The Problem:

A homeowner in Hollis, NY was having trouble with water collecting near the foundation of the house. During heavy rain, water would sit along one side of the home and slowly make its way toward the foundation wall.

Over time, this kind of water buildup can lead to serious problems. It increases pressure against the foundation and can eventually cause cracks, leaks, and damage inside the basement.

In this case, the issue was mainly caused by poor drainage. Water was not being directed away from the home properly, and the existing downspout was not doing enough to move water far from the foundation.

The Solution:

Our team created a simple and effective plan to move water away from the home and protect the foundation long term.

Exterior Drainage System Installation

We started by installing an underground pitched membrane along the problem area of the foundation wall. This membrane was carefully placed from the corner of the house to the point where the siding begins.

The purpose of this system is to catch water before it reaches the foundation and guide it away safely. The membrane was designed with a slight slope so water naturally flows in the right direction.

Drainage Pipe and Dry Well System

To complete the system, we installed a perforated drainage pipe at the base of the membrane. This pipe collects the water and carries it away from the home.

The pipe was then connected to a newly installed dry well. The dry well allows water to safely disperse into the ground without pooling near the foundation.

This setup helps reduce pressure around the foundation and prevents water from building up in the same area again.

Downspout Extension

We also extended the existing downspout to make sure rainwater from the roof is directed far away from the house.

By moving this water away from the foundation, we reduce the chances of future water problems and keep the area around the home dry.

Final Result:

The foundation area is now properly protected from water buildup. Rainwater is collected and redirected away from the home instead of pooling near the wall.

This reduces pressure on the foundation and helps prevent cracks, leaks, and long-term damage. The homeowner now has peace of mind knowing their home is protected during heavy rain.

Why This Project Matters?

Water around the foundation is one of the most common causes of basement problems. If not handled properly, it can lead to costly repairs and structural damage.

This project shows how a simple drainage system can solve the problem at the source and protect the home for years to come.