Project Summary
A homeowner in Sayville, NY was dealing with persistent water intrusion at the floor of their finished subgrade room. The moisture was not only compromising the room’s usability but also threatening long-term structural stability. The homeowner contacted Zavza Seal, a trusted name in foundation waterproofing and structural repairs on Long Island, to address the issue with a permanent and professional solution.
The Problem
Water was seeping through the exterior foundation wall and entering the finished subgrade room. This type of water intrusion can lead to:
- Mold and mildew growth
- Damage to flooring and drywall
- Deterioration of the foundation wall
- Increased hydrostatic pressure, leading to cracks and settlement over time
A durable, long-term fix was essential to prevent further damage and ensure the space remained dry and livable.
Our Solution
To stop the water intrusion and protect the foundation, our team executed a comprehensive waterproofing strategy covering approximately 32 linear feet of the exterior foundation wall.
1. Full Excavation
We excavated down to the bottom of the foundation footing along the entire Subject Area. This allowed us full access to inspect and treat the wall and footing properly.
2. Foundation Wall Preparation
- Cleaned off the wall surface
- Repaired all visible cracks and defective areas
- Raked out the joint between the foundation wall and footing to prepare for waterproofing
3. Reinforced Waterproofing Treatment
We applied a 4.5 oz reinforced fiber mesh sandwiched between two layers of 7,000 PSI waterproofing cement at the wall-footing joint. This created a high-strength barrier that flexes with foundation movement while maintaining a watertight seal.
4. Liquid Membrane Application
Next, we coated the entire exposed foundation wall and footing with a liquid rubber membrane for added waterproofing performance.
5. Dimpled Waterproofing Membrane Installation
We installed a Delta brand dimpled waterproofing membrane, known for its high performance and durability. The dual-layer design features:
- An inner recycled HDPE layer
- An outer virgin high-density polyethylene layer
- A vacuum-formed dimpled pattern that channels water down into the drainage system
6. Drainage System Installation
To relieve hydrostatic pressure, we installed a 4-inch perforated PVC pressure relief pipe along the footing, surrounded by gravel and filter fabric to prevent clogging. This pipe directs water into a gravel sump, protecting the wall from future cracking and settlement caused by water buildup.
7. Final Backfill and Compaction
Once all systems were in place, we backfilled the excavation to its original grade and compacted the soil using a plate compactor to prevent future settlement.
Note: Any landscaping or foliage removed during excavation was the homeowner’s responsibility to replace.
Results
The homeowner in Sayville, NY now enjoys a dry, protected subgrade room with enhanced foundation stability and long-term peace of mind. Our professional installation of a complete exterior waterproofing system, including both structural reinforcement and drainage, ensures that the property is well-protected from water intrusion for years to come.
Resolve issues today with the help of certified professionals.