The Problem:

A homeowner in Jamaica, NY discovered a large sinkhole in their backyard that measured approximately 7 feet deep and 4 feet in diameter. Sinkholes can become a serious safety hazard if left untreated, especially in residential properties where they may continue to expand over time.

Large sinkholes can develop for several reasons, including soil erosion, poor drainage, or underground voids. Regardless of the cause, they should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further ground movement and property damage.

Our senior project manager and estimator visited the property to evaluate the condition of the sinkhole and recommend the appropriate solution.

Our Solution:

After inspecting the affected area, our team developed a plan to safely fill and stabilize the sinkhole.

The scope of work included:

• Clearing and preparing the edges of the sinkhole.
• Delivering four cubic yards of soil to the property.
• Backfilling the entire sinkhole with soil until it was level with the surrounding yard.
• Compacting the soil in phases every vertical foot during the backfilling process.

Proper soil compaction is one of the most important steps in sinkhole repairs. Simply dumping soil into a hole can lead to future settling and uneven ground conditions. By compacting the soil in layers, we help create a more stable and durable repair.

Why Soil Compaction Matters?

When repairing a sinkhole, filling the hole is only part of the solution. The material must also be compacted correctly to minimize future settlement.

Layered compaction provides several benefits, including:

• Improved ground stability.
• Reduced risk of future sinking.
• Better support for landscaping and yard use.
• Longer-lasting repairs.

Taking the time to compact the soil properly helps ensure that the repaired area performs well over time.

The Result:

The sinkhole was safely filled and brought back to grade with the surrounding yard surface. The phased compaction process helped provide a stable and level repair that restored both the appearance and safety of the property.

At Zavza Seal, we understand that sinkholes can be alarming for homeowners. Our goal is to provide practical and cost-effective solutions that address the problem while protecting the integrity of your property.

Need Sinkhole Repair in Jamaica, NY?

If you’ve noticed sinking ground, depressions in your yard, or signs of soil movement, our team can inspect the problem and recommend the right repair solution before it becomes more severe.