Basement Waterproofing in Westchester Square, Bronx

Where Does the Water in Westchester Square Basements Come From?

Most of it comes from rain. Most blocks here are inland with no particular flood exposure beyond heavy rain sewer backups, though the western side near Westchester Creek holds moisture longer. Saturated soil pushes water through cracks, joints and the floor edge.

Homes include attached and semi detached houses, detached homes with driveways and low rise apartments over and near the shops. Many have basements used for storage, laundry or living space.

• Seepage at the joint where wall meets floor
• Damp patches and mineral deposits on block
• Musty smells after storms
• Floor drain backups in heavy rain
• Peeling paint on the lower walls
• Wet corners under downspouts outside

Side street driveways often slope toward the house. Rain runs down the slab and collects beside the foundation, and regrading the drive can do more than any interior system.

Shop buildings sometimes have basement storage under older floors. Wet stock and damaged shelving are signs that water has been coming in for a while.

Low spots in a yard are worth a look. A dip beside the foundation collects rain and holds it against the wall, and filling it with compacted soil sloped away from the house is a simple, low cost step that helps before any larger work starts.

Window wells deserve the same attention. A clogged or cracked well fills during a storm and sends water straight through the glass or the frame into the room.