Tanking systems are applied to either the positive pressure side or the negative pressure side of a substrate. Positive tanking pressure is achieved when the hydrostatic water pressure is pushing tanking onto the substrate. Negative tanking pressure is where the tanking system is applied to the other side of a wall and the hydrostatic water pressure will try to push the tanking of the substrate. Successful tanking on the negative side is difficult and requires a more comprehensive specification.
When tanking existing basements internally then products such as asphalt, self adhesive membranes or liquid applied membranes all require a supporting vertical brick or blockwork lining wall, which is normally backfilled with sand/cement mix and a minimum 50 mm sand/cement screed. Such systems incur space penalties unlike the Lifecote Systems, which can be applied direct to the substrate with a final thickness of less than 5 mm without the necessity of a supporting backfilled wall. The treatment can be applied to both walls and floors.
Tanking is the creation of a watertight envelope. If there is hydrostatic water pressure present or possible high water table in the future, then the floor must also be tanked to complete the watertight integrity. If continuity is not achieved, or where different systems cannot be tied effectively together, then the system will remain vulnerable to possible water ingress. Where continuity has not been achieved, e.g. for commercial reasons at the clients instruction, then this should be unambiguously identified for future reference. We would recommend identifying such areas as 'sectional tanking' with liability restricted to those areas actually tanked.
Lifecote has extensive experience with tanking systems over the last 14 years and have undertaken over 1000 tanking applications across the UK.
Cementitious "tanking" and epoxy systems are a traditional method of waterproofing and can be used as an alternative to cavity drain membranes in certain applications. Cementitious systems are suited to contracts where limited areas are to be treated or where drainage cannot be easily achieved. These systems can also be used in combination with cavity drain membranes, most commonly where headroom is limited or where there is a flat soffit with no drainage falls.
Single component, polymer modified cement "tanking" system for walls and floors
Highly effective damp proof membrane for brickwork, concrete or any cementitious substrate
Surfaces to be treated should be correctly prepared, free from all loose materials and contaminants and be in a sound and solid condition. For application to floors products should be applied directly to the structural slab. For wall applications products should be sandwiched between sand/cement render coats. For all applications, special attention should be given to wall/floor junctions.
NB: Fillet Seal is a pre-packed, cement based and polymer modified product for use as a floor to wall junction seal during waterproofing works when using cementitious slurry coatings and renders. Fillet Seal helps to ensure a smooth transition between horizontal and vertical surfaces which minimises the risk of leaving gaps or holes unsealed during the waterproofing works.
An Example of a Lifecote Tanking Project
This was a damp cellar at a property in Hertfordshire.
The current owners only had one reception room and required an additional area for their expanding family.
Wall preperation.
The walls and floor are prepared ready for the cellar conversion.
.
The floor and walls are repaired and the structural Water Proofing Begins.
The Walls are ready for insulation and plastering.
The Ceiling insulation process and plastering.
The Project is complete.
The property has been valued at £25,000 more with two dry reception rooms rather than one.
Simply call us today to undertake a free survey and quotation:
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