solution
After a thorough assessment of the property, Quality 1st Basement Systems designed a comprehensive, non-invasive solution that would restore the home's structural integrity and improve its temperature control. The solution involved three main products: CleanSpace, SilverGlo, and SmartJacks, each carefully selected to address specific issues without compromising the home’s historic charm.
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CleanSpace Encapsulation System: To combat moisture and air infiltration under the kitchen, we installed the CleanSpace crawl space encapsulation system. This heavy-duty vapor barrier effectively sealed off the crawl space, preventing outside moisture, cold air in winter, and hot air in summer from entering the home. By creating a controlled, moisture-free environment, CleanSpace immediately improved the comfort level within the kitchen and other areas of the house.
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SilverGlo Insulation Panels: To further enhance temperature control, we added SilverGlo insulation panels to the crawl space walls. These high-performance panels reflect heat back into the space during the colder months and keep it cooler during the summer. The SilverGlo insulation acted as a thermal barrier, stabilizing the temperature within the crawl space and reducing the workload of the home’s HVAC system.
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SmartJack Support Jacks: To restore the structural integrity of the house, especially around the colonial-style kitchen, we strategically installed SmartJack support jacks. These adjustable, steel support beams were placed to lift and stabilize the home, providing additional support where it was most needed. The SmartJack system was designed to halt any further settling or shifting, effectively stabilizing the building’s foundation and ensuring its long-term durability.
In the end, the homeowner was able to enjoy a safer, more comfortable living space while preserving the unique historical character of their Victorian home.
