Damp Proofing and Property and Preservation in Cambridge UK Anglia

Basement Waterproofing, Cambridge

Before the Conversion

After the conversion

Background:

A Large Victorian property converted in to flats. The basement of this particular one bedroom tenanted flat was used as the bedroom. After a heavy rainfall the basement flooded due to the failure of the existing waterproofing system and water pooled to a depth of 5cm throughout the basement area. The tenant had to vacate the property whilst the landlord allowed the area to dry out and subsequently improve the living condition of the bedroom.

The Work Required:

In order to improve the conditions in the basement which is classed as a Grade 3 area in accordance with the code of practice for protection of structures against water from the ground BS8102, it was necessary to install an effective waterproofing system.

A Cavity Drain Membrane System was used, one of the main advantages of the

Damp Proofing and Property and Preservation in Cambridge UK Anglia

being that the cavity drain membrane system as opposed to a cementitious system is that they do not stop water at the point of entry, so hydrostatic pressure is not increased any more than it would be without a waterproofing system.

This means the building does not suffer

from additional stresses, which could cause movement or structural failure. The use of the Delta system is normally welcomed by the Local Authority Conservation Officers as in principal it makes few changes to the structure of the building and if ever removed the building "as was" would be revealed, which is an advantage when working in listed buildings.

The Schedule of work:

Floor and wall surfaces were prepared including the removal of electrical fittings. A sump pump was supplied and fitted, the purpose of which was to pump out water entering the basement laterally below ground level.

Damp Proofing and Property and Preservation in Cambridge UK Anglia

An Alarm to sound in the event of an excessively high water level was fitted to the sump. To prevent flooding to the completed conversion in the event of a power failure a battery back up unit was supplied and fitted. Delta cavity drain membrane was supplied and fixed to the walls and floors by qualified and experienced technicians.

Damp Proofing and Property and Preservation in Cambridge UK Anglia

Battens and plasterboard were fixed to the walls to provide a smooth surface for the applications of a smooth 'skim' plaster finish and a new chipboard floor was laid. Electrical fittings were then reinstated and the property was left ready for redecoration.

Damp Proofing and Property and Preservation in Cambridge UK Anglia