Project Overview
Zavza Seal was contacted by a homeowner in Maspeth, NY to address a serious structural crack in the basement foundation wall. The crack was causing water intrusion and posing a threat to the structural stability of the property. Over the years, temporary repairs had been made, but they were no longer effective. Our team was tasked with performing a comprehensive structural repair and waterproofing treatment that would permanently resolve the issue.
The Problem
The homeowner experienced ongoing water penetration in the basement, primarily through a structural crack in the foundation wall located near a window well. Key issues included:
- Persistent moisture seepage during heavy rains
- Previous patchwork repairs that had failed over time
- Signs of foundational movement and stress
This not only risked structural damage but also created conditions for mold, mildew, and interior finish degradation. A permanent, structurally sound, and waterproof solution was urgently needed.
Our Solution
Zavza Seal provided a full-coverage structural and waterproofing solution using advanced materials and techniques tailored for long-term performance in residential foundations.
1. Exterior Window Well Sealing
To address surface water entry:
- Cleaned out and sealed the exterior frame of the window well insert, eliminating a direct path for water intrusion at the surface level.
2. Concrete Preparation and Crack Access
Our team thoroughly prepared the area to ensure a solid repair foundation:
- Removed all previous repair materials to start with a clean, stable surface.
- Chased the crack with diamond blades, removing all loose material and exposing clean concrete for proper bonding.
3. Structural Reinforcement with Epoxy and Carbon Stitches
To restore and enhance the wall’s structural integrity:
- Cut deep, perpendicular slots into the concrete across the crack every 12 inches.
- Filled slots with high-strength structural epoxy.
- Installed non-corrosive carbon stitches, each rated to hold up to 6,500 pounds of tensile force, effectively binding the wall and preventing further movement.
4. Crack Injection and Surface Sealing
- Drilled every 6 inches on center along the full length of the crack.
- Injected dual epoxy and urethane formulations for both bonding and flexible sealing from within.
- Applied high-strength mortar to fill and seal the surface cavity of the crack.
5. Waterproofing Layers and Fiber Reinforcement
To prevent future water infiltration:
- Applied a base coat of 7,000 PSI waterproofing cement.
- Embedded a 4.5 oz reinforced fiber mesh into the wet cement for added tensile strength.
- Applied a second layer of 7,000 PSI waterproofing cement over the mesh, locking it in place and forming a robust water barrier.
6. Basecrete Waterproofing at the Cove Joint
At the vulnerable joint where the wall meets the floor:
- Installed mesh-reinforced Basecrete waterproofing at the base of the crack, extending 12 inches on each side, to protect against floor-level seepage and provide a flexible, high-strength seal.
Project Outcome
After completing this highly detailed process, the basement foundation wall was fully stabilized and waterproofed. The results included:
- Elimination of all water intrusion through the structural crack
- Restored structural integrity of the foundation wall
- Reinforced waterproofing at all critical areas, including the window well, crack cavity, and cove joint
- Peace of mind for the homeowner backed by Zavza Seal’s trusted workmanship
Client Feedback
The homeowner in Maspeth was impressed with Zavza Seal’s comprehensive approach, transparent communication, and the quality of materials used. With the new system in place, they now enjoy a dry, structurally sound basement free from recurring water issues.