The Problem
A homeowner in Queens had been dealing with two frustrating problems for several years.
The first issue was excessive stormwater collecting in the rear yard. During heavy rainstorms, water would pool in a low area of the property and remain for days. The standing water made the yard unusable and created concerns about moisture reaching the home’s foundation.
The second issue appeared inside the basement. The homeowner noticed several cracks developing in the concrete floor. During wet weather, moisture would seep through these cracks, causing damp conditions and raising concerns about future water damage.
The homeowner wanted a permanent drainage solution that would address the source of the water problem rather than simply treating the symptoms.
Our Solution
After a complete evaluation of the property, our team determined that the backyard needed a large-capacity underground drainage system capable of collecting and dispersing stormwater before it could accumulate near the home.
We recommended the installation of a custom-built dry well system combined with repairs to the damaged basement concrete floor.
Dry Well Installation
Our crew began by saw-cutting and removing a section of the existing concrete surface in the backyard.
We then excavated an area large enough to accommodate a dry well measuring approximately 80 inches long, 80 inches wide, and 44 inches deep. The completed system provides approximately 1,200 gallons of underground stormwater storage capacity.
To create a durable foundation, we installed a reinforced concrete footing around the perimeter of the excavation. A 12-inch layer of clean drainage gravel was placed inside the structure to promote efficient water dispersal into the surrounding soil.
Next, we constructed the dry well walls using concrete masonry units and completed the underground storage chamber.
To finish the system, we installed a reinforced concrete cover slab designed to direct water toward a heavy-duty cast iron dome grate drain. This drain allows stormwater to enter the system while helping prevent debris from entering and causing blockages.
Finally, the concrete surface was restored to match the surrounding area.