Encapsulation Services in Central IL
Basement Encapsulation: Seal Out Moisture & Improve Air Quality
If your basement always feels damp, smells like mildew, or leaves cardboard boxes soft to the touch, you’re not imagining it. Even without standing water, moisture can collect in the air, cling to surfaces, and create the perfect conditions for mold, rot, and rising energy bills.
Basement encapsulation stops that cycle. By sealing off walls, insulating key areas, and installing vapor barriers, Force Basements creates a controlled environment that protects both your foundation and the air you breathe. It’s a smart solution for homeowners who want a clean, dry, and healthy basement.
Our Basement Encapsulation Process
1. Inspection & Assessment
We evaluate your basement for signs of moisture, humidity, water intrusion, and insulation needs.
2. Surface Preparation
We clean and prep foundation walls and floors for barrier adhesion and inspect for cracks or structural issues.
3. Vapor Barrier Installation
We install a thick, puncture-resistant vapor barrier across all basement walls and floor surfaces, fully sealed at seams and edges.
4. Sealing & Conditioning
We seal any vents, penetrations, or rim joists to eliminate outside air leaks, and install a high-efficiency dehumidifier to control long-term humidity.
5. Optional Drainage Add-Ons
Depending on your needs, we may recommend:
Why Basement Encapsulation Works
Unlike patch repairs or surface fixes, encapsulation addresses the root of moisture problems — controlling the environment as a whole.
Benefits include:
Blocks ground moisture and vapor from seeping into the space
Helps prevent mold and mildew growth
Improves indoor air quality throughout the home
Reduces allergens and musty odors
Protects stored belongings, utilities, and finishes
Increases energy efficiency by stabilizing basement temperatures
Keeps critters, insects, and rodents out by sealing all entry points
Prepares the space for finishing or safe storage use
Signs You May Need Basement Encapsulation
Persistent musty odors
Damp or sweating walls and floors
Mold or mildew growth in corners or behind stored items
Rusting of metal surfaces or equipment
Water-damaged belongings
Condensation on HVAC or ductwork
High indoor humidity on lower levels
When Is Basement Encapsulation the Right Choice?
Encapsulation is especially effective in older basements with brick or clay tile foundations, which tend to absorb moisture and release musty, unpleasant odors into the home. These materials are porous and often deteriorate over time, allowing damp air and mold to thrive in the space. Encapsulation locks out that moisture and odor, making these basements dry, clean, and more usable.
While block and concrete foundations may not need full encapsulation, a lighter vapor barrier is often installed behind stud walls in finished basements to prevent mold growth and protect insulation. If you’re finishing your basement or dealing with persistent moisture or odor, we’ll help determine the level of encapsulation that’s right for your foundation type.
FAQs About Basement Encapsulation
Is basement encapsulation the same as waterproofing?
No — waterproofing controls water intrusion, while encapsulation completely seals the environment to prevent moisture and vapor transfer.
Can I finish my basement after encapsulation?
Absolutely. Encapsulation is an ideal first step before finishing a basement, as it keeps the space dry, insulated, and protected.
Will encapsulation improve indoor air quality?
Yes — by reducing mold, moisture, and airborne irritants, encapsulation can significantly improve air quality throughout the entire home.
Seal Your Basement. Protect Your Home.
Don’t wait for mold or moisture to take over. Force Basements provides full-service encapsulation systems to protect your basement from the ground up. Schedule your free inspection and quote today.
Service Area
Force Basements proudly provides basement waterproofing, foundation repair, crawl space services, concrete repair and egress window installation to homes and businesses in Peoria, Bloomington, Champaign, Springfield, the Quad Cities, Decatur, Quincy, LaSalle/Peru and surrounding communities.