Wet Basement
Groundwater intrusion was occurring along the cold joint where the fieldstone foundation wall met the basement slab, resulting in water accumulation and puddling across the basement floor. These conditions prevented the synagogue from safely utilizing the space for storage and raised concerns about moisture-related deterioration. Seeking a permanent and dependable waterproofing solution, they turned to a system designed to keep the basement dry, protect stored materials, and preserve the long-term integrity of the structure.
Basement Drainage System Concrete and Soil Removal
To facilitate the installation of the WaterGuard® drainage system, the concrete slab and adjacent soil were carefully excavated along the interior perimeter of the basement down to the footing level. Throughout the process, special care was taken to identify and avoid existing utilities, plumbing lines, and other subsurface features to prevent disruption or damage. This controlled excavation provided access to the foundation footing, allowing the WaterGuard system to be properly positioned to intercept and manage groundwater intrusion before it could reach the basement floor.
WaterGuard Basement Drainage System
The WaterGuard® perimeter drainage system was installed on a bed of clean crushed stone and precisely pitched to promote efficient water flow toward the sump pump system. Designed to intercept groundwater at the foundation footing, WaterGuard captures seepage at its point of entry and channels it safely to the discharge system before it can reach the basement interior. This approach relieves hydrostatic pressure beneath the slab and along the foundation wall, helping to maintain a dry, usable basement environment.
WaterGuard Concreted into Foundation Floor
Following installation, the WaterGuard® system underwent a controlled flood test to verify proper water collection, flow, and discharge to the sump pump system. Once drainage performance was confirmed, the concrete floor was restored, permanently encapsulating the system beneath the slab. This process ensures the drainage system remains protected while maintaining the basement's finished appearance and functionality.
TrenchDrain Basement Surface Drainage
To address areas where permanent basement utilities or obstructions prevented the installation of a traditional perimeter drainage system, TrenchDrain™ was strategically installed as a surface water collection solution. Integrated directly with the WaterGuard® system, TrenchDrain captures water at the floor surface and efficiently redirects it around immovable utilities, ensuring uninterrupted drainage to the sump pump system. This specialized design allows both surface water and groundwater intrusion to be effectively managed, maintaining continuous protection throughout the basement perimeter.
UltraSump Sump Pump
The UltraSump® Sump Pump System was installed as the primary water evacuation component of the waterproofing system, providing reliable protection against basement flooding. Engineered for high-performance water removal, the system features a powerful cast-iron sump pump, an airtight sump liner, and a battery-powered backup pump that automatically activates during power outages or primary pump failure. This dual-pump configuration ensures continuous operation and dependable water management under a wide range of conditions.
