Crawl Space Encapsulation for Calgary, AB:
Cleaner Air, Safer Homes
If your home has a crawl space, it may be one of the most overlooked sources of invisible threats to your household’s health. Crawl space encapsulation is the process of sealing this area – and controlling moisture, blocking soil gases (like radon), and improving your air quality in the process. At Radon Doctors, we approach crawl space encapsulation the way we approach everything: with a diagnostic mindset, certified expertise, and a commitment to solutions that actually work.
crawl space encapsulation
What Is Crawl Space Encapsulation? Why Is It Important?
Crawl space encapsulation involves installing a heavy-duty vapour barrier across the floor and walls of your crawl space, effectively sealing it off from the soil beneath. This creates a controlled environment that limits moisture intrusion, reduces the risk of mold and structural damage, and helps block the primary pathway through which radon and other soil gases enter your living space. In Calgary and across Alberta, homes built over crawl spaces are at risk of experiencing elevated radon levels, making encapsulation an important part of improving indoor air quality.
Without encapsulation, you could face:
crawl spaces & radon
Is Crawl Space Encapsulation the Same as Radon Mitigation?
Crawl space encapsulation and radon mitigation are related but distinct services. Encapsulation focuses on sealing the crawl space to control moisture and limit the entry points for soil gases (including radon). Radon mitigation involves installing active depressurization systems that draw radon from beneath your home and exhaust it safely outside. In many homes, both work together: encapsulation addresses the physical barrier, while mitigation handles active gas management.
For homes where testing reveals radon levels above Health Canada’s guideline of 200 Bq/m³, active radon mitigation is the recommended solution. However, crawl space encapsulation can be a valuable complementary measure.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions about crawl space encapsulation? We’re always happy to explain the science.
How do I know if my crawl space needs to be encapsulated?
If your home was built over a crawl space and has never been encapsulated, it’s worth having it assessed. Signs that encapsulation may be needed include: visible moisture on walls or floors, musty odours coming from lower levels of your home, high indoor humidity, evidence of mold on wood structures, or radon test results that suggest significant soil gas entry. A professional assessment will confirm what your crawl space actually needs.
What does the crawl space encapsulation process involve?
The process typically begins with cleaning and preparing the crawl space, removing debris, and addressing any existing moisture issues. A thick, reinforced vapour barrier is then installed across the floor and up the walls, sealed at seams and penetrations to create a continuous barrier. Depending on the home, additional components, like drainage matting, insulation, or vent sealing, may also be included as part of a complete system.
How thick should a crawl space vapour barrier be?
Vapour barrier thickness is measured in mils, and quality encapsulation systems use barriers that are significantly heavier than basic poly sheeting. A proper crawl space encapsulation barrier is typically 12 to 20 mils thick – heavy enough to resist punctures, tears, and long-term wear. Thinner plastic sheeting sold at hardware stores is not a substitute for a properly installed crawl space encapsulation system.
How long does crawl space encapsulation last?
A professionally installed encapsulation system using quality materials should last for many years with minimal maintenance. The vapour barrier itself is durable and designed for long-term performance in below-grade environments. Periodic inspections are recommended to check for any physical damage, pest intrusion, or shifting that could compromise seams or penetrations over time.
Our crawl space encapsulation Process
Three Clear Steps. Verified Protection.
Radon Doctors makes the crawl space encapsulation process clear and transparent from start to finish.
Assessment & Testing
We begin with a radon test and crawl space assessment to understand your home’s specific conditions. This ensures we have all the information we need to make an honest, data-backed recommendation – not a one-size-fits-all sales pitch.
Customized Plan
Based on the assessment findings, we develop a plan tailored to your crawl space’s size, layout, moisture conditions, and radon risk. We walk you through exactly what will be done, what materials will be used, and what results to expect.
Installation & Follow-Up
Our team completes the encapsulation with precision, sealing barriers at all seams, walls, and penetrations. We follow up to confirm everything is working as intended and ensure you fully understand how it all functions.
why choose us
Why Radon Doctors Is Calgary’s
Choice for Crawl Space Encapsulation
Radon Doctors isn’t a general contractor who happens to offer encapsulation – we’re environmental science specialists who understand how soil gases, moisture, and home air systems interact.
Scientist-Led Expertise
Our founder’s background in environmental science, gas systems, and emissions means every encapsulation service is grounded in data and engineering – no guesswork.
Personalized Service
You work directly with the person who will assess, plan, and oversee your project – not a call centre or rotating crew. Count on clear communication and quality results.
C-NRPP Certified
All radon-related work, including assessments connected to encapsulation projects, follows the standards set by Canada’s national radon proficiency program.
Free Testing First
We offer free radon testing before recommending any services, so you always know what problem you’re actually solving – and why the solution we’re presenting makes sense.
Transparent Recommendations
If your crawl space doesn’t need encapsulation, we’ll tell you. Our business is built on trust and referrals – not on upselling services that aren’t necessary.
Deep Local Knowledge
We understand Calgary and Alberta’s specific radon risks, soil conditions, and climate factors, which directly inform how we protect crawl space systems.
Client Reviews
Trusted by Calgary Families
Real results from real homeowners who chose a science-based approach.
Service Area
Serving Greater Calgary
We provide professional radon testing and mitigation across Calgary and to surrounding communities within a 100km radius.
Resources
Learn About Radon in Calgary
Stay informed with our latest articles on radon safety. From initial testing to effective mitigation, we’ll help you protect what matters most.
Buying a Home? Why You Should Never Skip the Radon Test
How to Read and Understand Your Radon Test Results
The Invisible Threat: Why Radon’s Alpha Particles Are So Dangerous to Your Lungs
Start Today
Protect Your Home
From the Ground Up
Your crawl space may be out of sight, but what’s happening down there directly affects the air your family breathes every day. Whether you’re concerned about moisture, radon, or both, Radon Doctors is here to give you clear answers and real solutions. Schedule your onsite consultation today – no pressure, no guesswork, just honest expertise.
When it comes to radon services, we strive to do it all – from testing to mitigation to maintenance, you can count on us.
Book Your Free Test
Fill out the form below and we’ll reach out within 24 hours.
"*" indicates required fields