Tanking membrane and floodwater management systems provide a dependable basement waterproofing solution.

When planning a basement conversion consideration must be given to the accumulation of hydrostatic water pressure that can result in the penetration of groundwater into the cellar through cracks and at vulnerable wall junctions.

What are the options for robust basement waterproofing measures that will keep damp and water at bay?

• External waterproofing membranes are used for capping or for new construction projects with underground cellar space. A double-layered geotextile membrane is fixed on the outside of the wall, before backfilling, to prevent water from entering the cellar walls.
• Cement tanking slurry is painted onto the inside of cellar walls to hold back the damp. Walls using a basement tanking slurry for structural waterproofing behave like a dam to stop water penetration.
• Cavity drain membrane is fixed over the walls and floors of cellar areas in existing buildings. The membrane incorporates stand-off studs to create a continuous air-gap from which water can drain, leaving the plastered finishes unaffected.

In our opinion basement tanking in existing buildings is best carried out with waterproof membrane systems. The membranes are supplied in a variety of roll sizes and stud depths. Finishing options include fixing studs and drywall to the membranes or, for membranes that incorporate a thermally bonded mesh, the direct application of plaster or plasterboard adhesive.

The studded waterproof membrane isolates wet cellar walls and floors from dry internal surfaces. Behind the membrane, any water seeping through the walls drains into channels and sumps before being silently pumped away - simple, efficient and cost-effective.

Basement tanking membrane is a quick and easy solution to basement waterproofing issues.