Basement Damp Proofing

If you are considering extending your property into an existing basement, cellar or vault, damp proofing is the most important aspect of the whole project. Because these areas have walls constructed below ground, considerable damp can penetrate laterally, under hydrostatic pressure. This will need to be controlled or blocked, which is a complex process and should only be carried out by a specialist company. With the price of property in London and the home counties always at a premium and the cost of moving becoming ever more expensive, it makes more sense than ever to stay in your existing property and utilise the space you have.

Every basement, cellar or vault is unique and is likely to be used for a variety of  different reasons, so it is important you decide what you will use yours for, so all the services can be installed, in conjunction with the Damp Proofing  being carried out. There are a lot of things to be considered before you start your new project and this is something Tapco HomeDry  can help you with.

The two main methods of basement damp proofing used by us are:

Cavity drain membrane systems. These are usually used for larger areas or complete basement conversions. They are strong, versatile, studded Polyethylene membranes that we fix to walls and ceilings, using special waterproof fixings, loose laid over floors and joined together, creating a complete system. Rather than block the moisture, this system of damp proofing is designed to allow moisture in, so we can direct it into special drainage channels and into a pump station, to be pumped out to a designated place chosen by us. When the installation is complete, insulation can be installed and the membrane can either be dry-lined or plastered directly onto, creating new, warm dry rooms for years to come.

Structural water proofing (Tanking). This method of damp proofing, commonly known as tanking, can either be used on small  localised areas or complete basements or cellars. It comprises of a special cementitious, waterproof system that is applied to structures that are below ground, to block the incoming damp. Once the old plaster has been removed and the walls are prepared, we apply a gauged waterproof scratch coat of render. Once this has dried, we apply three slurry coats of the structural waterproofing system, allowing each coat to cure before applying the next. Another waterproof coat of render is then applied, prior to plastering to a smooth finish.

Both of these are proven systems and are covered by a Tapco HomeDry long term guarantee. We are proud to be a long term member of the Property Care Association (PCA), the Basement Waterproofing Association (BWA), a certified ISO 9001:2015 quality management company and a 5-star Which? Trusted Trader. We are also a Delta and Sovereign membrane, approved installation company and a company you can trust.