Before Encapsulation 1
Here is before the encapsulation. Notice the saturated soil and standing water.
After Encapsulation 1
There is a complete transformation in the space. The sealed vapor barrier protects the space from groundwater, then dehumidifiers monitor and control the residual air moisture. There is also a sump pump that pushes the water away from the home.
Before Encapsulation 2
The whole crawlspace had flooded. The water had to be pumped out to start the work.
After Encapsulation 2
After encapsulation, if it rains, the vapor barrier can act almost like a water bed until the pump can push the water away from the home. Having an unsealed vapor barrier would simply not work and water would intrude the space
After Encapsulation 3
The new crawlspace is now clean, dry, and could even be used as storage space.