Your crawl space might be the most overlooked yet critically important area of your home. In this sixth installment of the Crawl Space Repair Challenge, Michael Church tackles the crucial topic of air sealing—a process that dramatically improves energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and structural integrity.

The Department of Energy confirms what Michael has seen firsthand: unsealed crawl spaces contribute significantly to moisture problems affecting both your health and home structure. When air freely moves between your crawl space and living areas, it brings along unwanted moisture, allergens, and even radon. Through detailed demonstrations, Michael walks you through the why and how of comprehensive air sealing, identifying 19 different areas throughout your home requiring attention.

From foundation walls to subfloors and ductwork, every potential air leak creates problems. Michael reveals that an astonishing 25% of conditioned air moving through unsealed duct systems simply leaks away—wasted energy you're paying for each month. Using professional-grade materials like mastic spray, foam sealants, and specially formulated concrete crack repair kits (originally developed for NASA), he demonstrates exactly how to create an effective air barrier. The techniques shared work equally well in crawl spaces, basements, and even more visible areas of your home.

Whether you're a dedicated DIY enthusiast or simply want to understand what professionals should be doing in your crawl space, this episode delivers actionable advice to transform your home's forgotten foundation into a properly sealed, energy-efficient space. Ready to stop wasting energy and improve your home's air quality? Watch now, then grab your caulk gun and join the thousands who've already completed the Crawl Space Repair Challenge!

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Check out Michael's book, "Crawl Space Repair Myths-Busted" now available on Amazon!

Schedule a consultation: https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/extras

Need help: https://crawlspaceninja.com or https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com

Water infiltration in your crawl space isn't just annoying – it's a serious threat to your home's foundation, air quality, and structural integrity. In this comprehensive guide to crawl space sump pumps and basins, Michael Church of Crawl Space Ninja delivers game-changing insights for homeowners battling moisture issues.

Most homeowners make critical mistakes when selecting and installing sump pump systems. Michael reveals why cast iron or carbon steel pumps with substantial warranties are essential investments rather than budget options that fail when you need them most. You'll discover why the placement of your basin might be completely wrong – even if a professional installed it – and learn the surprising truth about where your basin should actually go (hint: it's not always against the foundation wall).

The installation details make all the difference between a system that protects your home for decades and one that fails prematurely. From the perfect basin depth to the critical components most installers skip, like quick-disconnect couplings and check valves, Michael walks through each element with clarity and purpose. You'll understand why monitoring technology isn't just a luxury but essential protection for your investment.

Whether you're tackling a DIY crawl space project or evaluating a contractor's proposal, this episode provides the knowledge to make informed decisions about your home's moisture management system. Ready to transform your damp crawl space into a dry, healthy foundation for your home? Listen now, and don't forget to subscribe for more expert guidance on protecting your home from the ground up.

Support the show

Check out Michael's book, "Crawl Space Repair Myths-Busted" now available on Amazon!

Schedule a consultation: https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/extras

Need help: https://crawlspaceninja.com or https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com

Crawl space water issues often seem like an unsolvable mystery, but the solution starts with understanding a crucial distinction: water management versus waterproofing. These approaches tackle the same problem from fundamentally different angles, each with their own strengths and limitations that every homeowner should understand.

Throughout this episode of our Crawl Space Repair Challenge, Michael Church breaks down the essential tools and techniques professional "ninjas" use to address flooded crawl spaces. From specialized equipment like the battery-powered GeoRipper to the superior HydraWay drainage system (with its distinctive salt-and-pepper appearance that separates it from inferior knockoffs), you'll discover the professional-grade solutions that deliver lasting results.

The heart of this discussion explores why most contractors opt for interior water management rather than exterior waterproofing. While exterior approaches aim to prevent water entry completely, they come with significant drawbacks: higher costs, weather delays, landscape disruption, and the lingering question of whether they'll actually solve the problem completely. By contrast, interior systems manage water that's already entered your crawl space, offering more affordable, weather-resistant solutions that can be easily tested and repaired if necessary.

Michael doesn't just explain concepts—he provides specific, actionable guidance on installation best practices. Learn why proper drainage installation requires nine-inch-deep trenches positioned 12-24 inches from foundation walls, why sealing system endpoints prevents failure, and how your vapor barrier actually functions as part of your water management solution. Whether you're tackling this project yourself or hiring professionals, this knowledge ensures you'll make informed decisions about protecting your home's foundation and creating a healthier living environment.

Support the show

Check out Michael's book, "Crawl Space Repair Myths-Busted" now available on Amazon!

Schedule a consultation: https://buymeacoffee.com/csninja/extras

Need help: https://crawlspaceninja.com or https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com