Basement Tanking

Basement Waterproofing in London Homes

Basement tanking is a term that refers to waterproofing below-ground living space and due to the layer of clay that London sits on, a high level of water retention presents a serious threat to London basements. Many London properties have basements/cellars; Victorian terraced houses commonly have below-ground living space, many of which have been converted to self-contained flats and waterproofing is in high demand, due to the wet ground. Repairing the damage caused by moisture penetration is pointless if the source of the damp penetration has not been addressed.

What is Basement Tanking?

This is a treatment that involves the removal of all damaged plaster, render and timber, then the substrate is correctly waterproofed and waterproof plaster/render is applied. Several coats are applied, each allowed to fully dry before applying the next. This treatment involves all walls and ceilings, while flooring requires waterproof screed/cement of numerous coats.

Cavity Drainage System

A popular alternative to basement tanking, installing a cavity drainage system guarantees a basement will remain dry and the process requires the basement to be completely emptied. The process begins with the stripping of all plaster, both damaged and undamaged; then the substrate is carefully prepared and all debris is removed, leaving the walls and ceilings cleaned and ready for the cavity membrane.

Studded Waterproof Membrane

Sheets of special membrane are fitted to the walls and ceilings, which are studded to create a small cavity for water to drain into special channels set into the flooring. Once the studded membrane is installed, waterproof render can be applied to the surfaces and when that is fully dry, a skim of waterproof plaster is applied as a finish and paint or wallpaper can be fitted.

Interior Separation

The entire inner space is now separated from the exterior, with a cavity for water drainage that sends water into a special sump area under the floor, where it is pumped to designated drainage points. This system is best suited for basements with serious moisture issues and when installed correctly, it provides 100% protection against moisture penetration.

The Importance of Ventilation

Underground living space demands a high level of ventilation to prevent the onset of damp and mould; you can obtain basement ventilation systems that are designed to work silently in the background, keeping the air moving, which prevents the onset of mould. Extractor fans can be installed, which provide fully adjustable air movement, keeping the interior free from damp and mould.

The Importance of Professional Basement Surveys

Prior to carrying out basement tanking, it is important to first survey the property in order to identify damp issues and make the best treatment recommendations. London Damp Specialists have been surveying London basements, providing homeowners with accurate assessments and treatment recommendations. Repairing damage caused by damp is pointless if you do not identify the root cause and carry out effective damp-proofing work. It is not always evident when damp impacts a basement, therefore regular inspections are advised to give you an early warning, which minimises damage control.

Damp-Proofing New Basement Builds

The ideal time to waterproof a basement is during the construction; you can contact us during the planning stages and we can advise you on the best long-term solution to ensure the basement is completely dry at all times. When we survey a property under construction, we can recommend a leading basement tanking company in London and we can offer a ballpark quote for the damp-proofing work.

Damp-Proofing Existing Basements

Most of our customers have existing basements/cellars that have moisture issues and regions with a high water table are challenging when it comes to waterproofing below-ground living space. A top damp-proofing contractor would issue a long guarantee on their work, which is a sign of their confidence in their workmanship.

Start with an Independent Damp Survey

If you are experiencing damp issues or have noticed tell-tale signs in your London home, contact London Damp Specialists and book an independent damp survey. One of our PCA-certified surveyors will inspect the entire building, not just the basement and provide you with an accurate assessment and you will receive a detailed report in your inbox the following day.