New Build Basements by Mark Gillen, Technical Manager, Sovereign Chemicals Ltd


Unlike most of Europe the inclusion of a basement level in the design of UK modern domestic properties has long been overlooked, however new build basements are definitely having a renaissance as their many benefits fit perfectly the needs of contemporary living.


So, waterproofing below ground structure in new developments; when do you plan, decide on a system, and, design it in?


It seems that in the past waterproofing systems were almost an afterthought and as such have resulted in many a headache for architects, engineers, in fact the whole design team and of course you the customer which can result in professional relationship problems and disputes.


Thankfully this is now a thing of the past.


BS8102:1990 has been revised to BS8102:2009 “Code of Practice and Protection of below ground structures against water from the ground” and there are as you would expect changes. One of the most significant changes as far as Sovereign Chemicals Ltd is concerned has to be the recommendation that a ‘waterproofing specialist’ is consulted at the design stage. BS8102:2009: (4.2 Design team) states: “A waterproofing specialist should be included as part of the design team so that an integrated waterproofing solution is created. The waterproofing specialist should: a. Be suitably experienced.


b. Be capable of devising solutions that accommodate the various project constraints and needs.


c. Provide the design team with information and guidance that assists with and influences the design, installation and future maintenance of the waterproofed structure.


It is important that when making a decision on the form of waterproofing and the position of the system that site conditions, ground water levels, soil types and customer expectations are all taken into account.


Working together is the standard’s new message


For over 20 years Sovereign Chemicals Ltd has been complying with and promoting this recommendation by providing design solutions, on site consultations and individual written specifications for the successful waterproofing of below ground structures.


SYSTEMS


So what systems are available? Many, is the answer, but all systems will fall into one of three categories as defined in BS8102:2009. These are:


Sovereign have clearly seen the need for options early on and have continued tirelessly to develop and improve both our products and industry renowned technical service.


‘The possibilities are endless’ www.sovchem.co.uk


01229 870800 Reader Enquiry: 5


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Type A - Tanked Protection


The application of a bonded waterproofing system. Commonly referred to as Tanking.


These types of system are designed to wholly prevent physical ground water from penetrating the structural walls and floors. Typical products used to provide Type A protection are liquid applied membranes such as epoxy or bitumous products, self- adhesive sheet systems and cementitious compounds.


Type B - Integral Protection


This form of waterproofing relies upon the structure itself to form a water resistant shell to resist ground water penetration. Typically Type B forms are constructed using specially designed concrete incorporating steel reinforcement. Walls and floors are structurally linked with waterbars placed at construction joint detail. Traditionally Type B is created in larger scale commercial and civils development, however, we are seeing an increased use in new domestic construction.


Type C - Drained Protection


The principle of this form of waterproofing is to allow ground water to penetrate the structure so not to allow hydrostatic pressure build up. This method manages penetrating water by guiding it to an internal drainage system via a sealed isolating dimpled sheet membrane and directing it to a suitable discharge point outside of the building. The correct design of the drainage system is critical to its success.


Sovereign technical team are qualified surveyors of structural waterproofing systems (CSSW) and are there to offer advice and assistance on the appropriate design and system application for the project at hand. Sovereign offers two forms of structural waterproofing system:  


Hey’di K11 (Type A) SovDrain (Type C)


Both Sovereign’s Type A and Type C systems have the benefit of third party accreditation in the form of BBA Certification and have been tried and tested for many years.


With over 1500 written specifications produced annually there is clearly a requirement for professional guidance in waterproofing solutions but remember when it comes to choosing a system it’s not ‘one size fits all’, rather what is best for the structure once all design considerations have been addressed.


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