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Waterproofing Design and System Specialists
Sound waterproofing design is vitally important to the success of any structure below ground level. Whether you need a waterproofing system designed at a pre-construction stage or a system designed around an existing structure, the experts at Wise Basement Systems can design a functional and effective waterproofing system that will keep your space dry.
Wise Basement Systems can design a bespoke basement waterproofing system that fits your needs.
Waterproofing Design in Construction
When constructing or renovating a structure below ground level a waterproofing specialist should always be included as part of the design team. Waterproofing is so vital that the British Standards Institute even dedicates part of its BS 8102:20022 code of practice to the role a waterproofing specialist plays in any project below ground level.
In the past, an architect has often taken responsibility for waterproofing design, however many would acknowledge that they lack the training or expertise necessary to consider themselves waterproofing specialists.
This highlights the importance of involving experts like Wise Basement Systems to make sure your project is fit for purpose.
How do you decide on the best Waterproofing System?
When deciding the best method for designing a waterproofing system, Wise Property Care always follow the recommendations within The British Standards Institute BS8102:20022 “Code of Practice for Protection of Below Ground Structures Against Water From the Ground”. This code of practice covers the different types of waterproofing available and also details the performance grade a system needs to achieve.
Wise Basement Systems can provide waterproofing systems for all 3 types of waterproofing defined in BS8102.
Waterproofing Systems and Designs
When it comes to basement waterproofing, there are three main types of basement waterproofing systems available for your property, ranging from traditional methods like tanking to more modern internal water management systems.
TRADITIONAL TANKING SYSTEMS
Basement tanking is a traditional form of basement waterproofing. It involves putting a waterproof render such as a waterproof cement or slurry on the internal walls to form a ‘tank’ that stops the water from entering. The render gives a smooth, seamless wall surface which looks good and provides moisture control.
Being a traditional form of basement waterproofing, there are issues with this basement waterproofing system particularly if the area you live in is susceptible to ground movement or vibrations. That said, it can be an ideal solution for certain spaces.
EXTERIOR BASEMENT WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS
Basement waterproofing from the outside is another concept that has been around for a long time. Exterior basement waterproofing systems are often installed to protect foundations of properties during construction.
In recent years, the most common form of exterior waterproofing is the use of either an external membrane or cementitious render on the external foundations in conjunction with a traditional French drain that runs along the outside of the property, below ground. This helps manage excessive levels of ground water that can cause hydrostatic pressure to build up against underground foundations.
While this solution can be successful in construction projects, it is not ideal as a retrofit solution as it does involve serious excavation. Retro-fit French drains are also susceptible to clogging from surrounding slit and soil.
INTERNAL BASEMENT WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS
Basement waterproofing from the inside is the most modern method of basement waterproofing. Originally pioneered in the USA, these clever “water management” systems are now used worldwide. Rather than allowing ground water pressure to build up against a cementitious barrier or an external membrane, water ingress is instead allowed to enter the property and then channelled back out using a combination of internal membranes and innovative basement drainage systems. A sump pump will then remove any water safely and efficiently. This method ensures that basements, cellars or any other space below ground level can remain dry without any external excavation. These systems also remove the risk of ground water pressure building up to a point that a physical barrier would crack.
Moreover, there is one last major bonus… these systems tend to be far more cost effective and easier to install.
The Different Grades of Waterproofing
Waterproofing systems are also subject to a grade rating. This grade relates to how effective the waterproofing system needs to be. The waterproofing grade ratings relate to how effective the waterproofing system needs to be. In some instances, such as industrial environments, some water ingress will be tolerated. Whereas in other environments, such as domestic basement conversions, no dampness whatsoever can be tolerated.
- Grade 1 – Some water seepage and damp is tolerable depending on the intended use. Car parks etc.
- Grade 2 – No water penetration is acceptable. Damp areas are tolerable depending on the end use. boiler rooms, workshops etc.
- Grade 3 – No dampness or water penetration is acceptable – Ventilated residential and commercial areas such as homes, offices, shops etc.
Wise Basement Systems will be able to recommend the appropriate grade of waterproofing for your project and relate that grade to the “type” of waterproofing that will be applied.
The Different Types of Waterproofing
The different waterproofing “types” relate to the actual make-up of the waterproofing system used. These range from simple water barriers to integrated solutions and retrofit internal waterproofing systems. Below-ground level waterproofing systems come under three separate types – Types A, B and C:
- Type A (Barrier) protection – A barrier to water ingress is applied to the inner or outer surface of the structure
- Type B (Structurally Integral) protection – The structure is formed as a watertight construction and requires no additional protection
- Type C (Drained) protection – Water entering the structure is received by planned cavities or voids and safely removed
Which of the above is applied will depend entirely on the end result your project requires. Our expert surveyors and technicians will be able to explain, design and install the appropriate type for you.
Again, the grade required by each project is different and Wise Property Care will be able to recommend the appropriate grade of waterproofing for you.
Type-A Waterproofing
The Type-A Waterproofing grade is defined by The British Standards Institute’s BS8102:2022 (Code of practice for protection of below ground structures against water from the ground) as ‘barrier protection’.
This means a material, such as waterproof cement, is applied that will offer a barrier to water ingress from outside. When applied to basements and cellars this type of waterproofing will often be referred to as basement tanking. Type A waterproofing is a system similar to basement tanking – it offers a barrier to the passage of water.
Type-A waterproofing systems are suitable for many different applications including underground storage rooms, underground car parks or garages, earth retaining walls and swimming pools. Type-A waterproofing systems are perfect for Grade 1 waterproofing, but may be unsuitable for Grade 2 or 3 waterproofing depending on the circumstances.
Type-B Waterproofing
Type-B Waterproofing grade is defined by BS8102:2022 as the structure itself being an integral water-resistant shell. This means that any structural waterproofing in a Type B systems is integrated into the structure at the time of construction. Invariably this means a build of reinforced concrete supplemented with a method of controlling water ingress at construction joints (such as a hydrophilic waterbar).
To be classed as a Type-B waterproofing system, a basement must be designed within certain strict parameters to ensure it is water resistant. Type-B waterproofing would typically achieve Grade 2 waterproofing results, but it is very versatile, so this is not necessarily the limit of its application. Your waterproofing contractor will be able to advise further. Type-B waterproofing is an integrated system that will usually consist of hydrophilic waterbars or metal waterbars installed into reinforced high-grade concrete.
Type-C Waterproofing
Type-C Waterproofing is defined by BS8102:2022 as where the structure itself provides the initial resistance against water ingress but also incorporates a drained cavity within the basement structure. The structure will permanently rely on the cavity drainage system to collect groundwater ingress through the structure and direct it to drains or a sump pump for removal.
Modern interior basement waterproofing systems that use cavity wall membrane, drainage systems and sump pumps would be classed as Type-C waterproofing. Type-C waterproofing systems are ideal for achieving Grade 3 levels of waterproofing. A good example of Type-C waterproofing would be a modern internal basement waterproofing system. These systems typically consist of some kind of waterproofing membrane, drainage channel and sump pump.
Why Choose Wise Property Care
As the country's leading specialists, we offer the personalised service of a local branch backed by the strength of a nationwide company. Our highly qualified team utilises top-tier materials, including innovative wall waterproofing solutions and award-winning sump pumps, all supported by a meaningful guarantee for lasting peace of mind.
If you're seeking a dry, clean, and usable basement or cellar, Wise Property Care provides the complete solution. We deliver clear, practical advice and manage every step of the process, ensuring on-site quotes and timescales, a tidy completion, and added value to your property. Our standard 10-year guarantee and CSSW-qualified surveyors further ensure the highest quality workmanship and lasting protection for your home.
Contact our Basement Waterproofing Experts
Understanding the problems that underground structures face when it comes to waterproofing can be complicated. At Wise Property Care, we live and breathe basement waterproofing. It is our passion and area of expertise.
To speak to a structural waterproofing expert about your basement or cellar, call wise Property Care today or contact an expert online using our contact form
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