Crawlspace help

Hi guys and gals.

I'm looking for solutions to a conglomeration of issues. So here goes:

I have a crawlspace. Not a typical crawlspace, though. It's kind of 1/2 crawl, 1/2 basement. You are able to hunch over. It's about 4 feet tall.

It's a field stone foundation that needs re-pointing. What type of concrete should I use for that? Is there a premix type for that?

Another issue is the floor/ ground. It's dirt. Ground water comes up during really heavy rains, because the water table is high. I would guess that there is no permanent way to stop this, but if someone has an idea, let me know.

Because of this issue, I'm thinking that I'll never be able to do one of those fancy crawlspace seal off things that are advertised all over Google. Is there some way to get a more appropriate floor than dirt? Is gravel a good way to go?

Finally, once the foundation is re-pointed, I would like to make some forms and start to concrete up the side of the foundation. Is this a good idea? Any tips on this? Thanks in advance for any help.

 

You would use mortar to re-point the joints not concrete. Since this is a load bearing foundation and potentially a lot of moisture and maybe below grade (underground) I would use type S mortar and it is available in pre-mixed bags where you only need add water.

First, make sure you do all you can outside to direct water away from the home. Make sure downspouts have pipes carrying the water well away from the house and that the ground around the house is graded to direct water away from the foundation. You can also put down 6mil plastic on the ground in the crawl space. This will help trap water and moisture below and help prevent rot and mildew in the wood above. To go a step further you can install a vapor barrier plastic to the bottom side of the floor. I use reinforced plastic sheeting from Americover though I am sure there are other suppliers.

Finally you mention forming up around your foundation and wanting to "concrete up...". Why do you want to do this?