Basement is the underground floor of a building below the ground floor. These are generally used for car parking, air conditioning system, water heater and others. Basements are typically used as the utility space. Nowadays, the conversion of a basement from cold, damp storage area to cosy living has been increased. Converted cellars and basement can be transformed into wide range of domestic spaces including the kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms etc.
Tanking is the term often used to refer to the waterproofing of the basement/cellars. Tanking is defined as a continuous and completely waterproof membrane applied over a masonry surface, preventing the entry of water into the building.
Basement tanking is the process of stopping the water from entering into the building. Many buildings contain uninhabitable, mouldy and damp basement walls with no waterproofing protection. In order to waterproof underground structures and convert them into habitable and functional basement accommodation it is necessary to provide a fully sealed basement waterproofing or tanking system to ensure the moisture in the walls and floors is not permitted to migrate to the internal wall surfaces.
What are tanking systems?
There are many methods of tanking designed to deal with the moisture from high and below ground levels. These are divided in three categories:
1. Cement based tanking: This is the oldest method of waterproofing used by many companies. A coat of mixture of sand and cement called water proof render is applied on the previously made wall to stop water entering into the tanked area.
2. Cavity Drained Membrane System: It is a polythene studded sheet which is fixed to the walls; floor or ceiling with specially designed plugs with fitted seals. It creates a cavity between damp masonry and a new wall surface. The base of the wall carries a drain channel which normally runs to a sump pump or manhole thus relieving water pressure. It manages the water pressure by allowing the water to drain away, eliminating the risk of pushing the water elsewhere. The major advantage of this technique is that it can be repaired very easily if there is a failure.
3. Slurry Systems: It is cement based system, two parts flexible coatings which come pre-packed in the powder form. The surface is prepared and the salt inhibitor applied on the wall. The slurry than applied by brush.
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