The Problem: Loose Cinder Blocks, Damaged Brick Columns, and Failing Plywood on East Façade

A commercial property owner in Farmingdale, NY reached out to Zavza Seal after observing widespread structural issues on the east façade of their building. The most pressing concerns included:

• Loose cinder block columns that could no longer support attached plywood securely.
  
• Damaged and unstable brick columns along the east façade that were vulnerable to water infiltration and structural failure.
  
• Compromised and rotting plywood behind the brick façade, leading to weak attachment points and poor water resistance.
  
• Missing or failing downspouts contributing to water damage on the building exterior.
  

These issues not only impacted the structural stability of the building but also posed potential safety hazards and detracted from the property’s appearance.

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The Solution: Comprehensive Façade Restoration by Zavza Seal

After a detailed inspection, Zavza Seal designed and executed a multi-faceted repair plan to restore the structural integrity, functionality, and aesthetics of the building’s east façade. Here’s how we resolved each issue:

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Subject Area 1: Cinder Block Columns

We identified approximately 20 square feet of loose cinder blocks at the top three rows of two columns. These loose blocks made it impossible to fasten plywood properly.

Our solution:

• Removed all loose cinder blocks.
  
• Reset existing blocks where possible.
  
• Installed new cinder blocks and mortar grout joints where needed to ensure a stable and secure structure.
  

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Subject Area 2: East Façade Wall – From Unit 170-13 to North-East Corner

The existing metal frames and glass were attached to the brick façade, which allowed water to infiltrate and weakened the attachment.

Our solution:

• Removed all metal frames and glass.
  
• Installed new pressure-treated plywood behind the brick to create a sturdier and more water-resistant attachment to the cinder block substrate rather than the brick façade.
  
• Replaced all damaged plywood with new, properly fastened and secured ½-inch pressure-treated wood. We replaced pieces in the following sizes: 4×6, 4×2, 4×2, 22×15, 4×8, 15×14, 15×8, 15×8, 15×8, and 15×8.
  

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Subject Area 3: Brick Columns

We repaired several deteriorated brick columns along the east façade.

• 8th Brick Column from the South Side (approx. 15′ x 4′)
  
  • Removed and disposed of the entire damaged brick façade.
    
  • Installed a new brick façade properly fastened to the substrate with a good faith effort to match the existing brick.
    
  • Installed a new downspout approximately 14 feet high.
    
• 11th Brick Column from the South Side – Top 6 feet
  
  • Removed and replaced the top 6 feet by 32 inches of damaged brick with a new, properly secured brick façade matching the original.
    
• 19th Brick Column from the South Side – Top 6 feet
  
  • Removed and replaced the top 6 feet by 32 inches of damaged brick with a matching brick façade.
    
• 24th Brick Column from the South Side (approx. 15′ x 32”)
  
  • Removed and replaced the entire brick façade with a properly secured and matched finish.
    

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Subject Areas: Steel Plate Reinforcements

At two brick columns, we reinforced the upper part of the walls with steel plates:

• 2nd Brick Column from the South Side
  
• 4th Brick Column from the South Side
  

For both, we attached steel plates secured by toggle bolts to the cinder block substrate. The plates were painted in Vinylast Red Oxide High Performance Coatings to protect the ironwork.

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Subject Area: Additional Downspout Installation

We installed another new downspout approximately 14 feet high at the 25th Brick Column from the South Side, improving water drainage and protecting the façade from water damage.

The Result: Restored Stability and Improved Protection

Thanks to Zavza Seal’s detailed approach, the Farmingdale, NY property now has a fully repaired and stabilized east façade. The cinder block columns are secure, the brick columns are properly restored, the plywood sheathing is upgraded and waterproofed, and new downspouts ensure better water management. The property owner was highly satisfied with the improved durability, safety, and appearance of their building.

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Why Choose Zavza Seal?

At Zavza Seal, we specialize in masonry restoration, brick façade repair, cinder block repair, and waterproofing solutions in Farmingdale and throughout Long Island. Whether your property needs structural reinforcement, façade restoration, or water damage prevention, our team delivers long-lasting and reliable results.

If you are dealing with structural damage to your brick or block façade, contact Zavza Seal today for an expert evaluation and professional repairs.