Waterproofing in Construction

Whenever you are involved with creating a structure that is partly below ground level, you will want to have a waterproofing specialist around to help.  The idea is that the building can be created with the right waterproofing systems in place from the start and architects and design teams can work with the waterproofing specialist to ensure the building is ready for whatever challenges it faces.

Why waterproofing is needed

As part of the British Standard, you need to ensure that any building has the right waterproofing system in place when there are areas below ground level.  This might be a basement, cellar or simply floors that are underground. Parking structures, storage areas or extra space for a home, these all need the right waterproofing as part of the construction process.

By working with an expert in this area, you can get the latest, state of the art systems installed into the building and ensure that they function as the construction progresses.  This also means you can get the specialist’s sign off for the project to hand over to the building owner when complete.

Preparing for construction

When a new building is being created, one of the first things to consider is the drainage around the site, especially with the increased risk of flooding that the UK has seen in recent times.  SuDS or Suitable Drainage Systems are a key part of allowing construction sites to handle water at a rate that the surrounding drains can cope with and therefore reducing the chance of a flood while work is being carried out.

Many sites have no simple way to divert water without overflowing the drainage system and that’s why SuDS is required.  It is needed for sites that are building on clay, with a high water table, sites near a riverside, with ecological restraints or in built-up areas.  Small or enclosed sites are also challenging where some systems cannot work.

Waterproofing consultancy

The other big area handled by a waterproofing consultancy is ensuring that the building itself is waterproofed in the right ways.  There are a variety of different approaches including internal and external ways to waterproof a property. A lot will depend on the location, the type of building and whether it is a completely new property or a renovation.

For new build properties, there are options to waterproof the outside of the building or to add membranes and drainage systems inside the below ground level areas.  Along with a sump pump, these can remove water from the areas below ground. These systems are often best used for renovation projects where there is no easy access to the outside of the building.

Prepare for the worst

By waterproofing from the start, your business can ensure you don’t face problems with damp issues down the line – which is almost inevitable in underground areas without the right drainage in place.  By working with an expert, you can ensure that the site has the best drainage possible and also that the property is protected against the worst case scenarios.