Within the intricate maze of home construction and maintenance, moisture and the threat of flooding often lurk beneath the surface, waging a covert siege. Unsurprisingly, for most folks, the most affected part of the home is the most concealed – the basement. Luckily, an approach commonly referred to as “basement tanking” can serve as a protective barrier against this tenacious adversary. How exactly? Let’s take a deeper look.
Within the intricate maze of home construction and maintenance, moisture and the threat of flooding often lurk beneath the surface, waging a covert siege. Unsurprisingly, for most folks, the most affected part of the home is the most concealed – the basement. Luckily, an approach commonly referred to as “basement tanking” can serve as a protective barrier against this tenacious adversary. How exactly? Let’s take a deeper look.
Basement Tanking: What is it?
Being a technical safeguard, basement tanking employs an impermeable membrane to prevent water ingress on a critical level. Without this safeguard in place, the stakes are high; a moisture breach does not merely dampen a homeowner’s spirits but threatens the very structure of a building, the well-being of its occupants, and the financial value it holds. That said, how do you go about putting this precaution in place?
Evaluation and Preparation
The preliminary reconnaissance phase is of utmost importance. The existing condition of the basement, water table levels, and soil composition are all examined with an almost forensic dedication. And any fissures or past scars of water damage are catalogued. Here, the wisdom of a structural engineer might be sought, offering a strategic advantage for what lies ahead.
Choosing Appropriate Materials
When choosing waterproof materials from the loads of options out there, one must exercise caution. The variety of available alternatives – hydrophobic cementitious coatings, malleable liquid membranes, and the more recent self-adhesive sheets – each possesses its advantages and disadvantages. Hence, the ultimate choice is determined by the specific conditions of the basement and your personal preference.
Among these, the cementitious system is the traditional tried and trusted method, highly regarded for its durability and economic prudence. However, this material is not devoid of flaws; if the structure were to shift, its inflexible barrier might buckle. On the contrary, the flexible nature of the liquid membrane offers the assurance of withstanding minor structural breaches and effectively sealing even the most variable cracks.
Being a relatively new invention, self-adhesive sheets provide a speedy resolution, making them a favourite among DIY enthusiasts. However, despite their apparent simplicity, they require an extremely precise overlap technique and meticulous surface preparation.
The Installation Process
The installation ceremony reveals the true artistry and value of basement tanking. Executing this ritual requires a steadfast hand and a patient heart, as it requires strict adherence to the manufacturers’ manual, paying close attention to drying periods and application accuracy.
Yet, the tanking process would be deficient without proper drainage. These drainage systems, whether in the form of French drains or sump pumps, are responsible for deflecting water away from the basement and guaranteeing the longevity of the tanking membrane. This is where having an equipped plumber on board becomes indispensable. They can expertly implement the proper drainage solutions, giving you a water-tight basement tanking system.
Monitoring and Maintenance
However, the tanking process does not conclude with installation. Constant maintenance and surveillance are required to maintain the tank’s integrity. Regular inspections are necessary to detect even the slightest indication of a potential water breach before it is visible and beyond repairable.
Concluding Remarks
Basement tanking is a complex undertaking involving various elements, starting with a thorough inspection and concluding with a continuous demonstration of diligence. In light of the changing climate discourse and the growing importance of resilient infrastructure, basement waterproofing experts are the crucial guardians safeguarding our subterranean havens.
If you’re in London and looking to install a waterproofing tank in your basement, you’ll find a highly-regarded basement waterproofing London professional in London Property Preservation Ltd.
