The Problem:
The homeowner in Brooklyn had serious water problems in a narrow alleyway on the north-east side of the property. Every time it rained, water collected on the concrete surface and had nowhere to go. Over time, this caused pooling water, soil saturation, and concern about water moving toward the foundation.
Because the alleyway was close to a neighboring property, the work had to be done very carefully. The drainage system needed to stay fully within the property line while still moving water away from the home in a safe and effective way.
The client needed a long-term drainage solution that could handle heavy rain and prevent future water buildup.
The Solution:
Our Zavza Seal team designed and installed a full underground drainage system using a catch basin and multiple dry wells. This system allows rainwater to collect, flow underground, and slowly absorb into the soil instead of sitting on the surface.
Here is how we completed the project step by step:
- We cut, demolished, and removed a 40 inch by 84 inch section of concrete to expose the soil. All work stayed within the property line.
- We dug deep enough to install a catch basin that collects surface water.
- We cut the concrete and excavated an 8 inch deep trench to install an underground drainage pipe.
- The pipe was pitched correctly so water flows from the catch basin directly to the dry wells.
- We excavated the grass area and installed three side by side 50 gallon dry well tanks.
- The dry wells were placed on a bed of gravel to allow proper water absorption.
- We poured a new 4 inch thick steel wire reinforced concrete slab in the alleyway.
- We patched and repaired all concrete that was cut during the trench work.
- We backfilled the trench and restored the area to complete the system.
This drainage setup now moves water away from the alleyway and safely disperses it underground.
The Result:
After the installation, the alleyway no longer collects standing water. Rainwater is captured by the catch basin and directed into the dry wells, where it slowly drains into the soil.
The homeowner now has:
- Better water control during heavy rain
- Reduced risk of water reaching the foundation
- A clean and restored concrete surface
- A long-lasting drainage solution built for Brooklyn weather conditions
This project is a great example of how proper drainage and dry well systems can solve water problems in tight urban spaces.
Why This Matters for Brooklyn Homes?
Many Brooklyn properties have narrow alleyways and limited drainage options. Without the right system, water can quickly become a serious issue. Dry wells and underground drainage pipes are an effective solution when surface drainage is not enough.
Zavza Seal specializes in custom drainage solutions that work within city conditions and property line limits.

