Basement Waterproofing & Tanking Specialists
Converting damp basements and other spaces below ground level into dry rooms can be a cost-effective and highly rewarding way of extending a home or utilising space within an existing property.
Property Conservation Services Ltd specialises in the provision of waterproofing systems that are employed to upgrade existing basement rooms, waterproof new buildings or convert damp, unused spaces below ground into dry habitable rooms.
Structural waterproofing below ground is a highly specialised operation and must be undertaken by contractors and designers who have the requisite levels of skill, understanding and experience. Failures resulting from inadequate specifications or poor workmanship can be very costly. Property Conservation Services Ltd specialises in structural waterproofing are able to work with the client to design a suitable waterproofing solution.
Waterproofing in existing underground structures is usually undertaken by applying tanking membranes to the inside walls and floors or by using drained cavity technology.
Waterproofing techniques are defined in BS8102, the British Standard for “Protection of structures against water from the ground”. Members of the PCA must demonstrate an understanding of this standard and the Association’s code of practice for underground waterproofing. The PCA also requires that surveyors providing guidance on waterproofing must demonstrate their competence by gaining the “Certificated Surveyor in Structural Waterproofing” (CSSW) qualification.
Structural Tanking Systems
The two types of waterproofing system commonly used in existing structures are:
Adhered waterproof membranes or “Type A” waterproofing systems (as defined in BS8102) are commonly multi-coat renders, cement-based coatings, bituminous paints or epoxy coatings. This form of waterproofing provides an unbroken barrier to water. These systems are applied to clean walls and floors and are usually protected and held in place by floor screeds, renders, plasters or other “loading coats”.
Cavity drainage systems or “Type C” waterproofing usually utilise pre-formed high-density drainage membranes, channels and sumps. These are designed to direct any water entering the structure back out in a controlled and managed way.
Typically, cavity drain membranes are installed to the walls and floors these direct water into drainage channels. The channels then allow water to be directed to sumps or drains so that it can be removed safely from the building.
Members of the PCA who specialise in structural waterproofing are able to consider the nature of the building and the client’s design requirements to ensure that the correct method of waterproofing is selected and executed to the highest standard.
Case Studies
Basement Conversion Oxford – How it Works
Basement Tanking Specialists
With those trying to raise the value of their properties by converting their basement into a habitable space, these below-ground spaces are at risk from water permeating the walls.
Our experienced teams can place a waterproof barrier to protect the inside space of your basement. This is often the first, and most important, step in converting your basement into a useful living space. We use a waterproof membrane which is suitable for all types of below-ground structures.
With a specialist surveyor, you’ll get a waterproofed basement designed with the prime purpose of protecting your property from outside water keeping your habitable living space dry.
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