Encapsulation
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Encapsulation – Seal Your Basement to Block Moisture, Mold, and Airborne Contaminants
If your basement smells musty, feels damp, or shows signs of mold, moisture is getting in — and staying in. Over time, this can lead to structural damage, poor air quality, and increased energy costs. Professional encapsulation is a long-term solution that seals your basement environment, protects your foundation, and creates a cleaner, healthier space below your home.
At Force Basements, we provide full basement encapsulation systems that lock out moisture and critters, control humidity, and create a dry, comfortable environment year-round.
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:
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Blocks ground moisture and vapor from seeping into the space
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Helps prevent mold and mildew growth
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Improves indoor air quality throughout the home
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Reduces allergens and musty odors
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Protects stored belongings, utilities, and finishes
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Increases energy efficiency by stabilizing basement temperatures
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Keeps critters, insects, and rodents out by sealing all entry points
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Prepares the space for finishing or safe storage use
Signs You May Need Basement Encapsulation
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Persistent musty odors
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Damp or sweating walls and floors
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Mold or mildew growth in corners or behind stored items
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Rusting of metal surfaces or equipment
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Water-damaged belongings
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Condensation on HVAC or ductwork
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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.