Project Overview
A homeowner in Brooklyn, NY was experiencing water intrusion concerns near a rear entrance and wanted a long-term solution to better manage stormwater around the property. After evaluating the site, our team designed a custom drainage system that would collect surface water before it could enter the home and safely discharge it away from the structure.
The project included the installation of an L-shaped storm channel system, a high-efficiency sump pump, and multiple drywells to improve drainage capacity throughout the rear yard.
The Problem
Water was collecting near the back entrance during heavy rain events, creating a risk of water entering the ground floor. The homeowner was also concerned that the same drainage issues could be contributing to moisture problems in the basement.
At the time of the inspection, the exact source of the basement water intrusion had not yet been confirmed. However, it was clear that surface water needed to be captured and redirected before it could accumulate near the foundation.
Without proper drainage, repeated water exposure can place unnecessary stress on foundation walls, increase moisture levels around the home, and raise the risk of future water damage.
Our Solution
To protect the property, our team installed a comprehensive drainage and water management system designed to intercept, collect, and redirect stormwater away from the structure.
The project began with the installation of an L-shaped storm channel system near the rear entrance. Our crew carefully removed sections of existing concrete and excavated trenches along the doorway and adjacent wall. The storm channels were then secured in place and surrounded with high-strength concrete to create a durable and seamless finished surface.
The collected water is directed into a sump pump basin equipped with a powerful 1/2 HP sump pump. Once activated, the pump moves water through an underground discharge line that carries it toward the rear yard, where it is safely released through a pop-up emitter.
To further improve drainage capacity, we installed three drywells beneath the rear yard. After removing a section of pavers, the area was excavated to accommodate the drywells. The units were installed on a compacted gravel base and surrounded with additional gravel to maximize water dispersal into the surrounding soil.
This integrated system allows stormwater to be captured quickly, moved away from vulnerable areas, and absorbed into the ground at a safe distance from the home.
Results
The completed drainage system now provides the homeowner with a reliable way to manage surface water around the rear entrance. Water that previously accumulated near the structure is now collected and redirected through a dedicated drainage network designed to reduce the risk of water intrusion.
While additional investigation may be required to determine the exact source of any basement moisture, the new system significantly improves water management around the property and creates an important first line of defense against future water-related issues.
Poor drainage is one of the leading causes of water intrusion and foundation-related problems in homes throughout Brooklyn. Capturing and redirecting stormwater before it reaches the foundation can help reduce hydrostatic pressure, minimize moisture buildup, and protect the long-term integrity of the structure.