The Problem

A homeowner in Middle Village contacted the team at Zavza Seal after noticing water collecting along the patio wall during heavy rain. The runoff water had nowhere to go, which caused it to sit against the building foundation.

Over time, the trapped water began creating additional problems. Moisture started entering through the staircase landing and balcony area, where several mortar joints had opened. These gaps allowed rainwater to seep into the structure and could eventually lead to deterioration of masonry materials.

If the issue was left untreated, the constant moisture exposure could damage the masonry and potentially lead to interior leaks. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, proper drainage around buildings is one of the most important ways to prevent water damage to structures.

The homeowner wanted a long term solution that would stop water from collecting near the wall and seal the vulnerable masonry joints.

Our Waterproofing Solution

After inspecting the property, the Zavza Seal team designed a solution that addressed both the patio drainage problem and the masonry water entry points.

1. Patio Drainage System Installation

To stop runoff water from sitting against the building wall, our crew carefully removed the existing brick pavers from the patio area. This allowed us to prepare the surface for a drainage system.

We then installed a trench drain across the full width of the patio at the building wall. The trench drain was directed to a proper drainage outlet in accordance with local building and plumbing guidelines.

Once the drainage system was installed and tested, we reinstalled the original brick pavers to restore the patio’s appearance.

This solution captures water immediately when it reaches the wall and redirects it away from the home.

2. Staircase Landing and Balcony Waterproofing

The second part of the project focused on stopping water intrusion through the masonry joints.

Our team:

• Pointed and sealed all open mortar joints using Basecrete waterproofing cement

• Repaired the landing lintel joint using Type N cement for strong and durable bonding

• Sealed vulnerable areas around the staircase landing and balcony

Repointing damaged mortar joints helps restore the water resistance of masonry surfaces. According to the National Park Service, repointing deteriorated mortar joints is essential for preventing moisture penetration in masonry structures.

The Result

After the project was completed, the homeowner immediately noticed the difference.

Rainwater that once collected against the patio wall now flows directly into the trench drain and away from the building. The staircase landing and balcony joints are now properly sealed, preventing water from entering through the masonry.

The patio was restored to its original look with the brick pavers reinstalled neatly over the new drainage system.

This project provided a long lasting waterproofing solution while preserving the appearance of the outdoor space.

Why Proper Patio Drainage Matters

When water is allowed to sit against a building wall, it can slowly penetrate masonry joints, concrete surfaces, and structural materials. Over time this can lead to:

• Foundation moisture problems

• Masonry deterioration

• Interior leaks

• Mold and humidity issues

Installing proper drainage and sealing vulnerable joints helps protect the structure and extend the life of the property.