The Problem:
A homeowner in Bayside was dealing with water entering through the side entrance door. During rain, water would seep through the door saddle and collect on the interior floor. Over time, this caused damage to the flooring and led to moisture buildup in the nearby stairwell area.
The moisture problem did not stop at the surface. It began to affect the lower sections of the sheetrock in the stairwell. Mold started to form at the base of the walls, which created both a health concern and a structural issue. The situation was getting worse with each rainfall and needed a proper fix at the source.
The Solution:
Our team at Zavza Seal focused on stopping the water at the exact entry point before repairing the interior damage.
We began by carefully removing one row of pavers located directly in front of the door. This step allowed us to access the door saddle and the surrounding joints where water was entering.
Once exposed, we applied a waterproofing treatment to the saddle joint and door returns. This created a sealed barrier that prevents water from passing through during rain or snow. After the waterproofing was complete, we reinstalled the pavers using fresh mortar joints to ensure proper alignment and durability. If any pavers were damaged during removal, they were replaced to maintain the appearance and function of the entryway.
Mold Removal and Interior Repair
After stopping the water intrusion, we moved to the interior stairwell area where mold had developed.
We removed the damaged sections of sheetrock in four affected areas. To make sure the problem was fully addressed, we cut the drywall up to 24 inches above the floor. This allowed us to reach all areas where moisture may have spread.
The exposed cavities were then treated with a professional mold killer and preventative solution. This step is important because it not only removes existing mold but also helps stop future growth.
Once the treatment was complete and the area was dry, we installed new sheetrock. The walls were taped, compounded, and finished to restore the space back to a clean and safe condition.
The Result
The side entrance is now fully sealed, and water no longer enters the home during rain. The interior space is dry, clean, and free from mold.
By addressing both the exterior entry point and the interior damage, we provided a complete solution instead of a temporary fix. The homeowner now has peace of mind knowing the problem has been solved at its source.
Why This Repair Method Works?
Water intrusion at door entries is often caused by poor sealing at the saddle and surrounding joints. Fixing this area directly is more effective than trying to manage water after it enters the home.
Removing and reinstalling pavers allows proper access and ensures the waterproofing is done correctly. Treating mold at the root and replacing affected materials ensures the space is safe and long lasting.