Making use of cellars and basements beneath properties is proving an increasingly popular way of gaining extra room, not least as it can boost usable space by up to 50% with minimal interference from planning or any change to facades. Whether new build or existing, basements present particular technical and construction challenges for which Safeguard Europe, the UK’s leading specialist in damp- and waterproofing, and masonry repairs, delivers comprehensive solutions and superb technical support.
The company offers a comprehensive suite of damp-proofing and tanking products that enable contractors, developers and property owners to realise this extra space; whether for living, working or storage. Among its premium brands are Oldroyd drainage membranes, Vandex cementitious waterproofers, Aquadrain drainage channels and the Safeguard sump systems – all of which deliver cost-effective, reliable installations.
There is no single solution to tanking and waterproofing, as there are three types of waterproofing system to choose from – barrier protection, structurally integral protection and drained protection: all of which have their strengths and weaknesses according to the circumstances.
New basements can, for example, be protected using any one of five possible combinations of products, such as the Safeguard Europe external basement waterproofing system where Vandex BB75E elasticised waterproofing slurry forms the primary waterproofing system and is applied directly onto the basement wall by trowel or spray. A secondary drainage and protection layer is provided by Oldroyd Gtx geocomposite drainage membrane, which lessens the stress put on the primary waterproofing system and reduces water ingress caused by structural movement. The vulnerable construction joint between the basement wall and the slab is reinforced by the use of Vandex Construction Joint Tape.
Existing basements can be made habitable using any of three combinations of products, such as the Internal Cavity Drain Basement Waterproofing System. This works through installing Oldroyd Xv, an internally-applied cavity drain system that diverts any water entering the basement towards the Safeguard sump and Sentry pump which safely removes the water from the building.
Full information on all these issues – together with details on CPD courses on waterproofing new and existing basements – can be found on www.cellars.co.uk, the industry-leading resource created by Safeguard Europe. This easily navigable site examines the issues involved and solutions required in conversions and new build, the different generic waterproofing systems available together with their benefits and drawbacks.
The site provides full details of the design and detail required for each form of basement construction, together with CAD drawings that can be downloaded in PDF, DWG or TCW format. The website offers the industry a valuable tool in planning both new basements and basement conversions, continuing Safeguard Europe’s commitment to providing clients and customers with the information they need in the most convenient format.
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