Project Overview

A homeowner in Howard Beach contacted Zavza Seal after noticing water collecting near the foundation after heavy rain. They were concerned that the excess water could eventually find its way into the basement and damage the home’s foundation.

After inspecting the property, our team found that water from one of the roof downspouts was being discharged too close to the home. We also found that several foundation wall joints needed to be sealed to help prevent moisture from entering through the concrete.

The Problem

Rainwater should always be directed away from a home’s foundation. In this case, the downspout on the northeast corner of the house was allowing water to collect next to the foundation instead of carrying it safely away.

Over time, standing water around a foundation can increase hydrostatic pressure against foundation walls. This can lead to water seepage, foundation deterioration, and costly repairs if left untreated.

Our inspection also found that approximately 136 linear feet of foundation wall joints needed to be waterproofed. These joints can become entry points for moisture as sealants age and break down over time.

Without correcting both issues, the homeowner would continue to face unnecessary moisture around the home’s foundation.

Our Solution

After evaluating the property, the Zavza Seal team designed a drainage and waterproofing solution to help keep water away from the home’s foundation.

Step 1: Sealing the Foundation Wall Joints

Our crew first prepared approximately 136 linear feet of foundation wall joints.

Loose and deteriorated material was carefully removed before the joints were cleaned and prepared for sealing.

We then applied a high-performance polyurethane sealant to create a flexible waterproof barrier. This helps prevent water from entering through the joints while allowing the sealant to move with normal seasonal expansion and contraction of the foundation.

Step 2: Extending the Downspout Underground

Next, we improved the home’s drainage system.

Using diamond saw blades, we carefully cut the existing concrete slab to create space for a new underground drainage line.

A trench was excavated, and the existing downspout was extended below ground using a 4-inch solid PVC pipe. This new drainage line carries rainwater safely away from the foundation instead of allowing it to collect next to the house.

Step 3: Installing a Dry Well

To manage the discharged rainwater, we installed a 50-gallon perforated PVC dry well.

The dry well was surrounded with clean washed gravel and wrapped in soil separator fabric to improve drainage while helping prevent soil from clogging the system.

A pop-up emitter was also installed to safely release excess water during periods of heavy rainfall.

Step 4: Restoring the Concrete

After the underground drainage work was completed, our crew restored the area by pouring 4,000 PSI concrete where the slab had been opened.

The finished surface blended with the surrounding concrete while protecting the newly installed drainage system below.

The Result

The homeowner now has a drainage system that moves roof runoff safely away from the foundation, reducing the amount of water collecting around the home.

The newly sealed foundation wall joints help protect against moisture intrusion, while the underground PVC pipe and dry well work together to improve drainage during heavy rain.

The completed project provides several long-term benefits, including:

• Better protection against water intrusion.
• Reduced hydrostatic pressure around the foundation.
• Improved drainage during storms.
• Longer-lasting foundation joint protection.
• Restored concrete with a clean finished appearance.

By addressing both the drainage issue and the foundation joints at the same time, the homeowner now has a more complete waterproofing solution.

Why the Homeowner Chose Zavza Seal

Water problems around a foundation are often caused by more than one issue. Simply sealing the foundation without improving drainage may not solve the problem for the long term.

At Zavza Seal, we focus on identifying the source of the water before recommending a solution. By combining foundation waterproofing with proper drainage improvements, we help homeowners protect their homes from future water damage.

Need Foundation Waterproofing or Drainage Repair in Howard Beach, NY?

If water is collecting near your home’s foundation, your basement has signs of moisture, or your downspouts are not draining properly, Zavza Seal can help.

We provide professional foundation waterproofing, drainage correction, dry well installation, basement waterproofing, and foundation repair services throughout Howard Beach, Queens, Brooklyn, Long Island, and the Bronx.

Contact Zavza Seal today to schedule a professional inspection and learn how we can help protect your home from water damage.