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basement damp proofing |
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Basement Damp proofing
| PENETRATING DAMP BELOW GROUND Basement walls, which typically form the foundation of the building, are sited below ground level and below the buildings damp proof course. Accordingly these walls are constantly subject to wet conditions and are susceptible to ground water ingress, the degree of which may be intensified by the presence of positive water pressure, if the water table is high and the drainage system around the outside of the building is poor.. In order to convert uninhabitable, mouldy and damp below-ground structures into habitable and functional basement accommodation it is necessary to introduce a fully sealed waterproof tanking or lining system system to prevent ingress of moisture into the living accommodation. Structural Waterproofing: Walls are stripped back and a multi-coat, pore-blocking slurry is sandwiched between two coats of dense new cement render to create a physical cementitious barrier to water entering the basement area. The tanking slurry contains polymers designed to enhance adhesion and increase tensile strength, which are required for the tanking to withstand the external water pressures and maintain a dry environment. As cementitious tanking systems are not effective vapour barriers, careful consideration to ventilation requirements must be given to reduce the incidence of condensation. |
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Cavity Drain Tanking Membrane: Cavity drain membrane systems can be used in almost all below-ground building structures that are affected by dampness or water ingress. The robust polyethylene basement lining membrane forms a sealed envelope within the building. Its dimpled profile creates a continuous air cavity between the original cellar wall and the back of the membrane, where ample water drainage and air circulation allows underlying substrate to both drain and breath. |
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The dimpled membrane is fixed directly to the existing surfaces using special hammer-in fixing plugs inserted into pre-drilled holes. A rubber grommet fits over the shaft of the plug, providing a water-seal once the plug is hammered home. |
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Butyl rubber sealant tapes are used where membranes meet and overlap to provide watertight joints even at corners and floor/wall junctions. Conventional dimpled membranes can be dry lined with treated battens onto which plasterboard can be fixed. The special hammer-in brick plugs have a female socket-like head to accommodate batten screws without damage to the membrane |
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Mesh faced membranes offer opportunity for a dot and dab plasterboard finish that can be directly applied without need for battens. |
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With little preparation and no drying process the studded or dimpled membrane system offer the simplest, most effective and trouble free form of basement waterproofing, enabling neglected, mouldy and dank basements to be transformed into wonderful cosy living areas in no time at all. |
| For free assistance in matters relating to basement lining systems in domestic housing phone the Twistfix technical help and advice line on 0845 123 6006 or visit www.twistfix.co.uk |