The Site Challenge
Our clients chose a dream site with a hidden challenge: the property sat on a backfilled riverbed, filled decades ago by the Army Corps of Engineers. While it appeared dry during construction, we knew the location carried elevated risk for groundwater pressure and flooding—risks intensified by changing weather patterns.
Our Approach
At BPC, we draw on decades of experience with complex building sites. On this project, we proactively designed the below-grade systems to exceed residential standards:
- High-Performance Waterproofing—Typically used in commercial harbor-side buildings, applied meticulously to the foundation walls
- Dual Sump Pumps—Installed with backup capacity to manage groundwater movement and redundancy in case of failure
- Hydrostatic-Resilient Detailing—The basement slab and foundation were built to withstand intense upward water pressure
These weren’t upgrades—they were essential choices to protect a long-term investment.
The Event
Years later, a 100-year flood event hit the region. Infrastructure failed across the area. Rising water from the adjacent street system overwhelmed local drainage and pushed groundwater back toward the home. The pressure was so extreme it caused the basement slab to heave upwards over two feet.
And yet—the foundation walls held. Not a drop of water breached the interior. The finishes, mechanicals, and family belongings stayed dry and intact.
Even the structural engineer reviewing the damage remarked on the performance of the waterproofing system—so effective they questioned whether the home had started to float in the saturated ground.
The Outcome
Although the slab required repair, the home avoided what could have been catastrophic losses. Because the critical layers of protection were already in place, the client avoided damage to:
- Finishes and Flooring
- HVAC and Electrical systems
- Stored belongings and Heirlooms
This project is a reminder that resilience isn’t built after the fact. It’s embedded in the details, decisions, and foresight that shape every BPC home.
Why It Matters
We don’t just build homes to pass inspection. We build them to endure—to protect our clients’ investments, comfort, and peace of mind even in the face of extreme events.
Because when the waters rise, there’s no substitute for a home that was built to stand firm.
