Town/Neighborhood: Floral Park
Borough/County: Nassau County
Construction Type: Residential
Category: Foundation Repair, Structural Support, Crack Injection
Problem:
A homeowner in Floral Park, NY contacted Zavza Seal LLC to address multiple structural issues discovered in their basement. The primary concerns included sinking steel beams, lack of proper column support, visible structural cracks, and unstable footing beneath existing Lally columns. These deficiencies threatened the long-term structural integrity of the home and posed safety concerns.
Upon inspection, we observed the following issues:
- The footing beneath the Lally columns was insufficient and required extension to provide a stable platform.
- A steel beam in the center of the basement rested directly on the concrete foundation at the north and south ends of the home. The span between the steel support column and the foundation walls was too long. As a result, the beam began to sink into the concrete on both sides, creating visible voids.
- Three significant structural cracks, totaling approximately 16 linear feet, were visible on basement walls.
- Hairline cracks were also present on the floor concrete slab, and the driveway required further evaluation by our foreman before work could proceed.
Solution:
Subject Area: Lally Column Footing
We began by establishing and extending the footing to ensure the Lally column would rest on a stable and reinforced platform. This improved the load distribution and prevented future settlement.
Subject Area: Center Steel Beam
To address the compromised beam ends, our team used a phase-jacking method to gently lift each end of the beam by 1/16 inch. This allowed us to restore proper elevation and prepare for structural reinforcement.
We installed two custom-sized permanent steel and concrete columns on each side of the beam. These columns were positioned as close to the foundation walls as possible and designed to handle a 16,000-pound load capacity. This setup provided the necessary support and halted further movement of the beam into the foundation.
Subject Area: Structural Cracks (Approx. 16 Linear Feet)
Prior to beginning the crack repair process, plastic sheeting was hung from floor to ceiling around the work area to isolate it from the rest of the basement and ensure a clean, dust-free environment.
- We chased and ground the surface to expose clean concrete.
- The cracks were then injected with a combination of urethane and epoxy formulations for both flexibility and structural bonding.
- A layer of Basecrete waterproofing cement was applied over the crack surface.
- Reinforced 4.5 oz Basecrete brand fiberglass mesh was installed on top of the Basecrete.
- A second layer of Basecrete cement was applied to complete the reinforcement.
Optional: Floor Concrete Slab Cracks
- These cracks were chased and ground using a diamond blade to prepare for repair.
- Hydraulic cement was applied to fill the cracks.
- A coat of Basecrete waterproofing cement was used, followed by installation of reinforced 4.5 oz fiberglass mesh.
- A final coat of Basecrete cement was added to complete the repair process and enhance durability.
Subject Area: Driveway
Due to varying conditions in the driveway, our foreman conducted a detailed on-site analysis to determine the appropriate repair or replacement strategy. A customized estimate was prepared accordingly.
Conclusion:
This project in Floral Park, NY showcases Zavza Seal LLC’s expertise in resolving serious structural challenges with precision and care. From reinforcing sagging beams and installing new support columns to repairing structural cracks and stabilizing Lally columns, our work restored the home’s foundation and increased its long-term safety and value.
We ensured all work was completed using high-quality materials, modern repair techniques, and an emphasis on structural longevity and homeowner peace of mind.
Experiencing structural cracks, sagging beams, or column instability in your basement? Zavza Seal LLC specializes in foundation repair, structural reinforcement, and waterproofing solutions across Nassau County and beyond.