Problem:

A Brooklyn homeowner wanted to reduce roof runoff and prevent excess water from overwhelming the roof and yard during heavy rain. The challenge was to safely support a large 300 gallon modular water tank, manage overflow during extreme storms, and direct excess water away from the structure without causing pooling or soil erosion. All materials for the tank system were owner supplied, so the installation needed to be precise, durable, and code conscious.

Solution:

Zavza Seal designed and installed a reinforced backyard rainwater management system built to handle both everyday rainfall and extraordinary storm events.

Our team completed the project as follows:

• Excavated near the downspout along the fence line to properly position the system.
  
• Installed a #4 rebar reinforced concrete footing measuring 12 inches wide, 16 inches deep, and 104 inches long on well compacted soil below grade.
  
• Secured steel base plates on both sides of the concrete footing.
  
• Installed two 80 inch pressure treated 4×4 posts anchored to the steel base plates.
  
• Placed and secured the 300 gallon thin modular water tank onto the reinforced footing.
  
• Connected the existing downspout directly into the tank to capture roof runoff.
  
• Connected an owner provided hose to allow controlled water use.
  
• Installed a 3 inch subgrade backup pipe from the tank to the backyard, terminating at a pop up emitter.
  

The backup pipe was a critical component. It allows excess water to safely discharge into the yard when rainfall exceeds tank capacity, preventing excessive water accumulation on the roof and reducing stress on the drainage system.

Results:

The finished system provides reliable rainwater capture, structural stability, and safe overflow control. The homeowner now benefits from improved stormwater management, reduced runoff impact, and a reinforced installation designed to last through New York weather conditions.

Urban properties often struggle with limited drainage options and heavy roof runoff. Proper rainwater management helps protect foundations, reduces localized flooding, and supports responsible stormwater control in dense neighborhoods like Brooklyn.