The Problem: Water Intrusion and Structural Cracks in the Foundation
A homeowner in Islip, NY contacted Zavza Seal after noticing persistent water intrusion and visible cracks in their basement’s west foundation wall. During heavy rains, water seeped into the basement, and over time, cracks had formed, some of which showed signs of structural weakness.
The homeowner was concerned about ongoing damage to the foundation and potential mold growth. They needed a durable solution that addressed both water intrusion and structural integrity. Zavza Seal was chosen for our expertise in foundation waterproofing and structural crack repair in Islip, NY.
The Solution: Comprehensive Exterior and Interior Foundation Repair
Our team designed a full-scale plan to waterproof and strengthen the foundation wall, incorporating both exterior and interior measures.
Exterior Scope: West Foundation Wall (28 Linear Feet)
- Excavated the exterior perimeter of the wall down to the footing, carefully cutting and removing roots as needed.
- Cleaned the wall surface thoroughly using steel brushes and a power washer.
- Installed a 4-inch perforated PVC pressure relief pipe at the footing level, surrounded by gravel and filter fabric to prevent clogging.
- Repaired all cracks and defective areas using high-strength cement, grout, and 4.5 oz reinforced fiberglass mesh sandwiched between two layers of Basecrete waterproofing cement.
- Structural cracks were chased with diamond blades, cleaned, and reinforced with deep slots cut every 12 inches. These slots were filled with structural epoxy and non-corrosive carbon stitches rated at 6,500 pounds each.
- Applied a coat of 7,000 PSI waterproofing cement over the repair area, followed by reinforced fiberglass mesh and a second coat of waterproofing cement.
- Applied liquid waterproofing rubber to the entire foundation wall and footing, attaching root barriers where necessary.
- Installed a Delta brand high-performance dimpled waterproofing membrane over the wall to channel incidental water to the footing drain system.
- Backfilled the excavation to original grade, graded the soil to slope away from the foundation, and compacted it using a plate tamper.
Exterior Scope: Window Wells
- Installed two new galvanized steel window wells with gravel bedding and a self-sustaining drainage system connected to the footing pressure relief system.
Interior Scope: West Foundation Wall (28 Linear Feet)
- Cut and removed the existing corrugated pipes and excavated a trench, disposing of all debris.
- Installed a 4-inch perforated PVC pipe in gravel and filter fabric, connecting it to the existing corrugated pipes from the two perpendicular foundation walls.
- Modified the sump basin with openings to accept the new pipes.
- Drilled weep holes in each cinder block at footing level to allow trapped water to reach the interior French drain system.
- Installed a strip of Delta brand high-performance dimpled waterproofing membrane under grade to direct water from the weep holes into the drainage system.
- Repaired the trench cut with new 4,000 PSI high-strength concrete, troweled level with the existing basement floor.
The Results: A Dry, Structurally Sound Foundation
Thanks to Zavza Seal’s comprehensive approach, the homeowner now enjoys a dry basement and a structurally sound foundation. Both exterior and interior drainage systems ensure that water is properly diverted, while the structural repairs and waterproofing membranes provide lasting protection against future damage.
If your property is facing similar challenges, contact Zavza Seal for expert foundation waterproofing and crack repair in Islip, NY. We deliver customized solutions that protect your home for years to come.
Facing similar foundation problems? Call our professionals for a no-obligation estimate, consultation and inspection today!