The Problem:
A basement apartment in Merrick, NY had water coming through the area where the foundation wall met the driveway and walkway.
The visible water penetration was occurring along the masonry joint at the base of the foundation wall. The brick stair joints also had areas where loose material needed to be removed and sealed.
The goal was to seal the visible areas where water was getting through and add a reinforced waterproofing layer along the foundation joint.
The Solution:
The Zavza Seal team began by cleaning the masonry joint along the base of the foundation wall in the driveway and walkway area.
We removed loose material and prepared the surface by grinding approximately 3 inches vertically on the foundation wall and 3 inches horizontally across the driveway and walkway surfaces. This created a clean and properly prepared area for the waterproofing application.
Reinforced Foundation Waterproofing
After surface preparation, we installed reinforced 4.5-ounce Basecrete fiberglass mesh along the full length of the joint.
The fiberglass mesh was embedded with Basecrete waterproofing cement to create a reinforced waterproofing layer over the foundation wall and adjoining driveway and walkway surfaces.
Proper surface preparation and waterproofing are important parts of managing moisture around foundation walls. Building America guidance recommends using appropriate waterproofing and drainage methods as part of a broader foundation moisture-control strategy.
Brick Stair Joint Sealing
We also cleaned the brick stair joints and removed loose material from the affected areas.
A gun-grade waterproof sealant was then applied to the joints to help seal the visible areas where water could enter.
The Result:
Zavza Seal sealed and waterproofed the visible areas of water penetration along the foundation joint and brick stair joints.
The foundation joint received reinforced Basecrete waterproofing cement with 4.5-ounce fiberglass mesh, while the brick stair joints were cleaned and sealed with waterproof sealant.
This work was designed to address the visible points of water penetration identified during the project.
It is important to note that this repair was not intended to eliminate groundwater intrusion throughout the property. If water continues to enter from groundwater or other areas, additional investigation and waterproofing or drainage work may be needed. Water-management guidance from the EPA notes that more extensive moisture problems can require measures beyond sealing an individual leak point.
For homeowners dealing with foundation joint leaks or basement water penetration in Merrick, NY, Zavza Seal can inspect the affected area and recommend a repair based on the source and location of the water.