Making Waves in Brooklyn Real Estate: Waterproofing Your Brownstone

The changing seasons have ushered in a new challenge for Brooklyn real estate enthusiasts. With summer behind us, New York City recently faced record rainfall, leading to substantial flooding, especially in areas like Park Slope and other parts of Brooklyn. It's alarming to note how many brownstones in Brooklyn (and even schools) experienced flooding. While we might hope such events are rare, climate change suggests that we must proactively prepare for future flooding.

Many NYC residents, especially those in the vibrant Brooklyn real estate market, invest significantly in townhouses, duplex garden condos, or even rent garden units with below-grade rec rooms. Safeguarding these properties from potential water damage is crucial. Knowing the source of water intrusion can be challenging. However, some helpful home improvements can help mitigate these issues.

Redirect Water Flow

Begin by ensuring that water flows in desired paths and not towards your property. If your backyard collects water, consider regrading to direct it away from the house. Integrating a drain connected to the sewer line can also prevent water from seeping into your cellar. Additionally, check the roof. If water isn't draining correctly via the gutter spout, it could flow down your house's exterior, making infiltration easier.

Strengthen Access Points

Water often finds its way in through front and rear access hatches. If yours are made of basic materials like plywood, consider upgrading to a steel hatch door. These doors are cemented into walls, ensuring a watertight seal. If you notice leaks despite having a steel door, inspect its corners, as concrete there might need patching.

Secure Foundation Walls

The foundation walls, particularly at the back of brownstones in areas like Park Slope, are common entry points for water. Settling houses can lead to cracks or deteriorating mortar, making way for water. Pay attention to any wall penetrations, like sewer pipes or electrical entries. Addressing these vulnerabilities by repointing the mortar or sealing gaps with hydraulic cement can be an effective solution. If issues persist, consider excavating the exterior to apply a waterproof barrier to the wall, preventing further water intrusion.

Check the Slab

Thin rat slabs might be another culprit, especially if they're cracked. Laying a new slab can be a useful home improvement to keep basements drier.

Be Ready to Pump

Finally, you may want to put a little money into prevention so you don’t have to spend much on resolution. Many residents in Brownstone Brooklyn utilize sump pits and pumps. During major storms, it's not uncommon to see homeowners pumping water directly onto streets using hoses. Installing an automatic sump pump in your basement can keep water buildup from normal rainfall in check and prevent basement flooding.

If you’re unfamiliar, sump pumps act like a big floor drain, sucking any water out of your basement or the surrounding foundation and redirecting it elsewhere out of harm’s way.

Being proactive and prepared is key in the face of nature's unpredictability, especially for those invested in Brooklyn real estate. With the proper precautions, your dream home won't just be water-cooler talk but waterproof, as well. 

Happy home improvements!

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Craig Yoskowitz is a seasoned agent with Corcoran in Park Slope who knows how to navigate the fiercely competitive New York City real estate market. With extensive knowledge and experience, he skillfully guides buyers and sellers through every twist and turn, offering confidence, warmth, and the fortitude to get deals closed.