Location: Chatterpie Lane, Combe, Oxfordshire
Type of property: Outdoor space transformed into an indoor wine cellar
Services used:
Materials Used:
Problem: The client wished to convert an outdoor lower-ground space into a functional indoor wine cellar. However, the initial waterproofing system proposed by others did not meet BS8102 standards and would not provide the required level of protection against damp ingress. The challenge was to design and install a compliant waterproofing solution that would make the cellar dry, durable, and suitable for storing valuable a wine collection.
Works completed: Waterproofing design – Our team re-specified the system to meet BS8102 standards, ensuring long-term protection. Phase One: Sump Pump Installation Dust sheet and further protection to the floor and access areas was laid to begin. We provided and installed the Delta V3 sump unit into the ground oversight and set the top of the unit 20mm above the finished slab level, which was the top of the retaining wall footing. Installation of 110mm drainage connection for gully and Detail 129. Phase Two: Membrane Works & Plastering Provision and installation of Delta MS500 membrane to walls – to full ceiling height. Provision and installation of Delta V3 dual sump unit plant with high level alarm and control panel into cast within floor slab. Application of Polysil TG500 sealer to floor surface. Provision and installation of Delta MS20 floor membrane and link to wall membrane. Provision and installation of moisture resistant chipboard over floor membrane. Provision and installation of softwood treated battens over wall membrane, secured to Delta plugs Installation of plasterboard and set coat plaster. Phase Three: Bituthene Installation: Supply and installation of Bituthene 4000 membrane across the lower ground slab and retaining walls, with a continuous link to the upper level. A 3mm protection board was fitted on top to safeguard the membrane. Ground prep: Provide a smooth trowel finish of lean mix surface blinding (a thin layer of low-strength concrete) over compacted hardcore to provide a stable base. Application of two coats of slurry waterproofing to the internal dividing wall up to damp-proof course level. A land drain was specified by us and installed by external contractors around the perimeter of the lower ground area to reduce hydrostatic pressure. And finally, all debris was cleared, leaving the surfaces ready for the client’s internal finishes. Outcome: Over the three phases to this project, we successfully transformed the outdoor space into a dry, structurally protected wine cellar, meeting the client’s design aspirations and ensuring long-term performance. The completed system is backed by a 10-year guarantee, giving the client peace of mind.
Phase One: Sump Pump Installation
Phase Two: Membrane Works & Plastering
Phase Three: Bituthene Installation