Foundation & Crawl Space Repair in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama | Basement Waterproofing Professionals

What a Drought Does to Your Foundation

2026-07-09T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

Prolonged drought across Central Tennessee, Southwest Kentucky, and Northern Alabama can have a significant impact on your home's foundation. As clay soil loses moisture, it shrinks and may no longer provide consistent support beneath your home. This movement can lead to cracks, sticking doors and windows, uneven floors, and other structural concerns. Even after rain returns, expanding soil can create additional movement. Knowing what to watch for and scheduling a professional inspection when warning signs appear can help prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs.

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If you've noticed new cracks in your walls, doors that suddenly stick, or gaps forming around your foundation this summer, you're not alone. Across Central Tennessee, Southwest Kentucky, and Northern Alabama, prolonged drought conditions are changing the soil beneath thousands of homes.

While many homeowners associate foundation problems with heavy rain, extended dry weather can be just as damaging. In fact, long-term drought can cause clay soil to shrink enough that portions of a home's foundation lose support.

Understanding what's happening beneath your home can help you recognize the warning signs early and avoid more costly repairs later.

Current Drought Conditions Across Our Region

Much of the South is currently experiencing moderate to exceptional drought conditions due to a prolonged rainfall deficit over the past several months. Rather than being a short stretch of dry weather, this represents a long-term shortage of moisture that extends deep into the soil profile.

These conditions affect more than lawns and landscaping. They reduce moisture throughout the ground supporting homes, especially in areas with expansive clay soils like those found throughout Central Tennessee, Northern Alabama, and Southwest Kentucky.

When drought persists, the soil beneath your home begins to behave differently than it would during a typical summer dry spell.

Why Clay Soil Causes Foundation Problems

Our region is known for its clay-rich soils. Unlike sandy soils that drain quickly and change very little with moisture levels, clay expands when it absorbs water and shrinks as it dries.

During an extended drought, that shrinkage can occur several feet below the surface.

"As the clay soil dries up, it has a tendency to start to shrink," explains Dustin Gebers, Frontier's Vice President. "The house is sitting on top of that dirt. When that dirt starts to sink, the home's going to move, too."

A brief dry period typically affects only the upper layer of soil. During a deep drought, however, moisture is pulled from much deeper within the ground. That means the entire layer supporting your foundation may begin shrinking rather than just the surface.

As clay contracts, it can:

Pull away from foundation walls
Create voids beneath concrete slabs
Reduce the support beneath footings
Cause portions of the home to settle unevenly

This movement often happens gradually, making the warning signs easy to overlook until more noticeable damage appears.

What Happens When the Rain Returns?

Many homeowners assume rain immediately solves drought-related problems.

In reality, the transition back to wet weather can create another round of movement.

After months of drying, clay soil absorbs water unevenly. Some areas expand faster than others, causing the foundation to shift again.

Melissa Stratton, one of Frontier's Design Specialists, explains it simply:

"As it dries out, everything shrinks and contracts. When everything gets wet, everything expands and gets bigger. That causes movement of the foundation."

This repeated cycle of shrinking during drought and swelling after heavy rain places continual stress on foundations throughout our service area.

Early Warning Signs to Watch For

Foundation movement often begins with subtle symptoms before larger structural issues develop.

Dustin recommends watching for:

Doors or windows that suddenly stick
Cracks above doors or windows
Stair-step cracks in brick
Hairline cracks around the exterior foundation
New drywall cracks inside the home

"There's no such thing as typical settlement," Dustin says. "A house shouldn't move. If you're seeing any type of cracking inside your house or out, then that means something has moved."

Melissa says she also looks for sloping floors and visible changes around the exterior during every inspection.

Even if these issues seem minor, they're worth paying attention to, especially during periods of prolonged drought.

What Frontier Looks for During a Foundation Inspection

One of the biggest misconceptions homeowners have is that foundation inspections rely on visual observations alone.

At Frontier, inspections combine visual evaluations with precision measurements to determine whether movement has occurred.

According to Dustin, inspectors evaluate both the interior and exterior of the home using laser equipment to accurately measure elevation changes.

"The laser is perfect," he explains. "The foundation should also be perfect."

Inspectors also evaluate factors that may contribute to future movement, including:

Drainage around the home
Downspout placement
Surface grading
Crawl space or basement conditions
Moisture and humidity levels where applicable

Melissa says laser measurements allow homeowners to actually see where movement has occurred rather than relying on guesswork.

How Homeowners Can Help Protect Their Foundation During Drought

While no homeowner can control the weather, there are several steps that can help reduce stress on a foundation.

Dustin recommends:

Keep gutters free of debris.
Extend downspouts at least 10 feet away from the home.
Maintain positive grading so water flows away from the foundation.
Watch for new cracks instead of assuming they're cosmetic.
Measure cracks with tape or another reference point to determine whether they're changing over time.

Proper water management becomes especially important once rain returns, as directing water away from the foundation helps prevent uneven soil saturation.

Don't Wait for Small Problems to Become Expensive Repairs

Foundation movement rarely improves on its own.

As one portion of a home settles, stress is transferred throughout the rest of the structure.

"If one side's settling, it's pulling on the rest of it," Dustin explains. "The longer you wait, the more costly it's going to be."

The good news is that not every crack indicates a major structural issue. Sometimes movement is minor, and sometimes the problem is unrelated to the foundation altogether.

That's why Dustin encourages homeowners not to guess.

"It doesn't cost anything to have a professional come out there and take a look at it. We'll let you know if it's a foundation issue or if it could just be a drywall problem."

Serving Homeowners Throughout Central Tennessee, Southwest Kentucky & Northern Alabama

Drought affects every home differently because every home sits on different soil, has different drainage patterns, and experiences different moisture conditions.

If you've noticed cracks, sticking doors, uneven floors, or other changes during this season's drought, having your home professionally evaluated can provide peace of mind and help identify issues before they become more significant.

At Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, every inspection is focused on identifying the root cause of the problem and recommending solutions that fit your home's unique conditions, because no two foundations are exactly alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can drought damage a new home's foundation?
Yes. Foundation movement is caused by soil conditions, not the age of the home. Even newer homes can experience settlement during prolonged drought.

Are foundation cracks always caused by drought?
No. Foundation cracks can result from several factors, including poor drainage, expansive soils, tree roots, or normal soil movement. A professional inspection can identify the underlying cause.

Can tree roots make drought-related foundation problems worse?
Yes. Large trees absorb significant amounts of water from the soil. During a drought, this can dry the soil even faster near your home's foundation and contribute to uneven settlement.

How often should I have my foundation inspected?
If you've noticed new cracks, sticking doors, or other signs of movement, schedule an inspection as soon as possible. Otherwise, it's a good idea to have your foundation evaluated if you notice changes after extended periods of drought or heavy rainfall.

Frontier Foundation Hosts Third Annual Poker Run to Support Families Fighting Cancer

2026-06-29T11:36:30.05Z

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair will host its third annual Cancer Drive Poker Run on Saturday, August 1, 2026, raising money for a local family facing cancer in honor of Caleb Short. The event is open to all vehicles and runs regardless of the weather.

Caleb Short served as Frontier's Warehouse Manager for six years before passing away from cancer in April 2024. His coworkers organized the first ride that September. It drew 35 riders and raised over $4,600 for his family. The 2025 ride welcomed more than 70 participants, including over 25 Frontier volunteers, and raised $3,500 for another family in the Frontier community facing cancer.

Caleb's wife, Deanna Short, attended both rides. After the 2025 event, she wrote:

“We had a great time today participating in the annual Frontier Poker Run in memory of Caleb. There are two things I know for sure, and the first is that Caleb loved his job, and he loved it so much because of his amazing work family. The second thing I am certain about is their love for him. I am a witness to this each time I receive a text or phone call with one of them faithfully checking on me and the kids. Being up there today just hugging them and listening to them say how much they miss him is a true testament to what this company is all about.”

Registration for the 2026 ride opens at 10:00 a.m. at 5150 Hwy 41A in Joelton with donuts for donations. Bikes roll at 10:30 a.m., followed by all other vehicles at 10:45 a.m. Riders and drivers have until 3:00 p.m. to complete the route.

The run covers five stops across Middle Tennessee:

The Pit, 1700 Kirby St, Springfield, TN 37172
Bent Wrench, 4724 Ashland City Rd, Clarksville, TN 37043
Que'd Up 615, 6381 US-41 ALT, Pleasant View, TN 37146
Union Hill Trading Post, 1766 Union Hill Rd, Goodlettsville, TN 37072
Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, 5150 Hwy 41A, Joelton, TN 37080 (finish line)

Entry is $20 per card hand. Redraws are available at the end for $5 each, with no limit. Motorcycles, Jeeps, cars, and trucks are all welcome.

For sponsorship opportunities or more information, contact Frontier Foundation and Crawl Space Repair at 615-269-7772.

Event Details: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EGbG8ZcY1/

Why Professional Foundation Crack Repair is a Must

2026-06-22T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

A crack in your foundation wall is one of those home maintenance issues that is easy to ignore, until it Isn't. While it might start as a thin crack, it is often a silent signal that your home’s structural foundation is shifting or settling.

If you’re tempted to run to the hardware store for a tube of epoxy and call it a day, think twice. Foundations are complex, and a "patch job" rarely addresses the underlying problem. Here is why professional repair is the only way to safeguard your home.

Why Is a DIY Foundation Repair Not a Viable Long-Term Solution?

It is tempting to believe that a simple caulk-and-fill fix will solve the problem. However, DIY kits often fail for two reasons: they don't account for movement, and they don't fix the source.

Foundations Move: Concrete is always expanding and contracting due to temperature changes and soil pressure. Standard store-bought epoxies are often rigid. Once the foundation shifts again, which it will, the rigid patch cracks, and you are right back where you started.
Symptoms vs. Causes: A crack is usually a symptom of a larger issue, such as hydrostatic pressure (water pushing against the wall) or settlement (the soil under the home is failing). Filling the crack does nothing to stop the earth from continuing to push or sink your home.

While minor hairline cracks resulting from the natural curing of concrete are often harmless, other types of cracks serve as significant "red flags" that require professional attention. Whether a crack is a sign of normal settling or an indicator of more pressing issues such as hydrostatic pressure, expansive soil, or ongoing structural settlement, it is essential to monitor them closely. Any crack that widens over time, exhibits a "stair-step" pattern, or causes misalignment in your doors and windows should be evaluated immediately to prevent further structural deterioration.

What Are Professional Solutions for Structural Stability?

When a crack is caused by settling or bowing walls, patching isn't enough. Professional foundation repair contractors use engineered solutions designed to stabilize the home:

Pier Systems: If your home is sinking or settling, Push Piers or Helical Piers are driven deep into the stable, load-bearing soil beneath your home. These piers essentially transfer the weight of the structure from the weak soil to the solid strata below, often allowing the home to be lifted back to a level position.
Carbon Fiber Straps: For walls that are bowing or cracking due to pressure, high-strength carbon fiber straps are bonded to the wall. They are low-profile and incredibly strong, preventing the wall from moving any further.
Wall Anchors: In cases of severe inward bowing, steel wall anchors can be installed to stabilize the wall and, over time, potentially pull it back toward its original position.

What Is The NexusPro® Advantage for Crack Sealing?

When it comes to the crack itself, not all sealants are created equal. At Frontier Foundation &

Crawl Space Repair, we offer the NexusPro Joint Sealant System. Unlike the rigid, brittle

products you find on store shelves, NexusPro is a specialty silicone-based sealant engineered specifically for concrete joints and cracks. Its primary advantages include:

Superior Flexibility: NexusPro is designed to withstand the natural expansion and contraction of your foundation without pulling away or cracking.
UV and Weather Resistance: It is designed to maintain its seal and color even when exposed to fluctuating temperatures and moisture.
Long-Lasting Seal: Because it stays flexible, it provides a permanent, watertight barrier that keeps water and soil gases (like radon) out of your basement or crawl space.

What’s The Bottom Line? Don't Guess with Your Home!

Your home’s foundation is the most critical part of its structure. Guessing whether a crack is "just cosmetic" or a sign of structural failure is a risk you shouldn't take. If you see cracks, bowing, or signs of water intrusion, it is time to have a professional assessment.

At Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, we don't just patch cracks; we evaluate the structural health of your home and provide permanent, engineered solutions. Don't wait for a small crack to become a major repair.

Protect Your Foundation, Protect Your Home

Your foundation is the bedrock of your home, literally. When you ignore cracks, you aren't just ignoring a cosmetic flaw; you're ignoring the structural integrity of your most valuable investment. Don’t leave your home’s future to chance or a "quick-fix" tube of epoxy.

Ready to get a professional perspective?

At Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, we specialize in identifying the root cause of your foundation issues. Whether your home is settling, bowing, or experiencing water intrusion, our team provides custom, engineered solutions to give you lasting peace of mind.

Don't wait for a hairline crack to turn into a costly structural nightmare. Contact Frontier today to schedule your free, no-obligation inspection. Our experts will evaluate your foundation and show you the proven, permanent path to a safer, stronger home.

Crawl Space Inspection: What to Expect

2026-06-18T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

A crawl space inspection helps identify moisture problems, structural damage, poor drainage, and high humidity before they lead to costly repairs. During the inspection, a Frontier design specialist will evaluate your crawl space, take measurements, document any issues with photos, and explain the recommended solutions to help protect your home.

Musty odors, sagging floors, and cold floors often start with problems in the crawl space. A professional crawl space inspection can help identify what's causing these issues before they lead to more extensive damage.

Already have an inspection scheduled? Great! Here's what you can expect when a Frontier design specialist visits your home.

Arrival at Your Home

Your design specialist will call 30 to 60 minutes before your appointment to let you know they're on the way. At Frontier, we respect homeowners' time, and that starts with showing up when we say we will.

Once they arrive, your specialist will introduce themselves and ask about the issues you've been experiencing and how long you've noticed them. Understanding your concerns before entering the crawl space helps us focus on the areas that matter most to you.

Inspecting the Crawl Space

Before entering the crawl space, the design specialist will walk around the exterior of your home, looking for foundation cracks, grading concerns, and signs of water intrusion. They'll also identify potential locations for a drainage system discharge line if one is needed.

They'll then return to their vehicle to gather their gear, which helps them safely inspect every part of your crawl space.

Once inside, the specialist will measure the crawl space and create a scaled drawing of its layout, noting the location of support posts, beams, plumbing lines, and any access points. This drawing becomes the basis for the project design, and it's how your specialist determines what solutions are needed, where equipment like a sump pump or dehumidifier would be installed, and what the project will cost.

If you've noticed sagging, uneven, or bouncy floors, the design specialist will pay close attention to the structural supports beneath your home. They will inspect floor joists, beams, and support posts for signs of settlement, damage, or wood rot. Moisture problems can weaken these supports over time, causing floors above to sag or feel unstable when walked on.

Because high humidity is one of the leading causes of crawl space problems throughout the South, the specialist will use a hygrometer to measure the relative humidity. Relative humidity above 60% creates conditions where mold and mildew can grow, and pests are more likely to thrive.

In addition to measuring humidity levels, the specialist will use a wood moisture meter to test the moisture content of floor joists and other wooden structural components. Readings above 19% indicate conditions where wood rot can begin to develop and should be addressed promptly.

If moisture appears to be a concern, the specialist will look for signs of water intrusion. Sometimes the evidence is obvious, such as standing water on the crawl space floor. More often, it appears through clues like efflorescence on foundation walls, condensation on plumbing lines, rust on metal components, or mold growth on wood surfaces.

If a drainage system and sump pump are recommended, the specialist will use a laser level to identify the lowest point in the crawl space, which helps determine the best location for the sump pump.

Throughout the inspection, the specialist will take photos of everything they find so they can clearly explain their observations when the inspection is complete.

After the Inspection

Once the inspection is finished, your design specialist will change out of their protective gear and review their findings with you. You will receive a virtual tour of your crawl space through images the specialist has taken.

If your crawl space has multiple issues that need attention, your specialist can help create a phased plan that fits your budget, and easy payment options can make the project more manageable. If you'd rather focus on specific concerns first, we can also prioritize the repairs that matter most to you.

At Frontier, our design specialists don't believe in recommending products you don't need. Instead, they'll explain the solutions they recommend, why they're recommending them, and the costs associated with each option.

Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of your crawl space and the information you need to protect your home confidently.

Still need to schedule an appointment? We can’t wait to hear from you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a crawl space inspection take?

Most crawl space inspections take between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the crawl space and the number of concerns being evaluated. Larger crawl spaces or homes with multiple issues may require additional time.

Do I need to enter the crawl space during the inspection?

No. Your design specialist will handle the inspection and document the conditions they find with photos. Afterward, they'll review the findings with you and answer any questions you have.

What problems can a crawl space inspection uncover?

A crawl space inspection can identify moisture intrusion, high humidity, mold growth, wood rot, sagging floors, damaged support systems, poor drainage, pest-friendly conditions, and other issues that may affect your home's structure and air quality.

What happens after the inspection?

After the inspection, your specialist will explain their findings, show you photos from the crawl space, and discuss any recommended solutions. If repairs are needed, they'll help you understand your options and prioritize the work based on your goals and budget.

What Is That Noise Under My House? Signs You Have a Critter in Your Crawl Space

2026-06-11T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

If you hear scratching, heavier movement, smell unusual odors, or see torn insulation under your home, there’s a good chance a critter has moved into your crawl space. The longer it stays there, the more damage it can cause, especially in humid Southern homes where moisture makes the space even more attractive.

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Most homeowners don’t discover a critter in their crawl space because they see it first. They notice it when new sounds, unusual smells, or signs of damage start to appear.

Maybe there’s scratching beneath the floor when the house gets quiet at night, a new odor shows up without a clear source or insulation is hanging down where it shouldn’t be.

After inspecting thousands of crawl spaces across the South, one thing is consistent: animals leave clear signs long before they’re ever seen. If something has changed in your home, it usually isn’t random.

Scratching at Night Usually Means Rodents

Mice and rats are some of the most common crawl space intruders, especially in homes with easy access points and moisture issues.

The sounds are usually light, quick, and repetitive, like something moving back and forth just under the floor. Most homeowners notice it late at night, when the house is finally quiet.

Rodents can squeeze through very small openings. Gaps around vents, plumbing, and utility penetrations are all common entry points. Once inside, they stay close to insulation and framing, where they can nest and move unnoticed.

You may also see small droppings near beams or along walls, shredded insulation, gnaw marks on wood, or nesting material tucked into corners. Rodents don’t stay idle, and the longer they remain in the crawl space, the more damage they tend to cause.

Heavier Noises Point to Larger Animals

If the sound has more weight to it, like thumping, dragging, or steady movement, it usually points to a larger animal.

In Tennessee and across the Southeast, raccoons, opossums, skunks, and even armadillos can end up in crawl spaces. These animals move differently from rodents, and they tend to leave behind louder, more disruptive signs.

Instead of small scraps or light nesting debris, you may find insulation pulled down in larger sections, ductwork shifted or torn loose, or visible travel paths where the animal has been moving repeatedly. Larger animals often settle in once they gain access, which is why the damage can build faster than homeowners expect.

Damaged Insulation Is a Visible Warning

Insulation often shows the first clear evidence of activity under the house.

Rodents tear it apart for nesting. Larger animals push it out of place or pull it down as they move through the crawl space. Either way, it leaves visible disruption.

In Southern homes, that damage matters even more because humidity can make the problem worse. Insulation holds moisture and contributes to odors or deterioration beneath the home.

If insulation is hanging, missing in sections, or packed into odd areas, something has likely been active there recently.

Odors Often Show Up Before Anything Else

Sometimes the first sign isn’t noise, it’s smell.

Crawl spaces in the South already deal with humidity, and animal activity makes odors stronger and harder to ignore. Urine and droppings can create a sharp, persistent smell, and a dead animal can create an even stronger one. Skunks bring their own unmistakable odor into the mix.

Because air naturally rises from the crawl space into the home, those smells do not stay beneath the floor. If you notice a musty, sharp, or foul odor indoors, the cause may be coming from below.

What Crawl Space Repair Should Address

Finding an animal in your crawl space is usually a symptom of a larger problem. Replacing damaged insulation or cleaning up contaminated materials is important, but those repairs alone won't stop animals from coming back.

Effective crawl space repair addresses the conditions that attracted wildlife in the first place. That often means sealing entry points, controlling moisture, and repairing damage caused by long-term exposure to humidity and pests.

For many homeowners, encapsulation is part of the solution. While encapsulation isn't a form of pest control, it creates a more controlled environment beneath the home. By reducing moisture and sealing the crawl space from outside air, encapsulation helps eliminate many of the conditions that make the space attractive to unwanted visitors.

What Happens Next Matters

Most homeowners don't discover an animal in their crawl space because they see it. They hear scratching beneath the floor, notice a strange odor, or find torn insulation where it shouldn't be.

Those early warning signs matter. The longer an animal has access to the crawl space, the more opportunity it has to damage materials, leave contamination behind, and create larger repair issues.

Once the animal has been removed, the next step is a crawl space inspection. We offer free inspections to identify moisture problems, damaged materials, and potential entry points that may be attracting wildlife beneath your home. From there, we can recommend the right repair for your home.

That is how you stop a small issue from turning into a bigger one.

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FAQ

Do I need to remove the animal before calling you?

If you know an animal is actively living in the crawl space, contacting a pest control or wildlife removal company first is a reasonable step. Once the animal is gone, we can inspect the crawl space, identify how it got in, and address the moisture and damage that made the space attractive in the first place. If you're not sure whether an animal is still present, a crawl space inspection is still a good starting point.

What are the most common signs of a critter in a crawl space?

In Tennessee homes, the first signs are usually scratching at night, heavier movement beneath the floor, torn insulation, droppings, or a musky smell that seems to come and go. In humid weather, those odors and signs often become more noticeable because the crawl space holds moisture longer.

What animals usually get into crawl spaces in Tennessee?

Mice and rats are the most common, but raccoons, opossums, skunks, and even armadillos can show up in crawl spaces across Middle Tennessee. The mix of wooded lots, older foundation styles, and warm, damp conditions gives wildlife plenty of chances to get in.

Why do crawl spaces seem worse in the South?

Crawl spaces in the South deal with heat and humidity for much of the year, which makes them more attractive to animals and harder to keep dry. Moisture can also make insulation sag, wood smell musty, and odors move more easily into the living space above.

Can critters damage more than just insulation?

Yes. They can chew wiring, tear ductwork, contaminate insulation, and leave behind waste that affects air quality in the home. In a humid crawl space, those problems can spread faster because damp conditions make cleanup and repair more urgent.

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair Named Best of Alabama 2026 Winner

2026-06-04T16:26:32.05Z

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (June 4, 2026) – Alabama residents have selected Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair as a Best of Alabama 2026 winner for Foundation and Concrete Repair Services, marking the company’s second consecutive recognition in the statewide awards program.

The award reflects the trust Alabama homeowners have placed in Frontier, a family-owned and operated company dedicated to helping homeowners protect their biggest investment. The recognition also reinforces Frontier’s mission to provide safe, dry, and stable homes through foundation repair, crawl space repair, waterproofing, and concrete lifting solutions.

Frontier expanded into Alabama in 2023 and shortly after, opened an office in Huntsville to better serve homeowners across Northern Alabama. In 2025 alone, the company serviced more than 350 homes throughout the region.

Best of Alabama is an annual awards program hosted by Guide to Alabama that recognizes outstanding businesses, organizations, and service providers across the state. Winners are selected through a combination of public voting and editorial review, highlighting companies that have earned strong community support and a reputation for excellence.

About Frontier Foundation and Crawl Space Repair

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair is a trusted, family-owned company specializing in foundation repair, crawl space solutions, basement waterproofing, and concrete leveling across Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama. With 25 years of experience, Frontier is known for its commitment to fixing unhealthy homes through permanent solutions and exceptional customer service.

The Surprising Reason Critters Are Attracted to Your Crawl Space

2026-06-02T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

Animals are often attracted to crawl spaces because they provide moisture, food, shelter, and easy access. High humidity can attract insects, which in turn attract rodents, and rodents can attract larger predators like snakes. Common entry points such as open vents, damaged crawl space doors, and foundation gaps make it easy for critters to move in. Crawl space encapsulation helps reduce moisture, limit food sources, and seal common access points, making the space far less attractive to unwanted pests.

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Rats. Snakes. Skunks. Oh My!

One thing we've learned after spending time around crawl spaces is that animals aren't just randomly picking homes to move into.

If you've got critters under your house, there's usually a reason.

At Frontier, we inspect crawl spaces every day across Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama, and we see the same pattern over and over. A homeowner starts noticing a musty smell, hears scratching under the floor at night, or spots signs of an animal around the foundation. When we get into the crawl space, we often find the same thing: moisture.

Most homeowners think they have an animal problem. In reality, they have a crawl space problem that's attracting animals.

Why Are Animals Bad to Have Under Your Home?

As much as we enjoy seeing wildlife outdoors, we don't want it living under our houses, and we don't recommend you do either.

A critter in your crawl space can cause more damage than most people realize. We've seen rodents tear apart insulation, chew electrical wiring, and damage ductwork. We've seen raccoons and opossums turn crawl spaces into nesting areas. We've even seen snakes move in because there was already a rodent problem underneath the home.

The bigger concern is what gets left behind. Droppings, urine, bacteria, odors, and parasites can all end up in the space beneath your family. Since the air in your crawl space naturally rises into your home, those conditions don't always stay below the floor.

That's why we encourage homeowners to address critter issues quickly. The longer they stay, the more damage they can cause.

To learn more, visit: Common Critters That Can Invade Your Crawl Space

What Causes Animals to Come Under Your Home?

People often ask us, "Why would an animal want to live under my house?"

The answer is pretty simple. Your crawl space gives them everything they're looking for.

Moisture Creates the Perfect Environment

If we had to point to the number one thing that attracts critters, it would be moisture.

When a crawl space stays damp, it becomes comfortable for insects and other small pests. Humidity levels above 60% can create condensation and damp surfaces that many bugs need to survive.

Once those insects move in, other animals start following the food source.

It's not much different than a restaurant opening in town. If there's food available, something is going to show up looking for a meal.

One Pest Leads to Another

Nature has a way of stacking problems.

First come the insects. Then come the spiders and other predators. Then come the mice and rats looking for food.

And if you've got mice and rats, there's a good chance something else is going to show up looking for them.

We've had homeowners call us after they found a snake in their crawl space, but the snake wasn't the real problem. The rodents it was feeding on were.

By the time you notice a larger critter, there's often a bigger issue underneath the surface.

Your Crawl Space Feels Safe

Think about your crawl space from an animal's perspective.

It's dark. It's quiet. It's protected from the weather and predators.

For many animals, that's the perfect place to build a nest or raise young.

Add a little moisture and a reliable food source, and you've created a pretty attractive place to live.

Easy Ways In

Another thing we commonly see is easy access.

Damaged crawl space doors, open vents, gaps around plumbing, and foundation openings can all give critters a way inside.

Some rodents can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. Once they find a way in, they tend to come back.

How Encapsulation Helps Keep Critters Away

When most people hear "crawl space encapsulation," they think of a plastic liner on the ground. In reality, it's a system designed to remove many of the things critters are looking for.

First, any water entering the crawl space is addressed with a drainage system and sump pump. Standing water attracts insects and creates the damp conditions that many pests need to survive.

Next, drainage matting and a CleanSpace liner help separate the crawl space from the earth below. This reduces ground moisture and creates a cleaner environment that's less inviting to insects, rodents, and other animals.

A SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier then helps keep humidity below 60%, making it harder for mold, dust mites, and many insects to thrive. With fewer insects present, larger pests have less reason to move in looking for food.

Finally, sealing foundation vents and installing a durable crawl space door helps reduce the easy entry points that many critters use to get underneath a home.

No encapsulation system can guarantee that an animal will never find its way into your crawl space. But by reducing moisture, limiting food sources, and making access more difficult, you can make your crawl space far less attractive to unwanted guests.

If you're hearing noises beneath your floors, noticing musty odors, or seeing signs of pest activity around your home, the problem may be bigger than the critter itself. Addressing the conditions that attracted it in the first place can help protect your home for years to come.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What critters are most commonly found in crawl spaces?

The most common crawl space critters in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama include mice, rats, snakes, raccoons, opossums, squirrels, spiders, termites, and carpenter ants. The type of animal often depends on the conditions in the crawl space, including moisture levels, available food sources, and entry points.

How do critters get into my crawl space?

Animals can enter through foundation vents, damaged crawl space doors, gaps around plumbing or utility lines, cracks in the foundation, and other small openings around the home. Some rodents can squeeze through openings as small as a dime.

Will crawl space encapsulation get rid of critters?

Encapsulation is not a pest removal service, but it can make your crawl space much less attractive to animals. By controlling moisture, reducing insect activity, removing nesting opportunities, and helping seal common entry points, encapsulation addresses many of the conditions that attract critters in the first place.

What are the signs that I have critters in my crawl space?

Common signs include scratching or movement beneath the floor, musty or unusual odors, droppings, damaged insulation, chewed wires, torn vapor barriers, increased insect activity, or visible animal tracks around crawl space entrances. If you notice any of these signs, it's a good idea to have your crawl space inspected.

The Importance of Sealing Concrete

2026-05-27T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

When you look at your driveway or patio, it probably looks like a solid, impenetrable slab. However, if you were to look through a microscope, you’d see that concrete is actually more like a dense sponge. It’s naturally porous, filled with tiny holes and capillary tracts that basically act as an open invitation for water, oil, and chemicals to settle in.

If you want your concrete to last for the long haul, sealing it is the most important maintenance step you can take. Here are the most common questions we get about why this protection is so vital.

How Does the "Freeze-Thaw Cycle" Destroy Concrete?

Water is arguably concrete’s biggest enemy. When rain or snowmelt enters those tiny pores, it gets trapped. In Middle TN, SW Kentucky, and Northern Alabama, temperatures frequently bounce back and forth across the freezing mark.

According to the NIH Division of Technical Resources, when that trapped water freezes, it expands by about 9%. This creates massive internal pressure that causes the concrete to flake, chip, and crack from the inside out, a process known as spalling. A professional sealant creates a barrier that prevents moisture from getting in, helping your driveway avoid winter-related decay. For more info, click here.

Can Road Salt and Household Chemicals Cause Permanent Damage?

If you’re using de-icing salts in the winter, you might be unintentionally speeding up your concrete's retirement. Salt is "hygroscopic," which is a fancy way of saying it attracts even more water into the concrete's pores. It also lowers the freezing point, which actually increases the number of freeze-thaw cycles your concrete has to endure in a single day.

Beyond salt, substances like oil, gas, and fertilizers can seep into unsealed concrete, leaving deep stains that are nearly impossible to remove. A high-quality sealant keeps these nasty contaminants on the surface, making them much easier to clean off before they cause a permanent eyesore.

Is the Sun Actually "Sunburning" Your Outdoor Surfaces?

Just like your skin, concrete can take a beating from the sun. UV radiation eventually breaks down the polymers that hold the concrete together. Over time, this leads to a process called "dusting," where the surface wears down into a fine powder. A UV-blocking sealant acts like sunscreen, preventing fading, discoloration, and structural weakening.

What Makes the Frontier "SealantPro®" Solution Different?

Most DIY sealers from the big-box stores are "topical," meaning they sit on top like a layer of wax. These often peel, turn yellow, or wear off every couple of years. At Frontier, we do things a bit differently with SealantPro®:

Molecular Bonding: Instead of just sitting on top, SealantPro penetrates deep into the pores and chemically bonds with the concrete. It becomes a permanent part of the slab.
One and Done: Because of that bond, it never needs to be reapplied.
Fast Curing: Your driveway is ready for tires in just 6 hours, rather than the days required by traditional sealants.
Non-Slip Finish: It dries clear and matte, so it doesn't turn your sidewalk into a skating rink when it gets wet.

Is Sealing Concrete Really a Good Investment?

Your driveway and sidewalks are a huge part of your home’s curb appeal and overall value. By sealing your concrete now, you aren't just making it look better; you're extending its lifespan by 3 to 5 times. It's much easier (and cheaper!) to protect the concrete you have than it is to pay for a full tear-out and replacement down the road.

FAQ

How often do I need to reapply concrete sealant?

If you use a standard, store-bought topical sealer, you will typically need to reapply it every 2 to 3 years as it wears off, peels, or yellows. However, because Frontier uses SealantPro®, it penetrates deep into the pores and chemically bonds with the concrete on a molecular level. It becomes a permanent part of the slab, meaning it only needs to be applied once and never has to be reapplied.

Can you seal concrete that is already cracked or uneven?

Yes, but we don't recommend sealing over active damage. If your driveway or patio has cracks or sunken slabs, our team can repair and level the concrete first using PolyLevel® polyurethane foam and NexusPro® joint sealant. Once the structural issues are fixed and the surface is stable, we apply SealantPro® to protect the entire area from future damage.

How long do I have to wait to drive on my driveway after it’s sealed?

One of the best features of SealantPro® is how quickly it cures. While traditional DIY sealants can keep you off your driveway for several days, SealantPro® dries clear and matte, and is fully ready for foot and vehicle traffic just 6 hours after application.

What is the best time of year to get my concrete sealed?

We can seal concrete any time the weather is dry and temperatures are above freezing (typically from early spring through late fall). However, getting it done in the spring, summer, or early autumn is highly recommended so that your concrete has a fully matured, waterproof shield in place before the harsh winter freeze-thaw cycles and road salts hit.

Schedule your Free Estimate with Frontier today!

Homeowner Guide to Removing Crawl Space Mold

2026-05-19T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

Crawl space mold is usually caused by excess moisture, high humidity, standing water, or vented crawl spaces that allow humid Southern air under the home. While bleach or portable dehumidifiers may temporarily help, mold often returns if the underlying moisture problem is not addressed.

Professional mold removal may include treatments like MoldX and soda blasting to clean affected wood surfaces. In severe cases, damaged wood may need to be replaced.

Long-term mold prevention typically involves crawl space encapsulation, drainage systems, sump pumps, and dehumidification to control moisture and humidity beneath the home.

Schedule FREE Inspection

If you’ve noticed a musty smell in your home, visible mold under your floor joists, or high humidity in your crawl space, you’re not alone. Crawl space mold is one of the most common issues homeowners across Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama deal with, especially in humid Southern climates.

Unfortunately, many homeowners clean the mold they can see without addressing the moisture problem causing it. That often leads to mold returning again and again.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

What causes crawl space mold
Why some DIY solutions don’t work long-term
How professionals remove crawl space mold
What helps prevent mold from returning

Why Mold Grows in Crawl Spaces

Mold thrives in damp, humid environments with organic material to feed on. Crawl spaces are the perfect environment because they often contain:

Wood floor joists
Insulation
Dust and debris
High humidity
Standing water or condensation

Mold typically begins growing when relative humidity rises above 60%. In the South, crawl spaces frequently stay above this level due to outdoor humidity, poor drainage, groundwater intrusion, and vented crawl space designs.

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that the air in the crawl space can affect the rest of the home. Because of the stack effect, air naturally rises from the crawl space into the living areas above it. That means mold spores, odors, and humid air can travel upward into your home.

Signs You May Have Crawl Space Mold

Some homeowners discover mold during a crawl space inspection, while others notice symptoms inside the home first.

Common signs of crawl space mold include:

Musty odors inside the home
Allergy-like symptoms indoors
Condensation on pipes or ductwork
Falling insulation
Visible mold on floor joists or subflooring
Soft or sagging floors
High indoor humidity
Wood rot or moisture damage

Some homeowners even describe the smell as similar to wet wood, mildew, or cat urine.

What You May Have Tried That Didn’t Work

Spraying Bleach or Vinegar

We often reach for bleach first as a mold killer. It is a biocide that destroys living organisms, which is why it’s great for cleaning bacteria. The Environmental Protection Agency advises against using bleach to clean mold because it can leave behind mold spores that continue to grow if moisture conditions remain.

Even if bleach temporarily removes visible staining, it does not solve the moisture problem that caused the mold in the first place. If humidity levels stay high, mold usually returns.

Adding a Dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers are an effective way to dry out a space and help prevent mold growth. Mold generally needs at least 60% relative humidity to thrive.

However, if you only add a dehumidifier and neglect to address moisture intrusion, the unit may have to work much harder than intended. In crawl spaces with active water intrusion or open vents, portable dehumidifiers often become overwhelmed and ineffective.

Adding Crawl Space Vents

Traditional building science once recommended adding vents to improve airflow beneath the home. Unfortunately, in Southern climates, vented crawl spaces often create more moisture problems instead of fewer.

During the summer, warm, humid air enters the cooler crawl space and raises the relative humidity. As the warm air cools, condensation forms on pipes, ductwork, and wood framing.

During the winter, cold outside air can enter the crawl space and contribute to frozen pipes or condensation buildup.

This cycle of moisture creates ideal conditions for mold growth throughout the year.

How to Remove Crawl Space Mold

MoldX

MoldX Mold Killer is commonly used as part of crawl space mold remediation. It is a multi-purpose cleaner, disinfectant, and deodorizer designed to kill mold and odor-causing bacteria.

It is bleach-free and helps inhibit the growth of mildew and mold when used as directed.

Soda Blasting

Soda blasting is one of the most effective professional methods for crawl space mold removal.

This process uses a non-toxic blasting material that removes mold from wood surfaces and penetrates grooves and pores where mold spores may be hiding. Soda blasting helps clean the wood more thoroughly than surface wiping alone.

It is commonly used on:

Floor joists
Subflooring
Wooden support beams

Soda blasting is especially helpful when mold growth is widespread across structural wood framing.

Learn more about soda blasting: Crawl Space Mold Removal

Wood Replacement

In severe cases, mold and moisture can damage crawl space wood beyond repair. Prolonged exposure to high humidity or standing water can weaken floor joists, beams, subflooring, and other structural components.

Signs of severe wood damage include:

Soft or rotting wood
Sagging floors
Crumbling or flaking wood
Structural movement

If the wood can no longer safely support the home, damaged sections may need to be replaced before moisture control systems are installed. After repairs are completed, encapsulation and dehumidification can help protect the new wood from future moisture damage.

Schedule FREE Inspection

Why Mold Often Comes Back

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is treating only the visible mold. Mold is usually a symptom of excess moisture, not the root problem itself.

Mold can return after cleaning if the crawl space still has:

Standing water
High humidity
Open vents
Poor drainage
Condensation
Groundwater intrusion

Long-term mold prevention focuses on controlling moisture under the home.

Long-Term Crawl Space Mold Prevention

Crawl Space Encapsulation

Encapsulation seals the crawl space off from outside humidity and ground moisture.

A properly encapsulated crawl space typically includes:

A heavy-duty vapor barrier across the floors, walls, and piers
Sealed crawl space vents
Drainage systems when needed
Humidity control

At Frontier, we often install the CleanSpace crawl space encapsulation system. Unlike thin plastic vapor barriers commonly found in crawl spaces, CleanSpace is a thick reinforced liner designed to resist tearing and create a cleaner, drier environment beneath the home.

Encapsulation can help:

Reduce mold growth
Lower humidity
Improve indoor air quality
Reduce musty odors
Protect wood framing
Improve energy efficiency
Discourage pests

Crawl Space Drainage Systems

If water is entering the crawl space, encapsulation alone may not be enough.

Many homes throughout Middle Tennessee, Southern Kentucky, and Northern Alabama experience crawl space moisture because of:

Heavy rainfall
Clay soils
Hydrostatic pressure
Poor exterior drainage

Drainage systems collect water around the crawl space perimeter and direct it toward a sump pump system.

At Frontier, this often includes systems like:

Perimeter drainage systems
TripleSafe® sump pumps
IceGuard® discharge protection
LawnScape® drainage outlets

These systems help remove water before it can contribute to mold growth and humidity problems.

Crawl Space Dehumidifiers

Even after moisture intrusion is addressed, humidity control remains important in Southern climates.

A crawl space dehumidifier helps maintain healthier humidity levels year-round. Ideally, crawl space humidity should remain below 60% relative humidity to discourage mold growth.

Unlike small portable household dehumidifiers, systems like the SaniDry Sedona are designed specifically for crawl spaces and basements and can operate continuously in demanding environments.

Should You Remove Crawl Space Mold Yourself?

Homeowners may sometimes clean small surface-level mold areas. However, widespread mold growth or recurring mold often indicates a larger moisture issue that should be professionally evaluated.

A professional crawl space inspection can help determine:

Where moisture is entering
Whether drainage is needed
If wood damage has occurred
Whether humidity levels are too high
What long-term solutions may help prevent mold from returning

Protect Your Crawl Space From Mold

Crawl space mold is usually a sign of excess moisture beneath your home. Cleaning visible mold without fixing the source of the moisture often leads to recurring problems.

Long-term crawl space mold prevention typically involves:

Moisture control
Drainage solutions
Encapsulation
Humidity management

If you’ve noticed mold, musty odors, standing water, or high humidity in your crawl space, Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair offers free crawl space inspections across Middle Tennessee, Southern Kentucky, and Northern Alabama.

Our team can help identify the source of the problem and recommend solutions designed for long-term moisture control and protection.

Schedule FREE Inspection

Frequently Asked Questions About Crawl Space Mold

What causes mold in a crawl space?

Crawl space mold is usually caused by excess moisture. Common causes include high humidity, standing water, groundwater intrusion, poor drainage, condensation, and vented crawl spaces that allow humid outdoor air inside.

Will bleach kill crawl space mold?

Bleach may temporarily clean surface mold, but it usually does not solve the moisture issue causing the mold. If humidity and moisture remain high, mold often returns.

Can a dehumidifier get rid of crawl space mold?

A dehumidifier can help lower humidity levels and discourage mold growth, but it may not fully solve the problem if water intrusion or outside humidity is still entering the crawl space.

What is the best way to prevent crawl space mold?

Long-term mold prevention usually involves controlling moisture under the home through encapsulation, drainage systems, sump pumps, and crawl space dehumidifiers.

Can mold damage crawl space wood?

Yes. Over time, excess moisture and mold can weaken floor joists, beams, subflooring, and other wooden structural components. Severe damage may require wood replacement or structural reinforcement.

Allergies or Crawl Space Mold? What Your Home Could Be Telling You

2026-05-12T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

If your “allergies” seem worse inside your home, especially alongside musty odors, humidity, or a cat pee-like smell, your crawl space could be part of the problem. Moisture underneath the home can lead to mold growth, and that air doesn’t always stay contained below the floors. In humid Southern climates like Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama, crawl space moisture problems are incredibly common. Signs like damp insulation, condensation, or musty smells often point to excess moisture below the home.

Schedule FREE Inspection

Maybe your nose feels stuffed up every morning. Maybe your throat feels scratchy when you wake up. Or maybe there’s a damp smell in the house that never completely disappears, no matter how clean everything looks.

Most homeowners assume it’s seasonal allergies. And sometimes it is.

But in many homes across Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama, the real issue is hiding beneath the house.

The crawl space.

It’s easy to forget about because you rarely see it. But when moisture builds up below a home, it can affect much more than the structure itself. That damp environment can lead to mold growth, musty odors, and air quality issues that homeowners feel every day without realizing where they’re coming from.

Why Mold Symptoms Feel Like Allergies

Crawl space mold doesn’t always cause dramatic warning signs right away. Most of the time, homeowners first notice symptoms that feel completely normal for allergy season.

Congestion. Watery eyes. Sneezing. Coughing.

The overlap is what makes it difficult to identify.

Seasonal allergies usually follow a pattern. They flare up when pollen counts rise or after spending time outdoors. You might notice symptoms after mowing the yard or walking outside on a windy spring day.

Moisture-related issues inside a home tend to behave differently.

A lot of homeowners start realizing:

They feel worse at home than anywhere else
Symptoms seem stronger downstairs
The house feels humid even when the thermostat is comfortable
They wake up congested in the morning, then improve later in the day

Sometimes the biggest clue isn’t physical symptoms at all.

It’s the smell.

That earthy, damp odor that homeowners can never fully get rid of.

People describe it differently all the time. Some say it smells like wet wood. Others compare it to an old basement or damp soil after rain. Whatever the description, it usually points to one thing: moisture.

And moisture below a home rarely stays isolated to the crawl space.

Your Crawl Space Impacts the Air Upstairs

Most people think of the crawl space as separate from the rooms they live in.

In reality, your home constantly moves air upward. As air rises and escapes through the upper levels of the home, it pulls replacement air from below, including the crawl space.

So if the crawl space is damp, humid, or moldy, those conditions can influence the air circulating throughout the home.

That’s why homeowners are often surprised to learn that a crawl space problem can show up as:

Persistent indoor odors
Humidity issues
Increased allergy-like symptoms
Rooms that feel uncomfortable even with the HVAC running

The crawl space may be out of sight, but it’s still connected to the rest of the house.

Signs Your Crawl Space May Have a Moisture Problem

You don’t need standing water underneath your home for mold to become an issue.

In fact, many crawl spaces with serious humidity problems never fully flood.

Instead, homeowners notice smaller warning signs over time.

Insulation starts falling because it absorbed moisture and became heavy. Pipes begin sweating during warm weather. The air underneath the house feels damp. Wooden floor joists may look darker than normal or develop staining.

Sometimes homeowners only discover the issue after going into the crawl space for something unrelated.

Other times, the smell inside the house is what finally pushes them to investigate.

Common signs include:

A musty odor that lingers indoors
Condensation on ductwork or pipes
Damp or muddy soil
Visible mold or staining
Sagging insulation
High humidity in the home

And in the South, these problems are incredibly common.

To learn more about how humidity rises in your crawl space, visit: What Causes Humidity in a Crawl Space

Why Crawl Space Mold Happens So Often in the South

Homes throughout Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama deal with a combination of humidity, rainfall, and clay-heavy soil that naturally holds moisture around foundations.

Add traditional crawl space vents into the mix, and it creates the perfect environment for moisture problems.

A lot of homeowners still assume vents help dry out a crawl space. In humid climates, they often do the opposite.

Warm outdoor air enters through the vents and raises the relative humidity below the home. As moisture levels climb, the crawl space becomes the perfect environment for condensation and mold growth.

Ground moisture also plays a major role. Even when there’s no visible water intrusion, moisture naturally rises from the soil below the home every day. Without proper protection, that moisture continues feeding humidity underneath the house year-round.

That’s why mold is rarely the actual starting point.

The real issue is moisture.

To learn more about why mold grows in your crawl space, visit: Why You Have Mold in Your Crawl Space in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama

What Homeowners Should Pay Attention To

If your house constantly smells damp or allergy symptoms feel worse indoors, it’s worth taking a closer look underneath the home.

Start by paying attention to patterns.

Do symptoms improve after leaving the house for a while? Does the first floor feel stuffier than upstairs? Is there a room that always seems more humid than the others?

Then look for physical signs of moisture:

Damp insulation
Condensation
Visible staining
Torn vapor barriers
Soft soil
Humid air in the crawl space

Even small issues can point toward a larger moisture problem developing below the home.

Summary

Not every cough or sneeze means there’s mold in your crawl space.

But if indoor symptoms, musty odors, and humidity seem connected, your home may be trying to tell you something.

A crawl space affects more than most homeowners realize. And when moisture is allowed to build up underneath a home, the effects often show up upstairs long before homeowners ever see visible damage below.

Sometimes the problem isn’t what’s floating around outside.

It’s the damp air slowly moving up from underneath your floors.

Schedule FREE Inspection

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my house smell like cat pee even though I don’t have cats?

Some crawl space moisture and mold problems create strong ammonia-like odors that homeowners often compare to cat urine. If the smell keeps coming back with no clear source inside the home, moisture underneath the house could be contributing to it.

How do I know if it’s allergies or crawl space mold?

Seasonal allergies usually feel worse outdoors during high pollen days. Crawl space mold symptoms often feel worse indoors, especially on the first floor or after spending long periods at home.

Can mold grow in a crawl space without standing water?

Yes. High humidity, condensation, and moisture rising from the soil can all create conditions for mold growth, even if the crawl space never floods.

What are the signs of moisture problems in a crawl space?

Common warning signs include musty odors, damp or fallen insulation, condensation on pipes or ductwork, humid air, soft soil, or visible staining and mold growth.

What should homeowners do if they suspect crawl space mold?

Start by checking for odors, humidity, and visible signs of moisture underneath the home. A professional crawl space inspection can help identify whether mold, humidity, or water intrusion is contributing to the problem.

Why You Have Mold in Your Crawl Space in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama

2026-05-06T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

Mold in a crawl space is caused by moisture, humidity above 60%, and poor airflow. In Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky, humid air, clay soil, and vented crawl spaces make this a common problem. Long-term control comes from reducing moisture and sealing the space.

Schedule FREE Inspection

You Probably Didn’t Think About Your Crawl Space… Until Now

You might not think about your crawl space until something feels… off.

Often, it starts with a damp, musty smell that won’t go away even after cleaning the house, lighting a candle, or clearing out that questionable spinach from the fridge. Homeowners have also described a cat pee smell, even when they don’t own animals.

At the end of your rope, you might turn to your crawl space, where up to 60% of the air on your first floor is coming from.

What Causes Mold in a Crawl Space?

Mold in a crawl space is usually caused by:

High humidity (above 60%)
Moisture rising from the ground
Humid air entering through vents
Water leaks or poor drainage
Condensation on cooler surfaces

When these conditions stick around, mold has everything it needs to grow.

Why Mold in Crawl Spaces Is So Common in Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky

If you live in this region, your home is already dealing with:

Heavy humidity most of the year
45–55 inches of annual rainfall
Clay soil that holds moisture
Older construction with vented crawl spaces

Should Crawl Space Vents Be Open or Closed?

In humid climates like Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky, crawl space vents should typically be closed.

In the summer, open vents pull humid air into the crawl space, raising the relative humidity of the air.
In the winter, incoming air cools and creates condensation, adding moisture to the space.

That moisture feeds mold growth.

Quick Check: Do You Have Crawl Space Mold?

Your home smells musty
You see discoloration on wood or insulation
Allergies feel worse indoors
You’ve had water or moisture issues

If any of these sound familiar, your crawl space may have mold.

What Mold in a Crawl Space Looks Like

Patchy or fuzzy growth
Black, white, or green discoloration
Spreading or changing over time

Dirt stays flat. Mold changes.

Is Mold in a Crawl Space Dangerous?

Mold in a crawl space can affect indoor air quality and your home over time.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Environmental Protection Agency recommend addressing indoor mold growth due to its impact on air quality.

Mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours when moisture is present.

Over time, it can:

Affect respiratory health
Contribute to wood rot
Lower property value

Why Mold Keeps Coming Back in Crawl Spaces

Mold comes back when moisture is still present.

Common reasons include:

Humid air still entering the space
Ground moisture not sealed off
No humidity control

Cleaning the surface removes visible mold, but it doesn’t change the environment.

Learn more about crawl space mold and mildew problems:
https://www.frontierbasementsystems.com/crawl-space-repair/crawl-space-problems/crawl-space-mold-mildew-problems.html

What Happens to Mold When Humidity Is Reduced?

When humidity drops below 60%:

Mold stops actively growing
Existing mold becomes dormant

If moisture returns, mold growth can start again.

Why DIY Crawl Space Mold Removal Doesn’t Last

DIY mold removal often misses:

Moisture in the air
Moisture coming from the ground
Mold in hidden areas

Without fixing those, mold returns.

Professional crawl space mold removal often includes MoldX treatments or soda blasting to fully remove growth from surfaces.

How to Get Rid of Mold in a Crawl Space (Long-Term)

Long-term crawl space mold removal focuses on controlling moisture and humidity.

Crawl Space Encapsulation
- Encapsulation seals the crawl space from outside air and ground moisture.
Drainage Matting
- Moves water under the liner instead of letting it sit.
Sump Pump Systems
- Systems like TripleSafe remove water from the crawl space, while IceGuard and LawnScape help discharge it away from the home.
Dehumidification
- A system like the SaniDry Sedona keeps humidity below mold-friendly levels.
Mold Removal Treatments
- MoldX and soda blasting remove existing mold before the space is sealed.

Learn more about crawl space mold removal:
https://www.frontierbasementsystems.com/crawl-space-repair/crawl-space-repair-solutions/crawl-space-mold-removal.html

Bottom Line

Mold in your crawl space is almost always tied to moisture.

In Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky, the combination of humidity, rainfall, and vented crawl spaces makes this a common issue.

When moisture and humidity are controlled, mold stops having the conditions it needs to grow.

Schedule FREE Inspection

FAQ

Can I Stay in My Home with Crawl Space Mold?

Yes, but it can affect indoor air quality. Addressing it early helps prevent larger issues.

How Much Does Crawl Space Mold Removal Cost?

Costs vary based on the size of the crawl space and the severity of the issue.

Does Crawl Space Encapsulation Prevent Mold?

Encapsulation helps prevent mold by controlling moisture and humidity.

Can Mold Come Back After Removal?

Yes, if moisture is still present.

How Fast Does Mold Grow in a Crawl Space?

Mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours when moisture is present.

Will Mold Be Covered by Insurance?

Most policies do not cover mold caused by long-term moisture issues.

How CleanSpace is Different from Traditional Vapor Barrier

2026-04-27T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

A traditional vapor barrier is a thin plastic sheet placed on the crawl space floor to help slow moisture from the ground. It is often not sealed, easily damaged, and does not address humidity or air movement, which are the main causes of crawl space problems in our region.

CleanSpace is a thicker, more durable liner installed as part of a full encapsulation system. It is sealed at the seams, extended up the walls, and paired with drainage, a sump pump if needed, and a dehumidifier. This approach is designed to control moisture, humidity, and air movement together, helping protect your crawl space and the home above it long term.

Schedule Your Free Inspection

Why This Matters for Homeowners

If you’ve ever looked into your crawl space and seen plastic on the ground, you might assume your home is protected. In reality, many crawl spaces with vapor barriers still struggle with moisture, mold, and musty odors.

The difference comes down to three things:

The material being used
How it’s installed
Whether it’s part of a complete system

How Is the Material Different?

In many homes across Middle Tennessee, Southwest Kentucky, and Northern Alabama, builders install a 6-mil vapor barrier. This material is thin, similar to a heavy trash bag, and is prone to tearing, shifting, and breaking down over time.

Once damaged, it no longer provides consistent protection.

CleanSpace is designed and built differently.

It uses a 20 mil thick liner, more comparable to a durable pool liner than household plastic. The material is engineered with:

Multiple layers for flexibility and strength
Polyester cord reinforcement for tear resistance
A bright white finish that improves visibility in the crawl space
An antimicrobial additive to prevent mold growth on the liner itself

This durability allows it to stay intact even in high-traffic service areas and over uneven ground.

How Is Installation Different?

Traditional vapor barriers are typically:

Laid loosely across the floor
Left open at the edges
Not sealed to walls or structural components

This leaves gaps where moisture can still enter the space. In vented crawl spaces, humid outside air continues to move in, making the barrier far less effective.

CleanSpace installation is more comprehensive.

The system includes:

Drainage matting installed along the floor to protect the liner and allow water to move beneath it
A liner that is overlapped and sealed at seams
Coverage that extends up the crawl space walls
Wrapping around piers and structural elements

A small gap is intentionally left at the top of the wall to allow access for pest control treatments.

Instead of simply covering the ground, CleanSpace creates a sealed environment that limits moisture intrusion from multiple directions.

How Is the System Different?

This is where the biggest difference shows up.

A traditional crawl space setup often includes:

Open vents
Fiberglass insulation between floor joists
A thin vapor barrier on the ground

Over time, this combination can lead to:

Increased humidity from outside air entering through vents
Condensation forming on cold surfaces
Insulation absorbing moisture and falling down
Persistent damp conditions that affect the home above

Learn more about crawl space humidity: What Causes Humidity in a Crawl Space?

CleanSpace is part of a full crawl space encapsulation system designed to address all of these issues.

When a Frontier design specialist evaluates a crawl space, they look for signs of:

Standing water
Water intrusion
High humidity levels
Structural concerns

Based on what’s found, the system may include:

A drainage system to collect groundwater
A TripleSafe sump pump to remove water from the space
Sealed vents using insulation panels
An EverLast crawl space door to close off the entry
A SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier to control humidity long-term

Each component works together to manage moisture throughout the space.

Summary

A traditional vapor barrier is a basic layer of protection. It can help slow moisture, but it does not address the bigger issues affecting crawl spaces in our region.

CleanSpace is designed as part of a system that:

Seals the space
Controls humidity
Manages water intrusion
Protects the structure of your home

For homeowners dealing with musty odors, moisture, or insulation problems, the difference is often noticeable not just in the crawl space, but throughout the home.

If you’re not sure what’s happening under your home, a professional inspection is the best place to start.

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair offers free, no-obligation inspections across Middle Tennessee, Southwest Kentucky, and Northern Alabama.

We’ll take a look at your crawl space, explain what we see, and recommend solutions that make sense for your home.

Schedule Your Free Inspection

FAQ

Can mold grow on a traditional vapor barrier?

Yes. While the plastic itself doesn’t feed mold, moisture can collect on its surface. Dirt, dust, and organic debris can allow mold to grow in those conditions.

Does CleanSpace prevent all moisture?

CleanSpace helps control moisture, but it works best as part of a full system that includes drainage and dehumidification when needed.

Is encapsulation worth it?

For homes experiencing moisture issues, encapsulation can improve air quality, protect structural components, and reduce long-term repair needs.

How do I know if my crawl space has a problem?

Common signs include:

Musty odors inside the home
High indoor humidity
Sagging or falling insulation
Visible moisture or standing water

Why Your Crawl Space Feels Damp in the Spring

2026-04-20T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

Spring brings blooming flowers and warmer temperatures, but it also brings a common homeowner headache: a damp, musty-smelling crawl space. If you’ve noticed a heavy or "wet" feeling in the air as soon as the weather warms up, you aren't alone.

Understanding why this happens is the first step toward protecting your home’s structural integrity and your family’s indoor air quality.

Schedule Your Free Inspection

1. What Is the “Cold Surface” Problem (Condensation)?

The primary reason crawl spaces feel damp in the spring is condensation. During the winter, the ground and the concrete walls of your crawl space become very cold. As spring arrives, the air outside warms up and carries significantly more moisture (humidity).

When that warm, moist spring air enters through crawl space vents, it hits the cold surfaces of the concrete, wooden joists, and metal pipes. Just like a cold soda can "sweat" on a hot summer day, the air reaches its dew point and releases moisture directly onto your home’s structure. This constant condensation creates the perfect breeding ground for mold and wood rot.

2. How Do Rising Spring Water Tables Affect Your Crawl Space?

Spring is often the wettest season of the year. Frequent heavy rains saturate the soil around your foundation. This creates hydrostatic pressure, which is the force of water pushing against your crawl space walls. Because concrete is porous, water can be pushed through the walls in the form of vapor or even seepage through small cracks.

If your home lacks a proper drainage system, this moisture gets trapped under the house, lingering long after the rain has stopped and contributing to that heavy, damp feeling.

3. What Is the Stack Effect and How Does It Impact Your Home?

Your home essentially functions like a giant chimney due to a phenomenon known as the "stack effect." As warm air rises and escapes through the attic and upper floors, it creates a vacuum in the lower levels of the house. According to Green Building Advisor, this pressure imbalance pulls air upward from the crawl space or basement and into your primary living areas.

In the spring, when the crawl space is often saturated with moisture from groundwater and condensation, the stack effect carries that dampness and its associated musty odors directly into your home. This process is so significant that experts estimate up to 50% of the air you breathe on the first floor of your home actually originates in the crawl space or basement.

4. Are Open Crawl Space Vents Letting Moisture In?

For decades, the standard building code required crawl space vents to "air out" the space. However, modern building science has proven the opposite: open vents actually worsen dampness. In the spring, these vents act as an open door for humid air. By allowing outside air to circulate freely, you are essentially inviting the humidity to settle under your home.

How Can You Fix a Damp Crawl Space in the Spring?

To stop the cycle of dampness, you must control the environment. Frontier Foundations & Crawl Space Repair recommends a three-pronged approach:

Encapsulation: Seal the crawl space from the earth and outside air using a heavy-duty vapor barrier like CleanSpace. This prevents moisture from the ground and vents from entering.
Water Management: Install an internal drainage system and a sump pump to collect and remove any groundwater before it can evaporate into the air.
Dehumidification: Use a high-capacity, professional-grade dehumidifier like the SaniDry Sedona. Unlike a standard store-bought unit, these are designed specifically for the cooler temperatures of a crawl space and can maintain a consistent relative humidity (usually below 55%) to prevent mold growth.

A damp crawl space in the spring is more than just a nuisance; it is a sign that your home's "foundation" is under stress from humidity and water. By addressing the root causes like condensation, groundwater, and the stack effect, you can ensure a healthier, drier home year-round.

Schedule Your Free Inspection

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair Encourages Homeowners to Act Early During National Foundation Inspection Week

2026-04-14T17:03:23.05Z

Small warning signs inside the home may point to larger structural concerns beneath it

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair is recognizing National Foundation Inspection Week by encouraging homeowners across Middle Tennessee, Southwest Kentucky, and Northern Alabama to schedule routine foundation inspections and learn the early warning signs of structural issues.

What may seem like minor cosmetic problems inside the home, such as a crack in drywall or a sticking door, can often signal deeper foundation concerns. According to Frontier, these early indicators are commonly overlooked, leading to more extensive and costly repairs over time.

“Many homeowners don’t realize that the small changes they’re seeing inside their home can be connected to what’s happening beneath it,” said Operations Manager, Logan Hanson, from Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair. “National Foundation Inspection Week is a great reminder to take those signs seriously and address them early.”

Recognizing the Signs

Foundation problems often show up in subtle ways throughout the home. Common interior warning signs include:

Cracks in drywall or ceilings, especially around doors and windows
Doors and windows that stick or no longer close properly
Uneven or sloping floors
Gaps forming between walls, ceilings, or floors

Exterior signs may include:

Cracks in foundation walls, brickwork, or masonry
Chimneys leaning or pulling away from the home
Visible gaps around exterior doors and windows

What Causes Foundation Issues?

Foundation damage is typically caused by shifting conditions in the soil surrounding a home. In this region, factors such as expansive clay soil, heavy rainfall, poor drainage, and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles can all contribute to foundation movement. Tree roots and plumbing leaks can also disrupt soil stability over time.

The Cost of Waiting

Ignoring these early warning signs can lead to more significant structural damage. What could begin as a manageable repair may escalate into a complex project involving extensive stabilization or even full foundation replacement.

“Early detection is key,” Hanson added. “A professional inspection can identify the root cause and provide a clear path forward before the problem worsens.”

Take Action This Week

In honor of National Foundation Inspection Week, Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair is offering free inspections to help homeowners better understand the condition of their foundation and take proactive steps toward protecting their home.

By addressing issues early, homeowners can preserve their property value, maintain structural integrity, and avoid unexpected repair costs.

About Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair
Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair specializes in foundation repair, crawl space encapsulation, basement waterproofing, and concrete repair. Serving homeowners across Middle Tennessee, Southwest Kentucky, and Northern Alabama, Frontier is committed to delivering practical, long-term solutions that protect homes from the ground up.

Can I Use a Fan to Control Crawl Space Humidity?

2026-04-15T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

Fans don’t remove moisture; they just move it. In humid climates like Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky, crawl space fans often make the problem worse by bringing in more moisture. The most reliable way to control humidity is to seal the space and use a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air.

Schedule Your Free Inspection

Key Terms

Relative Humidity (RH): The amount of moisture in the air compared to how much it can hold.

Encapsulation: Sealing the crawl space with a vapor barrier along the floor and walls to keep moisture out.

Condensation: When warm, moist air hits a cooler surface and turns into water droplets

Why Crawl Space Humidity Keeps Coming Back

For a long time, vented crawl spaces were considered the standard. The idea was that outside air would move through the space, dry it out, and prevent moisture from building up.

If you’ve had moisture issues under your home, it makes sense that a fan feels like the next step. It seems like an upgrade to ventilation. More airflow should help dry things out.

That approach works in some climates, but not in the South.

In Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky, the outside air already holds a high amount of moisture. Instead of drying the space, you are constantly introducing humidity into it. The result is a crawl space that never fully dries out, no matter how much air is moving through it.

Why Fans Don’t Solve the Problem

Fans are designed to circulate air, not remove moisture from it

A fan only helps with humidity if it replaces moist air with dry air. In consistently humid climates, that exchange does not happen. The air being pulled in is already full of moisture.

That leaves you with two outcomes:

You are moving humid air around the crawl space
Or you are pulling in more humid air from outside

Either way, the moisture is still there.

This is why homeowners install fans and still deal with musty smells, mold growth, or damp conditions. The fan is not fixing the source of the problem.

How Outside Air Impacts Humidity

Relative humidity (RH) changes based on temperature, which is where crawl spaces run into issues.

Warm air can hold more moisture than cold air. When warm, humid air enters a cooler crawl space, its ability to hold that moisture drops. That excess moisture shows up as higher relative humidity.

In the summer:

Warm, humid air enters the crawl space, cools down, and the RH increases. This leads to moisture buildup

That environment can lead to:

Mold growth
Wood damage
Pest activity
Soft or sagging floors

In the winter:

Cold air enters the crawl space and warms up, which lowers the relative humidity overall. But the space is not dry.

The surfaces in the crawl space, like walls and pipes, are still cold. When warmer air comes into contact with those surfaces, condensation forms. Over time, that moisture builds up and creates the same issues.

Humidity problems do not go away in the winter. They just show up differently

To learn more about crawl space humidity, read "What Causes Humidity in a Crawl Space?"

What Actually Lowers Humidity in a Crawl Space

To lower the humidity, you need to stop moisture from entering the space and remove the moisture that is already there.

Encapsulation does the first part. Crawl space vents are closed and sealed. Drainage matting and a liner that covers the floor and walls of the crawl space are installed to prevent moisture from evaporating up from the ground and coming through the foundation walls.

From there, a dehumidifier handles the rest by pulling moisture out of the air and keeping humidity levels controlled.

At Frontier, we install the SaniDry Sedona Dehumidifier because it is built for crawl space conditions and can maintain consistent humidity levels year-round.

How to Keep Your Crawl Space Dry Long Term

Keeping your crawl space dry is about control, not airflow.

The SaniDry Sedona Dehumidifier is designed to manage humidity without constant attention.

Removes 2.9 liters per kilowatt hour
Built-in humidity sensor for automatic control
No trays or buckets to empty
MERV 8 filter helps capture mold spores, dust, and other particles
Digital controls for easy monitoring
Can be ducted to help reduce noise

When it is paired with encapsulation, the crawl space becomes a controlled environment instead of one that is constantly reacting to outside conditions.

If you are relying on a fan to solve the humidity issue, the issue is likely still there. The air may be moving, but the moisture is not going anywhere.

Summary

Using a fan in your crawl space might feel like a step in the right direction, but it does not address the actual problem. In humid climates, fans often bring in more moisture or circulate the moisture that is already there.

Humidity in a crawl space is driven by outside air, temperature changes, and moisture from the ground. Without stopping those sources and removing moisture from the air, the problem will continue.

Encapsulation paired with a dehumidifier creates a controlled environment under your home. Instead of reacting to seasonal changes, your crawl space stays dry and stable year round.

Schedule Your Free Inspection

FAQ

Do crawl space fans actually work?
Crawl space fans can help in dry climates where outside air has low moisture. In humid areas like Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky, they are usually ineffective because they bring in moist air instead of removing it.

Can a fan make crawl space humidity worse?
Yes. If the outside air is humid, a fan can pull that moisture into the crawl space or circulate the moisture that is already there, increasing overall humidity levels.

What happens if I run a fan with the vents closed?
The fan will mostly move the same humid air around the crawl space. Without a way to remove moisture, humidity levels will stay the same or continue to build.

What is the best way to lower crawl space humidity?
The most effective solution is to fully encapsulate the crawl space and install a dehumidifier. This stops moisture from entering and removes moisture from the air to keep levels controlled long term.

What Causes Humidity in a Crawl Space?

2026-04-06T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

Crawl space humidity is caused by moisture entering from the ground, outside air, and foundation walls.

Warm air cools in the crawl space and raises relative humidity. Moisture also evaporates from the soil and can be pushed through walls by hydrostatic pressure.

As humidity rises, it creates conditions for mold, wood damage, and poor air quality.

The most effective way to control crawl space humidity is to seal the space, manage water intrusion, and control the air with a dehumidifier.

Schedule Your Free Inspection

Humidity in your crawl space affects more than just the space itself. It impacts your floors, your air quality, and how your home feels every day.

If something feels off (musty smells, soft spots, or higher energy bills), moisture below your home is often part of the problem.

Key Terms

Relative Humidity (RH):
Relative humidity is the amount of moisture in the air compared to how much moisture the air can hold at a given temperature. When RH rises, the air is closer to saturation, and moisture accumulates on surfaces.

Hydrostatic Pressure:
Pressure created by water in the soil surrounding your foundation. When the ground becomes saturated, this pressure builds and can push water through porous materials like concrete block walls.

How is Humidity Measured in the Crawl Space?

Waterproofing professionals measure humidity using relative humidity (RH). The National Weather Service defines RH as the amount of water vapor in the air relative to what the air can hold.

Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. That relationship is what drives most crawl space moisture issues.

Why do waterproofing professionals use relative humidity?

Relative humidity tells you how the moisture in the air can affect the space.

It helps determine:

If wood framing will absorb moisture
If mold can grow
If pests will be attracted to the environment

The Environmental Protection Agency recommends keeping indoor RH below 60% to reduce the risk of mold, wood rot, and pests.

How Does Outside Air Increase Relative Humidity?

Summer

During the summer, outside air is warm and carries a high amount of moisture. When that air enters the crawl space, it cools down.

As the temperature drops, the air can’t hold the same amount of moisture. Relative humidity rises, and that moisture settles on surfaces like floor joists, insulation, and ductwork.

This is why vented crawl spaces tend to feel damp in warmer months.

Winter

In the winter, the outside air is colder and holds less moisture. When it enters the crawl space, it warms slightly.

The issue shows up when that air meets colder surfaces like pipes and foundation walls. Moisture condenses on those surfaces and collects over time. As more air cycles through the space, more moisture is introduced.

To learn more about how crawl space conditions in the winter, visit: "Why Winter Crawl Space Checks Matter."

Where is Water Coming From?

Crawl space humidity usually builds from multiple sources working together.

Ground Moisture

In areas like Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky, the soil often holds a high amount of moisture.

That moisture evaporates from the ground and rises into the crawl space air. Without proper sealing, this becomes a constant source of humidity.

Moisture Through Foundation Walls

Foundation walls, especially concrete block, are porous.

When water builds up around the outside of the home, hydrostatic pressure pushes moisture through the walls. This often shows up as efflorescence, a white, chalky residue left behind as water evaporates.

Air Leaks and Openings

Air enters the crawl space through:

Open vents
Poorly sealed crawl space doors
Gaps around pipes and HVAC penetrations

Every opening allows outside air, and the moisture it carries, to enter the space.

How do I Prevent Crawl Space Humidity?

The most effective approach is to address all moisture sources together.

At Frontier, that typically looks like:

Inspection: Identifying signs of water intrusion, like efflorescence or standing water
Drainage (if needed): Installing a system and sump pump to manage groundwater
Air sealing:

SilverGlo panels to seal vents
RimJoist insulation to close off air leaks
An EverLast crawl space door to create a tight seal at the entry point and prevent outside air from entering

Moisture barrier:

Drainage matting to allow water movement
CleanSpace 20 mil liner on floors, walls, and piers

Humidity control:

A SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier to keep RH at a controlled level

This turns the crawl space into a controlled environment instead of a source of moisture.

Summary

Crawl space humidity builds from a combination of:

Moist air entering from outside
Temperature changes that raise relative humidity
Moisture evaporating from the ground
Water moving through foundation walls
Air leaks that keep the cycle going

Controlling humidity comes down to sealing the space, managing water, and regulating the air.

Dry. Stable. Healthy.
That’s what your crawl space should support.

Schedule Your Free Inspection

FAQ

What is a good humidity level for a crawl space?
Below 60% RH, with many systems targeting closer to 50–55%.

Do crawl space vents help with humidity?
In most climates, vents allow humid air into the space and increase moisture levels. Frontier recommends sealing crawl space vents.

Is a vapor barrier enough?
A basic vapor barrier helps with ground moisture, but full encapsulation and dehumidification are needed for consistent control.

Can crawl space humidity affect the rest of the home?
Yes. Air from the crawl space moves into the living space, impacting comfort, air quality, and energy use.

Frontier Foundation and Crawl Space Repair Adds Concrete Pouring Service

2026-03-30T11:14:05.05Z

Frontier Foundation and Crawl Space Repair Adds Concrete Pouring Service

Frontier Foundation and Crawl Space Repair is expanding its service offerings to include professional concrete pouring for homeowners across Middle Tennessee, Southwest Kentucky, and Northern Alabama, beginning March 31^st, 2026.

Frontier has helped thousands of homeowners lift, level, and seal their concrete. However, when concrete is too damaged for repair, replacement is the only long-term solution. Until now, homeowners needing new concrete had to look elsewhere.

By adding concrete pouring, Frontier can now provide a complete solution for damaged concrete, from repair to full replacement. This new service includes poured concrete for driveways, patios, walkways, and other residential surfaces, helping homeowners restore both the safety and appearance of their property.

“We’ve seen a growing need in our community for concrete pouring services,” said COO Dustin Gebers. “In the past, we’ve had to turn homeowners away if their concrete couldn’t be repaired, and that never sat right with us. We want to take that stress off homeowners by offering a complete solution they can trust.”

With years of experience in foundation repair, waterproofing, and concrete solutions, Frontier is committed to providing long-term, reliable results for homeowners across the region.

Homeowners dealing with cracked, broken, or failing concrete can now rely on Frontier for both repair and replacement solutions, all from one trusted team.

To learn more or schedule a free estimate, visit FrontierConcreteCare.com or call 1-615-395-6722.

Why Water Pooled on Your Driveway Means More Than a Cosmetic Issue

2026-03-23T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

We’ve all seen it: after a heavy rainstorm, a stubborn puddle lingers on the driveway long after the sun comes out. While it may seem like a minor eyesore or a temporary inconvenience for your shoes, standing water is often a sign of deeper structural problems. If water isn't draining off your concrete, it’s likely working against it. Here is why those puddles are a warning sign you shouldn't ignore.

Schedule Your Free Inspection

1. Soil Washout and Voids

Water pools on concrete for one primary reason: the slab is no longer level. But why did it move?

Heavy rain events can lead to soil washout. When water finds a path underneath your driveway or sidewalk, it carries the supporting soil away with it. This creates voids (empty pockets) under the concrete. Without a solid foundation, the heavy concrete slab eventually cracks and sinks into the hole.

The puddle you see on top is simply filling the low spot created by the missing soil underneath. If left unaddressed, the erosion will continue, leading to larger cracks and eventually a complete collapse of the slab.

2. The Hidden Damage of the Freeze-Thaw Cycle

Concrete is more like a sponge than a rock; it is full of tiny pores. When water pools on your driveway, the concrete absorbs that moisture.

In the winter, this becomes a major problem. When that absorbed water freezes, it expands by about 9%. This internal pressure causes the surface of your concrete to flake, peel, or pop. This is known as spalling or chipping. What starts as a small puddle in the spring can become a crumbly, pitted mess by the following winter.

3. The Salt Trap

To combat ice formation in puddles, many homeowners reach for rock salt. While it clears the ice, it damages your concrete. Salt is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts even more water into the concrete's pores. It also accelerates the freeze-thaw cycle by allowing water to freeze at lower temperatures, leading to more frequent expansion and contraction. This chemically-induced stress leads to rapid deterioration and pockmarked driveways.

4. Safety Hazards (Tripping and Slipping)

A driveway that holds water is a liability. In the summer, standing water can grow slick algae or moss. In the winter, it turns into black ice, a nearly invisible layer of frozen puddle that is a leading cause of slip-and-fall injuries. Furthermore, if the pooling is caused by a sunken slab, you now have a trip edge where one piece of concrete is higher than the other.

5. Foundation Warnings

Your driveway is often a buffer for your home. If water is pooling near the edge of your driveway, it may be saturating the ground right next to your foundation. This increases hydrostatic pressure, which is the force of water pushing against your basement or crawl space walls. Over time, the same water pooling on your driveway could end up as a leak in your basement or a crack in your foundation.

The Frontier Solution: Lift, Level, and Seal

The good news is that you don't necessarily need to tear out and replace your entire driveway. At Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, we offer modern, permanent solutions:

PolyLevel®: We inject a high-density polyurethane foam under your sunken slabs. It expands to fill the voids, washes out the "washout" problem, and lifts the concrete back to its original level so water drains away naturally.
NexusPro®: We seal the cracks and joints with a durable, UV-resistant silicone that prevents water from getting under the slab in the first place.
SealantPro®: This penetrating sealer bonds with the concrete on a molecular level, protecting it from water, salt, and the freeze-thaw cycle for years to come.

Stop the Puddles Today

Don't wait for a cosmetic issue to turn into a costly replacement. If you’re seeing standing water on your concrete, contact Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair for a free inspection. We’ll help you protect your home’s value and your family’s safety.

How Do You Test a Sump Pump in Your Crawl Space or Basement?

2026-03-16T00:00:00.05Z

TLDR

You can test your sump pump in just a few minutes using a simple bucket test. Pour a bucket of water into the sump basin and watch for the float switch to rise and activate the pump. The pump should turn on, remove the water, and shut off automatically once the basin empties.

Homeowners should test their sump pump every 3 to 4 months, especially before heavy rain seasons, to ensure the system is ready to protect their crawl space or basement.

If the pump does not start, does not remove the water, or fails to shut off, it may need professional service. Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair offers free inspections across Central Tennessee, Southwest Kentucky, and Northern Alabama to help homeowners keep their waterproofing systems working properly.

Schedule Your Free Inspection

Your sump pump is one of the most important parts of your crawl space encapsulation or basement waterproofing system. It collects groundwater and pumps it safely away from your home before it can cause moisture problems or structural damage.

Like any mechanical system, a sump pump should be tested periodically to make sure it is working properly. Homeowners can easily test their sump pump with a simple bucket of water to confirm the float switch activates the pump and removes water from the basin.

Testing your sump pump only takes a few minutes and helps ensure your waterproofing system is ready before the next heavy rain. Regular checks can give homeowners peace of mind that their crawl space or basement remains protected.

Sump Pump Basics

A sump pump sits inside a basin in your crawl space or basement. Most waterproofing systems include a drainage system that directs groundwater into this basin. When water collects in the basin, a float switch rises with the water level. Once the float reaches a certain point, it triggers the pump to turn on and remove the water.

At Frontier, we often recommend the TripleSafe™ Sump Pump System because it provides multiple layers of protection.

The TripleSafe is a submersible multi-pump system that includes:

A primary pump that handles normal water flow.
A secondary pump that activates if the first pump cannot keep up with heavy water.
A battery backup pump that continues protecting your home if the power goes out.

Once the water is pumped out of the basin, it travels through a discharge pipe that carries it away from your foundation. This pipe usually extends outside to a LawnScape outlet in the yard.

When everything works together properly, water is collected, pumped out, and discharged safely away from your home.

How Often Should You Test?

Homeowners should test their sump pump every 3 to 4 months, especially before the rainy seasons in spring and fall.

Routine testing helps ensure that the pump is ready when the next storm arrives.

During Frontier’s routine maintenance visits every nine months, our service technicians also inspect and test the sump pump to make sure the entire waterproofing system is functioning correctly.

If you have not had your system checked recently, scheduling an inspection can help ensure your home stays protected.

Safety Prep Before You Start

Before testing your sump pump, take a moment to check a few safety items.

First, make sure there is no standing water near the electrical outlet that powers the pump. Electrical components should always remain dry.

Next, remove the pit cover and look inside the basin. Make sure nothing is blocking the float switch, such as debris or loose wires. The float must be able to rise freely to activate the pump.

Once everything looks clear, you are ready to perform a quick test.

Step‑by‑Step Bucket Test

Testing your sump pump only takes a few minutes using a bucket of water.

Step 1: Confirm power is on (outlet and breaker).
Step 2: Remove the pit cover and locate the float.
Step 3: Slowly pour a bucket or two of water into the pit.
Step 4: Watch the float rise and make sure the pump turns on.
Step 5: Listen for smooth operation (no grinding or rattling).
Step 6: Confirm the pump removes the water and then shuts off by itself.
Step 7: Replace the cover and tidy cords.

If the pump activates, removes the water, and shuts off properly, your system is doing exactly what it was designed to do.

Check the Discharge Outside

Your sump pump does not just move water out of the basin. It must also move that water safely away from your home.

Frontier often routes sump pump discharge lines through IceGuard® protection and out to a LawnScape outlet in the yard. IceGuard helps prevent frozen discharge lines in winter, while the LawnScape outlet allows water to drain safely away from the foundation.

While performing your test, step outside and check the discharge point. Make sure:

Water is visibly flowing out of the outlet
The outlet is not clogged or buried
Water is not draining back toward the foundation wall

Proper discharge ensures that the water your pump removes does not return to your home.

Warning Signs and Next Steps

If something does not seem right during the test, it may be time to have the system inspected.

Common warning signs include:

The pump does not start
The pump runs but does not lower the water level
The pump never shuts off
The breaker trips repeatedly
The pump smells burnt or overheats

Sump pumps may need to be replaced after 7 to 10 years of use.

Older sump pumps are also more likely to fail. Many pumps begin showing issues after 7 to 10 years of use.

If you notice any of these problems, stop testing and call a professional to inspect the system before the next storm.

Conclusion

Testing your sump pump takes only a few minutes, but it can make a big difference in protecting your home from water damage.

Set a recurring reminder on your calendar every few months to perform a quick bucket test. Regular checks help ensure your waterproofing system is ready when heavy rain arrives.

If you would like help inspecting your sump pump or maintaining your waterproofing system, Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair offers free inspections for homeowners across Central Tennessee, Southwest Kentucky, and Northern Alabama.

Schedule your inspection today and make sure your home is ready for the next storm.

Schedule Your Free Inspection

FAQ

How often should you test a sump pump?
Homeowners should test their sump pump every 3 to 4 months and before major rainy seasons to ensure it activates and removes water properly.

How long do sump pumps last?
Most sump pumps last between 7 and 10 years, depending on usage and maintenance.

What happens if a sump pump fails?
If a sump pump fails, water can collect in a crawl space or basement and potentially lead to moisture damage, mold growth, or structural problems.

Can you test a sump pump without rain?
Yes. A bucket of water poured into the sump basin will simulate rising water levels and activate the pump.

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair Recognized for Ethical Excellence by BBB

2025-11-21T14:39:34.05Z

Frontier Selected for Prestigious 2025 BBB International Torch Awards for Ethics

Joelton, TN (November 19, 2025) - The International Association of Better Business Bureaus (IABBB) selected Frontier as a recipient of the 2025 International Torch Awards for Ethics℠.

Presented annually since 1996, the BBB International Torch Awards for Ethics recognize businesses in North America that demonstrate outstanding dedication to ethical business practices and promote trust in the marketplace.

“The International Torch Awards for Ethics celebrates the most powerful currency in business: trust,” said Rebekah Dopp, IABBB CEO. “These honorees remind us that character and culture are not soft skills; they are the operating system of every great enterprise. When leaders choose transparency, accountability, and purpose, they don’t just strengthen their companies. They elevate the marketplace itself.”

Frontier was selected for its strong commitment to transparency, customer care, and ethical business practices. Their “WOW” service culture is evident from the first phone call to the final inspection, with clear communication, upfront pricing, and homeowner education built into every step. Frontier also protects customer data, honors warranties, and maintains open communication across multiple channels.

“In January, we’ll celebrate 25 years in business, and it’s incredible to see how far a small, family-run company with humble beginnings has come,” said Dustin Gebers, General Manager at Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair. “Earning this award is truly an honor, but the credit belongs to our team. They take on tough, dirty jobs every day, and we couldn’t do any of this without their hard work and dedication. We’re grateful for them above all.”

The finalists and award-winning companies were selected by an independent panel of business and ethics experts: Matt Sitter, CEO, Advantage Foundry Network; Fred Elsberry, former CEO, BBB Atlanta; Kent Noble, Professor, University of Wyoming College of Business–Center for Principle-Based Leadership and Ethics; Robert Reiss, CEO, CEO Forum Group; Robin Day, National Director of Academics, Herzing College (Winnipeg, MB); and Janet Robb, former CEO, BBB Little Rock. Companies were judged on leadership character, company culture, customer transparency, and community impact.

About Frontier Foundation and Crawl Space Repair

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair is a trusted, family-owned company specializing in foundation repair, crawl space solutions, basement waterproofing, and concrete leveling across Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama. With over 20 years of experience and led by licensed general contractors Layne and Judy, Frontier is known for its commitment to fixing unhealthy homes through permanent solutions and exceptional customer service. Their services include wet basements, sagging floors, mold remediation, radon mitigation, and structural repairs.

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair Brings Home Awards from Best of Clarksville and CNLive 2025

2025-10-09T09:11:06.05Z

At CN Live 2025 in Connecticut, Frontier was awarded #1 CleanSpace Dealer, #1 Enerbank Finance Dealer, and #5 Overall Dealer across the entire Contractor Nation network. These awards highlight Frontier’s ongoing commitment to creating healthier, safer homes and setting the standard for quality workmanship nationwide.

CN Live, hosted by Contractor Nation, is the premier event for home improvement professionals. The conference brings together dealers from across the country to collaborate, share innovations, and celebrate achievements within the network. Frontier’s participation reflects its dedication to continuous improvement, customer satisfaction, and forward-thinking service solutions.

Closer to home, Frontier was also named Best Basement Waterproofing Company at the Best of Clarksville 2025 event on October 2, 2025. This recognition, voted on by local residents, represents the trust and appreciation of the Clarksville community.

"It's a great honor to receive so many awards this year," said Dustin Geber, Chief Operations Officer for Frontier. "All credit goes to our team, from the person answering the phone to the team member putting the products in the ground. They are all focused on making customers happy and doing everything with excellence as they live out our company values. I couldn't be more proud! Thank you to everyone who voted for us and trusted us to care for your home."

About Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair is a family-owned and operated company based in Joelton, Tennessee, serving Central Tennessee, Southwestern Kentucky, and Northern Alabama. Specializing in basement waterproofing, crawl space repair, foundation repair, and concrete repair, Frontier is committed to delivering lasting solutions, exceptional service, and supporting the communities it serves.

Basement Waterproofing in Hartsville, TN

2025-08-21T12:23:40.05Z

Frontier installed its WaterGuard XL sub-floor drainage system along the basement perimeter. This system is designed to capture water at its entry point and channel it to a sump pump before it reaches the floor surface. It was paired with the TripleSafe single sump pump system to discharge the water from the basement. This basement had one wall that shared with a crawlspace that was encapsulated. Frontier also installed its StarPipe crawlspace drainage system along that wall inside the crawlspace to direct the water away from the wall. Unfortunately, after the first rain it was found some water intrusion was found coming from the stair landing. Once the landing was removed, we were able to see that the landing was built directly on top of the footer where the WaterGuard XL was not installed. Frontier returned and installed StarPipe to connect the crawlspace drainage system to the WaterGuard XL system, resolving the water intrusion issue.

This combination created a comprehensive and reliable waterproofing solution. After installation, the basement remained completely dry, even during storms. The homeowner was relieved to finally have a dry, healthy basement and peace of mind knowing their investment was protected year-round by a system built with experience and proven performance.

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair Donates Equipment to Support Pleasant View Volunteer Fire Department

2025-06-25T09:00:00.05Z

Pleasant View, TN — Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair is proud to announce the donation of two Hannay 8000 Series Electric-Powered Rewind Reels to the Pleasant View Volunteer Fire Department. Valued at $2,000 each, the total donation amounts to $4,000 in essential firefighting equipment.

This contribution is part of Frontier’s ongoing commitment to supporting local first responders and strengthening community partnerships. The company has proudly partnered with the Pleasant View Volunteer Fire Department in the past and looks forward to continuing that tradition in the years to come.

Frontier Recognized as #1 CleanSpace Dealer and #5 Overall Company

2024-10-07T10:20:02.05Z

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair is proud to announce their remarkable achievements at the 29th CN Live, an annual convention hosted by Contractor Nation. The conference, held this year with approximately 1,400 attendees from more than 500 dealers across the nation, celebrates industry innovation and success in home improvement and repair.

As an Elite Partner within the Contractor Nation network, Frontier was thrilled to attend and connect with fellow leaders and experts in the industry. The company’s dedication to excellence in foundation repair, basement waterproofing, concrete repair, and crawl space repair was emphasized by two prestigious awards received during the event.

Frontier was named #1 CleanSpace Dealer, recognizing Frontier’s unparalleled success in delivering superior crawl space encapsulation systems to homeowners. Frontier was also named the #5 Overall Company in the Contractor Nation network. This award highlights Frontier’s overall commitment to customer satisfaction, quality service, and innovation.

In addition to achieving these prestigious awards, several members of the Frontier team were chosen to speak in informative sessions, networking with and educating other contractors on subjects such as real estate sales and recruiting. Julian Tchernev, Recruiter at Frontier, was recognized for his Recruiting Lead & Cost Tracker, a new tool that would simplify the recruiting process.

"We are incredibly honored to receive these awards," said Dustin Gebers, General Manager of Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair. "This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We are proud to serve our community with top-tier solutions that ensure safer and healthier homes."

CN Live, sponsored by Contractor Nation, is the premier event for home improvement dealers, providing an opportunity to exchange knowledge, celebrate achievements, and inspire continued growth across the network.

For more information on Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair and their award-winning services, visit www.trustfrontier.com.

Frontier Wins BBB Torch Award for Ethics For The 2nd Time!

2024-04-25T12:31:11.05Z

For the second time, Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair received the BBB Torch Award for Ethics! Presented by the Better Business Bureau of Middle Tennessee & Southern Kentucky, the BBB Torch Award for Ethics “honors marketplace role models who have set extraordinary examples within (their) community.” Additional finalists inside the large category include United Structural Systems (USS) and All-American Pest Control Inc. Frontier feels honored to be chosen amongst such highly esteemed businesses.

Established in 1998, the BBB Torch Awards, as well as the Better Business Bureau's mission, are to foster trust within the marketplace. Torch Awards for Ethics commends organizations demonstrating integrity and a steadfast dedication to ethical conduct across all facets of their operations. By celebrating companies like Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, the BBB Torch Award for Ethics inspires businesses of all sizes to prioritize ethical practices, thereby safeguarding the integrity of our market.

To win this award, companies were asked to demonstrate their abilities in four categories: character, culture, customers, and community. As a family-owned business in a highly competitive market, it is of utmost importance for Frontier to lead with integrity and exemplify the very values that this company was founded upon; Faith, Respect, Wow Service, Passion, Loyalty, Integrity, Excellence, and Determination. Together, these serve as a guiding light for all employees, aligning their efforts towards a common goal. Frontier makes it a priority to actively engage with the community, encourage employee involvement in community service, and contribute to community programs.

“Frontier's application stood out because of how much you do for your community and everything your organization does to set up your employees for success!” said James Horn, Executive Director of the BBB serving Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky.

At Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, we strive to provide each and every customer with “WOW!” service, treating our customers as we would our own family. As the only foundation and waterproofing company to win the BBB Torch Award for Ethics in our area, we will continue to uphold the standards that come with winning this prestigious award.

Frontier Facilitates Firefighter Training

2024-04-23T17:32:10.05Z

In a gesture of community solidarity and commitment to public safety, Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair has partnered to donate an old box truck to the Pleasant View Fire Department. This donation was aimed at enhancing the department's training capabilities, particularly in conducting rescue drills involving vehicular accidents. Recognizing the vital role played by first responders, Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair is proud to contribute to the ongoing efforts of the Pleasant View Fire Department in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.

By providing the department with a dedicated vehicle and space for rescue training, this donation enabled firefighters to simulate realistic scenarios and hone their skills in rescue operations. The box truck was pushed off an embankment on Frontier's property, simulating a precarious car accident. This allowed the firefighters to work at their own pace, learning exactly how to handle a situation and best help the potential victim. Inside the box truck was a small car, which fire and rescue were able to tunnel through to access a "victim" trapped inside. In another scenario, they worked to free a "victim" who had been pinned underneath the car inside the box truck. The final scenario involved the use of the "jaws of life" to access specific areas of the vehicle, simulating a crash in which the vehicle's doors could not be opened.

"We are thrilled to support the Pleasant View Fire Department in their mission to protect and serve the community," said Dustin Gebers, General Manager of Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair. "This donation represents our commitment to fostering collaboration and providing essential resources to those who selflessly dedicate themselves to saving lives."

This contribution significantly enhanced the firefighter's training capabilities and enabled them to better prepare for the challenges that they may face in the line of duty. It underscores the importance of community partnerships in supporting our mission to protect and serve. Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair believe wholeheartedly in the values of the Pleasant View Fire Department, and we are proud we were able to support them in their mission of better serving the community.

Frontier Donates Food Truck to Mid-Cumberland Community Action Agency

2024-02-14T10:33:34.05Z

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair has proudly contributed to the Mid-Cumberland Community Action Agency's (MCCAA) mission by generously donating one of our dedicated "All Things Basementy" trucks. This significant contribution is geared towards assisting in the noble cause of feeding families in need across the seven counties surrounding Davidson County.

"We serve seven counties surrounding Davidson County so the donated truck will be a huge help to our agency," Stormy Vaughan, Case Manager for Williamson & Cheatham Counties, explained. "We can use it to transport food, donated items, and furniture. Thank you Frontier Basement for your huge donation!"

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair aligns with MCCAA's mission of being a "stepping stone to create stronger communities where families with low incomes have opportunities to connect, grow, and maintain dignity." Operating with principles of respect, integrity, and passion, our faith-based company is committed to making a positive impact in Middle Tennessee, Western Kentucky, and Northern Alabama. We take pride in supporting those in need and are thrilled to contribute to MCCAA's outreach efforts.

The significance of this donation extends beyond the immediate impact on MCCAA's operations. It reflects Frontier's dedication to helping communities in Cheatham, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Trousdale, Williamson, and Wilson counties. As a result of this collaboration, the MCCAA will be better equipped to reach more people efficiently, streamlining the transportation process and ultimately ensuring that more individuals receive the assistance they require.

Frontier is excited to witness the positive outcomes of this collaboration as the new food truck plays a pivotal role in enhancing outreach efforts and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need within our shared communities. We look forward to continuing our commitment to serving and supporting the well-being of our neighbors, and we are optimistic about the lasting impact this donation will have on the communities we collectively strive to uplift.

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair named to Qualified Remodeler HIP 200 for 2023

2023-12-06T14:33:53.05Z

Joelton, TN (12-06, 2023) – Qualified Remodeler, a leading publication serving remodelers and home improvement companies in the U.S., recently ranked Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair as one of the 200 largest home improvement companies in the country—the HIP 200.

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair was chosen as a 2023 HIP 200 company by the Qualified Remodeler editorial staff for meeting a set of criteria including installed remodeling dollar volume, total years in business, industry association membership, industry certification, industry awards and community service.

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair's mission is to offer the best permanent solutions by treating each customer with 'wow' customer service. For more than 20 years, Frontier has proudly provided solutions for basement waterproofing, foundation repair, concrete lifting and leveling, and crawl space repair and encapsulation.

“Based on Qualified Remodeler’s analysis, the HIP 200 firms tend to share several common attributes, including strong revenues, a commitment to customer service, insightful sales techniques and strong customer loyalty,” says Qualified Remodeler owner and editorial director, Patrick O’Toole. “These attributes helped put the firms on this list and contribute to their success.”

Additional information on the HIP 200 can be found in the November/December 2023 issue of Qualified Remodeler and at www.qualifiedremodeler.com.

Frontier's COO Named in ProRemodeler's 40 Under 40

2023-04-05T12:00:52.05Z

Dustin Gebers, Chief Operations Officer of Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair, is named one of ProRemodeler's Forty Under 40 in 2022. This Forty Under 40 program highlights outstanding young professionals in residential remodeling and home improvement across the Nation.

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair has approximately quadrupled since Dustin came on board in 2017. He attributes this unprecedented growth to developments and changes in infrastructure that have corrected issues and allowed the company to set goals for growth in the years to come. Dustin focuses heavily on training his team to be leaders and providing the tools they need to coach and mentor others within the company. He says, "Treating our people well, training them, and pouring our resources into them is how the company wins."

Read more about Dustin in his 40 Under 40 profile with ProRemodeler here: https://www.proremodeler.com/dustin-gebers

Sinking Patio Lifted, Gallatin, TN

2023-03-08T12:27:01.05Z

The patio in the entry way to the house was sinking down and created big gaps, presenting daily tripping hazard for the homeowners or anyone visiting the house. The front steps also developed cracks due to sinking patio. The difference was so enormous that one of the columns holding the roof above patio collapsed and created a huge gap underneath, so the roof wasn't properly supported anymore.

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair Donates Clothes to Local Women's Shelter

2022-11-07T13:15:51.05Z

We run a week-long clothing swap day in our office to reduce waste and give clothes we don’t use a new purpose. We had incredible participation!

We received more clothes than we expected, all in excellent condition, and decided to donate them to a local women’s shelter. We wanted to support women who went through hardship and give them an equal chance to start a new chapter in their life by feeling confident and presentable in their clothes during their next interview.

The clothes were donated to Urban Ministries, who will further distribute them to women’s shelters in the Clarksville area.

Upcoming Home Shows

2022-07-25T17:08:45.05Z

Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair is thrilled to announce that after taking a long break from participating in trade shows due to the COVID-19 pandemic in recent years, we have several shows lined up for the upcoming months:

Nashville Home & Garden Show/ The Fairgrounds: August 13-14, 2022
Nashville Home Show/ Music City Center: September 9-11, 2022
Spring 2023 Nashville Home Expo: January 14-15, 2023
Nashville Home + Remodeling Expo: April 6-8, 2023

Stop by our booth and ask our experts about how we can help you, whether your house has issues with foundation settlement, water in the basement, cracked concrete, or how you can have healthier home by encapsulating your crawl space or basement.

Concrete Driveway Lift & Level

2021-08-25T13:03:14.05Z

This driveway will get the PolyLevel and NexusPro treatment to level and stabilize and finally seal.

Concrete Stabilizing in Ashland City, TN

2021-08-25T12:57:54.05Z

PolyLevel foam can be injected under the slab to fill the void and stabilize it permanently.

Repair Concrete Walkway

2021-08-25T12:38:48.05Z

Frontier went in with PolyLevel injections to lift and stabilize the concrete walkway of this home.

Cracked and Sinking Steps

2021-08-25T12:33:02.05Z

PolyLevel can be injected under these steps to level and stabilize them permanently.

PolyLevel Lift and Stabilize in Cadiz, KY

2021-08-25T11:43:08.05Z

Soil had washed out from beneath this concrete slab, causing it wo sink and pull away from the house. Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair went in with PolyLevel to fill the void and stabilize the slab permanenty.

Concrete Lift & Repair in Columbia, TN

2021-08-24T16:11:17.05Z

Frontier's PolyLevel expands, providing precise lifting and stabilization of the slab without adding any significant weight.

Concrete Repair Around Pool Deck

2021-08-24T16:08:13.05Z

Our crews drill pea-size holes in the concrete and this is where we inject PolyLevel foam that will lift and stabilize the slab. We then seal any cracks with NexusPro sealant.

PolyLevel Fills the Void in Gilbertsville, KY

2021-08-24T16:03:53.05Z

Frontier can fill the void under this building with PolyLevel injections.

Concrete Slab Lift & Repair

2021-08-24T16:00:55.05Z

PolyLevel injections can lift the concrete slap that the steps are settled on and raise them up and stabilize them. Then, NexusPro will be used to seal the cracks across the steps.

Sealing the Joints

2021-08-24T15:47:27.05Z

When concrete joints dry and flake away, it leaves the soil beneath that slab open to water and erosion. NexusPro sealant offers a permanent solution and will extend the life of this pool deck.

Tripping Hazard on Front Walkway

2021-08-24T09:49:57.05Z

Our state-of-the-art PolyLevel system can raise that slab and stabilize it for a more permanent solution. Trust Frontier!

Concrete Slab Lift and Stabilize

2021-08-24T09:29:57.05Z

Specialized equipment will be used to inject the polymer foam under the slab to lift and stabilize it.

Tripping Hazard in Brentwood, TN

2021-08-23T16:19:36.05Z

Frontier's solution to this problem is to lift and level the slab with our PolyLevel injections, seal the cracks with NexusPro sealant and seal the joints as well.