Project Overview

Zavza Seal LLC was contracted to address persistent water intrusion issues in the basement of a home in North Babylon, NY. The project focused on waterproofing a section of the basement foundation wall approximately 11 linear feet (LF) long. Our objective was to eliminate water entry and prevent future structural damage. Additionally, we evaluated the potential use of a French drain system, although our primary recommendation centered on the application of a Basecrete mesh-reinforced solution.

Objective

The primary goal was to permanently seal the foundation wall to prevent water intrusion, enhance structural integrity, and eliminate the need for ongoing maintenance.

Project Details

Subject Area: Basement Foundation Wall (Approx. 11 LF)

• Challenge: The basement foundation wall exhibited water intrusion, with previous patching materials showing signs of failure. Water entry not only compromised the structure but also created the risk of mold growth, which could impact the indoor environment.
• Solution:
  1. Removal of Defective Patching Material: Our team removed the existing defective patching material along the basement foundation wall, exposing the joint for a thorough repair. This included 6 LF along one section and 5 LF on the adjacent wall, totaling 11 LF.
  2. Grinding and Preparation: We ground the wall at the joint, creating a 3-inch wide groove both vertically and horizontally along the floor. This ensured that the new waterproof material would adhere securely, providing a lasting seal.
  3. Basecrete Application: We applied Basecrete, a mesh-reinforced waterproof cement, along the entire length of the joint. This material is known for its durability, waterproofing capabilities, and structural reinforcement. Basecrete creates a seamless barrier that not only blocks water intrusion but also strengthens the foundation itself.

Optional: French Drain System

While Basecrete was our recommended solution, we provided the client with an option for a French drain system, which would involve:

• Excavation and Installation: Excavating beside the footing, removing soil and debris, and installing a French drain to redirect water away from the foundation.
• Sump Pump Installation: Setting up a sump pump basin, installing a high-efficiency sump pump, and channeling water to a dry well in the yard.

However, we highlighted several reasons why Basecrete is a superior choice:

• Structural Integrity: Basecrete strengthens the foundation, whereas a French drain can potentially weaken it.
• Low Maintenance: Unlike a French drain, Basecrete requires no maintenance.
• No Water Flow Near Living Space: Basecrete ensures no water flows around the basement perimeter, minimizing any risk of dampness near living areas.
• Reduced Dependency on Equipment: A French drain relies on a sump pump, which could fail or generate noise, whereas Basecrete is a standalone solution.
• Energy Efficiency: The sump pump in a French drain system increases utility costs, while Basecrete does not require energy to maintain effectiveness.

The foundation wall in terrible condition needing an urgent waterproofing solution.

Results

Our Basecrete application provided the following benefits:

• Enhanced Structural Strength: By reinforcing the foundation wall with Basecrete, we improved the home’s structural stability.
• Effective Water Barrier: The waterproofing properties of Basecrete created a durable seal, completely blocking water intrusion and eliminating dampness in the basement.
• Peace of Mind: The client no longer needed to worry about sump pump maintenance, energy costs, or water flow issues around their living space.

Key Takeaways

1. Durable, Low-Maintenance Waterproofing – The Basecrete solution offers a robust and maintenance-free option for basement waterproofing that outperforms traditional French drains in both durability and convenience.
2. Comprehensive, Targeted Repairs – By focusing on the specific areas of water intrusion and using high-quality materials, Zavza Seal LLC delivered a solution that addressed the client’s immediate needs and prevented future issues.

Conclusion

Zavza Seal LLC’s waterproofing project in North Babylon, NY, showcases our expertise in providing effective, low-maintenance solutions for basement foundation issues. By opting for Basecrete, we delivered a durable, energy-efficient solution that increased the foundation’s strength and prevented future water intrusion. If you’re experiencing basement water intrusion in North Babylon, NY, Zavza Seal LLC offers proven waterproofing expertise tailored to your needs.