The Challenge: Addressing Crawl Space Issues to Preserve Structural Integrity of a Historic Site
The historic Manassas Battlefield Park, is a nationally recognized Civil War site and symbol of resilience. Its aging structure faced significant crawl space challenges, threatening stability and preservation.
Certified by the Head of Historic Preservation, this project demanded careful planning to meet strict standards. The property owners trusted LUX Foundation Solutions to handle the complex restoration.
After a detailed inspection, the LUX team identified several critical issues requiring immediate attention:
- Aging Crawl Space Wooden Components
- Wooden beams had weakened over time, becoming prone to sagging floors and increasing the risk of instability above.
- Persistent Moisture Problems
- Without encapsulation or a vapor barrier, the crawl space was damp and prone to mold, wood rot, and rust on metal components.
- Outdated Sump Pump System
- The old sump pump was ineffective at managing water intrusion, leaving standing water during heavy rainfall.
- No Perimeter Drainage System
- Water pooling in the crawl space posed a risk to the foundation’s stability.
- Deteriorating Crawl Space Supports
- Four corroded steel supports, critical for weight distribution, were no longer reliable and required replacement.
- Unstable Rock Support
- Two supports made of rock used to support the chimney lacked retro footings, creating a structural hazard.
- Unprotected Walls and Dirt Floors
- The dirt crawl space lacked insulation and was exposed, contributing to energy inefficiency and an unstable surface.
Given the age of the building and the severity of the issues, the LUX team developed a detailed crawl space repair plan that ensured the restoration preserved the site’s historical value while protecting its structural integrity.
The Solution: Comprehensive Structural Crawlspace Repair and Waterproofing
To address both moisture and structural concerns while preserving the site’s historical character, LUX Foundation Solutions implemented the following solutions:
Crawlspace Encapsulation and Waterproofing
Step 1: Perimeter Drainage System
As part of the comprehensive waterproofing solution, a 125-foot CSP drainage system was installed around the perimeter of the crawl space. This system is designed to effectively redirect water away from the foundation, preventing moisture accumulation.
Step 2: Triple Sump Pump System
Replaced the outdated system with a triple sump pump featuring auxiliary and battery backups, ensuring effective water management.
Step 3: Crawl Space Drainage Matting Installation
Installed durable crawl space drainage matting consists of high-density, dimpled sheets that are 60 mils thick across the crawl space floor to create a moisture-resistant barrier and protect the foundation from groundwater intrusion.
Step 4: Wall Insulation Installation
Added high-quality wall rigid foam insulation along the crawl space walls to regulate temperatures, improve energy efficiency, and prevent heat loss.
Step 5: Vapor Barrier Installation
Added a high-quality premium 12-mil multi-ply laminate vapor barrier to block moisture intrusion and protect structural components from damp conditions.
Crawl Space Structural Reinforcement
Step 6: Adjustable Steel Support Posts
Replaced four corroded steel supports with adjustable crawl space support posts set in concrete footings to restore structural stability.
Step 7: Retro Footings and Parging Coating
Added retro footings using rebar reinforcement and a high-strength concrete blend around two undermined supports and one chimney to restore stability. These new footings were designed to encase the existing stone supports and extend below grade, enhancing load-bearing capacity and long-term performance.
Also, a protective parging coating was applied to strengthen the footings further, providing resistance to wear and environmental damage.
The Outcome: A Stabilized and Protected Historical Landmark
The crawl space restoration at the historic Manassas Battlefield was a success, delivering the following results:
- Improved Structural Stability: Reinforced supports and retro footings provide long-term reliability for the building’s foundation.
- Moisture Protection: Encapsulation, a modern drainage system, and a triple sump pump prevent mold growth and damage.
- Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Insulation upgrades and a vapor barrier reduce energy costs and improve indoor comfort.
This comprehensive crawl space restoration ensures the Manassas Battlefield remains stable and protected while honoring its historical significance.
Why Choose LUX Foundation Solutions?
When restoring a property as unique and valuable as the Manassas National Battlefield Park, experience and expertise are essential. At LUX Foundation Solutions, we bring nearly 50 years of combined experience in crawl space repair, foundation stabilization, and waterproofing.
Our team has a proven record of providing effective solutions tailored to each project’s specific needs. Whether it’s a historic building or a modern home, we prioritize quality, durability, and customer satisfaction.
Contact us today at 540-508-8587 for your free estimate and discover why homeowners across Northern Virginia, Shenandoah Valley, North Central Virginia, West Virginia, and surrounding areas trust LUX Foundation Solutions for reliable and professional crawl space repair services.
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