Choosing the right waterproofing system
Cavity Drainage Membrane
Cavity Drainage Membranes create a barrier within the building on the negative side of water pressure allowing the natural drainage of ground water to enter the structure and be collected behind the system to be effectively dealt with by a pre-designed drainage and pump system.
With every useyourbasement.com conversion a Dual Power Alarm System is installed as standard. These alarms run on mains power, but switch to battery power in the event of a power cut or other mains failure. The battery is trickle charged and will last for several years before it needs replacing. The alarm is triggered if the water rises above the normal operating level.
We also offer the option of a Battery Backup pump, more information on this system can be found in the Add ons section of this website.
The membrane system reduces the risk of condensation and does not put pressure onto the structure of the building unlike cement based systems. In many cases it can be fixed directly onto existing surfaces using sealed fixing plugs.
Aggressive sulphate and salts are completely isolated from the internal finishes.
A correctly installed and maintained system should last for the life of the building providing peace of mind to the occupants.
Cavity Drainage Membranes are manufactured from high quality polymers and are supplied in varying designs from Cavity Drain Floor membrane which is designed with the largest drainage capacity through to plaster base membranes which allow for the application of plaster finishes directly to the membrane.
Our surveyor will specify the appropriate design and products for your project.
Cementitious System
A Cementitious System is applied to the floor and walls of the basement in multi-coat layers, the system is designed to physically hold back water pressure and as such can put un-wanted pressure onto the structure of the building. Unlike Cavity Drainage Membrane, extensive and thorough preparation work must be undertaken, this can include sand blasting or needle gunning to the walls and floors.
A pump and drainage system are not incorporated in this type of waterproofing solution.
A Cementitious System will have a limited life span with a basement environment and in some cases cause severe condensation problems.
In some projects a mixture of the two waterproofing solutions may be incorporated, however in most instances a Cavity Drainage Membrane system will be used as it is the ultimate solution to structural waterproofing.
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