Case Study: Encapsulation resolved 32,000 crawlspace spores after home purchase

A new homeowner discovered crawlspace mold contamination shortly after purchasing their Atlanta home. The issue had been identified during the sale process, and a $10,000 credit was negotiated at closing from the sellers to cover professional remediation.

Claro's inspection confirmed the crawlspace needed comprehensive treatment: physical mold removal, full encapsulation, permanent dehumidification, and whole-home dry fog treatment to address contamination that had already spread through the HVAC system into the living spaces above.

Pre-treatment testing confirmed significant crawlspace contamination. The crawlspace registered 32,000 total spores per cubic meter, dominated by Penicillium/Aspergillus at 15,000 and Basidiospores at 13,000. Cladosporium measured 3,000 spores and hyphal fragments at 110, indicating active mold growth nearby. Chaetomium was also detected at 13 spores, a water-damage indicator.

The main return air registered 3,300 spores, confirming that contamination from the crawlspace was migrating through the HVAC system into the living spaces above. The home's ductwork was actively distributing crawlspace mold throughout the house.

Claro performed comprehensive crawlspace remediation across the 833 square foot space. Physical mold removal addressed visible growth throughout the crawlspace. All damaged insulation, vapor barrier, and debris were removed and disposed. The crawlspace was then fully encapsulated with 20 mil VIPER vapor barrier providing 100% ground coverage with taped seams sealed to foundation walls. R-10 foundation wall insulation and R-19 band insulation were installed throughout.

A professional-grade Aprilaire E070 dehumidifier was installed with a dedicated GFI electrical outlet to permanently manage crawlspace humidity and prevent future moisture accumulation. The entire 2,163 square foot home and HVAC system were then treated with InstaPure and EverPure dry fog to eliminate airborne contamination that had migrated from the crawlspace into the living spaces.

Post-treatment testing confirmed complete elimination. The main return dropped from 3,300 spores to less than 13 CFU/m3. The crawlspace dropped from 32,000 spores to just 13 CFU/m3 with only trace non-sporulating fungi remaining. The new homeowner had lab-verified proof that the crawlspace contamination was fully resolved, backed by Claro's one-year guarantee.