Why Basement Waterproofing Requires More Than Paint
Basements and underground structures are continuously exposed to moisture contained within surrounding soil.
Depending on groundwater conditions, this water may also exert hydrostatic pressure against walls and slabs.
For this reason, below-ground waterproofing should ideally create a continuous barrier around vulnerable structural elements.
One solution is the use of sheet membrane systems.
APP Modified Bituminous Membranes
APP-modified bituminous membranes are widely used for waterproofing:
- retaining walls;
- foundations;
- basement walls;
- flat roofs;
- podiums;
- balconies; and
- terraces.
Depending on the selected product, the membrane may be torch-applied to a properly prepared and primed substrate.
Correct installation requires careful attention to membrane overlaps, corners, terminations and penetrations.
EPDM Waterproofing
EPDM is a flexible synthetic-rubber membrane used for selected waterproofing applications.
Because of its flexibility and durability, it may be advantageous where movement accommodation is important.
APP and EPDM should, however, be understood as different technologies. APP is a modified bituminous membrane, whereas EPDM is a synthetic rubber system.
Waterproofing Continuity
The weakest point in a waterproofing system is frequently not the middle of the membrane.
Failure normally occurs around:
- pipe penetrations;
- corners;
- wall-to-slab junctions;
- terminations;
- construction joints;
- damaged membrane areas; or
- poorly executed laps.
This makes detailing and site workmanship just as important as selecting the waterproofing product.
Tetrabuild approaches basement waterproofing as a complete system incorporating membranes, concrete treatment, drainage and joint waterproofing where required.
