Water intrusion is a common challenge for many homeowners in Waterford, CT, especially when basement access points like hatchway doors begin to rust or deteriorate. For one local resident, the aging and heavily rusted Bilco door on their property had become more than just an eyesore it was a water entry point during rainstorms. That’s when Budget Dry Waterproofing stepped in with a long-lasting, custom-fit solution.
Identifying the Problem
Sue Evans, a homeowner in Waterford, reached out to our team after noticing consistent moisture near her basement entry. Upon inspection, it was immediately clear why. The existing hatchway door was badly rusted, with clear gaps around the seams and corrosion eating away at the frame. Years of exposure to the elements had taken a toll, and the once-reliable Bilco door had become a vulnerability allowing water to leak into the entryway during heavy rains.
Not only was the door itself compromised, but the concrete foundation it sat on was worn and cracked. The entire area needed professional restoration to ensure long-term protection and a clean, safe entry into the basement.
Crafting the Right Solution
The Budget Dry Waterproofing crew got to work right away. Our first step was to safely remove the old, rusted hatchway door. This involved carefully lifting the corroded panels and cleaning out decades of built-up rust, debris, and deteriorated concrete. Once removed, we turned our focus to the concrete pad beneath.
We restored the concrete surface completely reforming the structure to ensure it was level, durable, and ready to support a new installation. This part is crucial for the longevity of any new hatchway system; without a solid base, even the best doors can fail prematurely.
Once the concrete cured, we installed a custom-fit steel hatchway door specifically designed for Sue’s home. Unlike the generic, one-size-fits-all models, this new unit was fabricated to perfectly match the concrete surround and the angle of the entryway. It came equipped with modern gas struts for smooth opening, weather-resistant seals to block out moisture, and a locking handle for enhanced security.
Delivering Lasting Results
With the new hatchway door in place, Sue’s basement access is now fully secure and protected from water intrusion. The durable steel construction and weather-sealed design offer long-term peace of mind no more rust, no more leaks, and no more worries when rain is in the forecast.
The newly poured concrete not only enhances the structural integrity of the entryway but also gives the area a clean, finished appearance. Compared to the original rust-streaked entry, the transformation is dramatic.
For homeowners in Waterford, CT, dealing with rusted or leaky basement doors, this project is a great example of how professional solutions from Budget Dry can restore both function and curb appeal.
A Reliable Fix for Waterford Homes
If you live in Waterford, CT, and have an old hatchway or Bilco door that’s seen better days, don’t wait until the next big storm causes water damage. A leaky basement entry isn’t just a nuisance it can lead to mold, structural problems, and costly repairs. Contact the team at Budget Dry Waterproofing to get a custom solution that lasts. Whether you need a full concrete rebuild or just a replacement door, we’re here to help keep your basement dry, safe, and secure.
📞 Call today or visit BudgetDry.com to schedule your free estimate!

Budget Dry is based in Killingworth, Connecticut and has been recognized as the areas leading basement waterproofing and foundation repair company.
We are passionate about providing the absolute best service to each home and homeowner we encounter, because we understand just how important your home is to you. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and use of cutting edge industry technology.
Budget Dry Basement Waterproofing is a leader in Basement waterproofing and basement restoration. Every Basement flood, leak or crack is evaluated thoroughly to ensure that we provide you with the best solution. So you can be secure and confident in the knowledge that Budget Dry treats the problem, not the symptom!