How Zavza Seal Solved Persistent Yard Flooding with a Custom Stormwater Management System

The Challenge

A homeowner in Holbrook, NY was experiencing recurring drainage problems throughout the property. After moderate to heavy rainfall, large sections of the backyard would remain saturated for days. Water collected near the home’s rear foundation, creating muddy conditions and limiting the use of the outdoor space.

Over time, the homeowner became concerned that the excess moisture could contribute to foundation issues, lawn damage, and erosion around the property.

The existing grading and natural drainage patterns were simply not sufficient to handle the volume of stormwater generated during Long Island rain events.

The homeowner contacted Zavza Seal looking for a permanent drainage solution rather than another temporary fix.

Our Evaluation

After performing a detailed site inspection, our team determined that surface water was not being absorbed quickly enough into the surrounding soil.

We recommended installing a large-capacity dry well system capable of collecting stormwater runoff and allowing it to gradually infiltrate into the ground below the surface.

Dry wells are widely recognized as an effective stormwater management method because they temporarily store runoff and promote controlled infiltration into surrounding soils. (US EPA)

The Solution

To address the drainage issue, our team designed and installed a custom underground dry well system.

Scope of Work

• Carefully excavated the designated installation area
• Installed a reinforced concrete base
• Constructed an approximately 80″ x 80″ dry well structure
• Built durable concrete block walls designed for long-term performance
• Installed a large stone reservoir to maximize water storage capacity
• Connected a 4-inch drainage line to direct runoff into the system
• Added deep infiltration pipes to improve underground water dispersion
• Installed a reinforced concrete cover slab
• Restored the surrounding yard and grading after construction

The completed system captures stormwater before it can accumulate on the surface and stores it underground, where it slowly infiltrates into the surrounding soil. This approach helps reduce flooding while supporting natural groundwater recharge. (US EPA)

Why This System Was Different

Many drainage problems are treated with surface-level solutions that only move water from one location to another.

For this project, Zavza Seal focused on controlling the water at its source.

The combination of:

• High-capacity underground storage
• Deep infiltration capability
• Stone-filled drainage reservoir
• Reinforced concrete construction

created a system specifically designed to manage the property’s stormwater challenges over the long term.

Properly designed dry wells can significantly reduce runoff while helping protect structures from excess moisture when installed with appropriate setbacks and drainage planning. (ExtApps DEC)

The Results

Once the dry well installation was completed, the homeowner noticed a significant improvement in how the property handled rainwater. Before the project, water would collect in several areas of the backyard after storms, leaving portions of the lawn muddy and unusable for days. Excess moisture also tended to gather near the foundation, raising concerns about potential water-related damage over time.

The new dry well system changed how stormwater was managed on the property. Instead of pooling on the surface, runoff was directed into the underground drainage system, where it could safely disperse into the surrounding soil. As a result, the yard dried out much faster after rainfall, standing water was greatly reduced, and the outdoor space became more functional and enjoyable.

Most importantly, the homeowner now has a reliable long-term drainage solution and the confidence that excess stormwater is being properly managed below ground rather than collecting around the home.

Project Outcome

By installing a professionally engineered dry well system, Zavza Seal transformed a waterlogged backyard into a properly functioning drainage area.

The homeowner now has a durable stormwater management solution that helps protect the property, improve yard usability, and reduce future drainage concerns.

Zavza Seal specializes in permanent drainage and waterproofing solutions throughout Long Island. Our team designs every dry well system based on site conditions, drainage patterns, and long-term performance requirements.

Whether you’re dealing with backyard flooding, foundation moisture issues, or poor stormwater management, we provide customized solutions built to last.