The Problem: Water Collecting Near the Cellar Entrance

A Brooklyn, NY homeowner contacted Zavza Seal because surface water was collecting around the cellar entrance landing and could move toward the foundation and nearby window.

During our inspection, we found that the existing bench footing was lower than the concrete landing at the cellar entrance chute. This difference in elevation allowed water to collect in the area instead of draining away from the foundation.

Because the window was located near the affected area, continued water accumulation could increase the risk of water entering the cellar.

The existing concrete landing was approximately 16 square feet and needed to be rebuilt as part of the drainage improvement.

The Solution: New Drainage System and Reconstructed Landing

Zavza Seal developed a drainage solution that would collect surface water and direct it into a new drywell while also creating a raised concrete barrier to protect the window area.

The work combined drywell installation, surface drainage, a reinforced concrete water barrier and a properly pitched concrete landing.

Removing the Existing Landing

Our team first demolished and removed the existing concrete landing.

Removing the landing allowed us to excavate beneath the area and create enough space for the new drainage system.

The excavation also provided access to the soil conditions below the landing so the drywell and drainage components could be properly installed.

Installing a 50-Gallon Drywell

A 50-gallon drywell was installed beneath the affected area.

The drywell was surrounded with clean drainage gravel to provide additional space for water storage and help water move into the surrounding soil.

A drainage collection system was also installed to direct surface water toward the drywell instead of allowing it to remain next to the foundation and window.

Building a Water Barrier Near the Window

The area behind the existing window required additional protection.

Our team installed formwork behind the window and constructed a reinforced concrete water barrier extending across the width of the window opening.

The barrier was raised approximately 8 to 10 inches above the existing landing elevation.

This raised barrier was integrated into the reconstructed concrete landing. Its purpose was to intercept surface water and redirect it toward the new drainage system.

Rebuilding the Concrete Landing

After the drainage system and water barrier were installed, our team poured new concrete to reconstruct the cellar entrance landing.

The new landing was properly pitched toward the drainage system to encourage positive water flow.

Instead of allowing water to sit near the cellar entrance and foundation, the new slope directs surface runoff toward the collection system and drywell.

The Result: Improved Water Management at the Cellar Entrance

The completed project improved drainage around the cellar entrance and reduced the opportunity for surface water to collect near the foundation and window.

The new system combines several elements that work together:

• A 50-gallon drywell provides underground water storage.
• Clean drainage gravel supports water movement around the drywell.
• A drainage collection system directs surface water into the drywell.
• The reinforced concrete water barrier helps prevent water from reaching the window area.
• The new concrete landing is pitched toward the drainage system for better runoff.

The finished area was left clean and orderly.

Why Cellar Entrance Drainage Matters

Cellar entrances and below-grade doorways can be vulnerable to water because they sit lower than the surrounding ground.

If the landing does not drain properly, rainwater can collect near the entrance and foundation. Over time, this can increase the risk of water intrusion and damage to nearby building components.

Proper grading, drainage and water barriers can help control surface water before it reaches vulnerable areas.

At this Brooklyn property, Zavza Seal addressed the problem by improving both the drainage system beneath the landing and the surface water flow across the reconstructed concrete landing.

Need Cellar Entrance Drainage in Brooklyn, NY?

If water collects around your cellar entrance, a drainage problem may be allowing runoff to move toward your foundation or below-grade areas.

Zavza Seal provides drainage improvements, drywell installation, concrete drainage solutions and foundation water intrusion services throughout Brooklyn and the surrounding New York City area.

Contact Zavza Seal to have your cellar entrance and drainage conditions evaluated.