Project Overview:
Zavza Seal addressed water intrusion risks around an exterior staircase and the adjoining foundation walls at a property in Brooklyn, NY. The work focused on sealing joints along both sides of the stairs, waterproofing the wall shared with a neighboring property, and treating the corresponding interior foundation wall.
The Problem:
The exterior staircase had aging caulking and open joints that needed resealing. The area around a window also required sealing to help prevent water from entering the building.
The joint between the staircase and the neighboring shared wall needed additional waterproofing. Inside the home, the corresponding foundation wall required treatment at the wall and floor joint to help prevent water from entering the basement.
Our Solution:
Exterior Staircase Waterproofing
Zavza Seal planned to power-wash the north side of the staircase and apply a brick sealer to the surface. The old caulking would be removed and replaced with new sealants at the joints. The area around the window would also be sealed.
On the south side of the stairs, the existing caulking would be ground out and replaced with new gray sealant to close the joints.
Shared Wall Joint Sealing
The joint between the staircase and the neighboring common wall would be prepared by grinding away the old caulking. The team would waterproof approximately four inches up the wall and four inches across the floor before applying new gray sealant.
Care would be taken to avoid damaging the shared wall or causing unnecessary disruption to the neighbor.
Interior Foundation Waterproofing
Inside the home, Zavza Seal planned to grind the foundation wall and floor joint to remove dirt and loose material, exposing the original surface. The treatment would extend approximately four inches up the wall and four inches across the floor, with additional height treated where needed.
A coat of Basecrete waterproofing cement would be applied, followed by reinforced 4.5-ounce fiberglass mesh and a second coat of Basecrete.
Plastic sheeting would be installed around the work area to contain the work and protect the surrounding interior.
The Result:
The planned work addresses open joints around the staircase, the window, and the adjoining foundation wall. The interior treatment is designed to help seal the wall and floor joint, while the exterior caulking and brick sealer provide added protection against water entry.
Together, these measures are intended to reduce water intrusion risks while protecting the shared wall and surrounding areas.
Staircase and Foundation Waterproofing in Brooklyn, NY
Water can enter a building through worn caulking, open joints, and gaps where exterior surfaces meet foundation walls. Sealing these areas and waterproofing vulnerable interior joints can help protect the basement from moisture.
Zavza Seal provides foundation waterproofing, concrete sealing, and water intrusion repair services in Brooklyn and throughout New York City.