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SITE GUIDE

site Basement

guide
waterproofing
 Foreword
This publication is one of a series related to basements for housing. It has been produced under the direction of the
Basement Development Group, which was initiated and is co-sponsored by the British Cement Association.

Acknowledgements
The British Cement Association (BCA) is grateful to the British Structural Waterproofing Association (BSWA) for co-
sponsoring this publication. It is also grateful for the assistance and comments provide by members of the Basement
Development Group and to the considerable work of its Waterproofing Task Group in drafting and progressing this
publication. Thanks are also extended to all others who provided input to and comments on the preparatory drafts.

Basement Development Group Waterproofing Task Group

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B Aspin (Chairman), House Builders Federation A K Tovey (Chairman), Tecnicom

A K Tovey (Secretary), Tecnicom S Brown, Sika Limited
F Atkins, National Housebuilding Council V Connolly, Renlon Limited
D Burke, Zurich Municipal M Falla, Booth Engineering Services Limited
M Clarke, British Cement Association Z Ginai, Marley Waterproofing Limited
P Hart, Institute of Building Control P Hewitt, Vandex UK Limited
D James, Bovis Homes South West T Holloway, Renlon Limited
A Jones, Stewart Milne Group Limited M Lenaghan, Servicised Limited
B Keyworth, Architect I J Moffat, Fosroc Expandilte Limited
R S Reynolds, Institute of Clerks of Works J A M Padley-Smith, Mastic Asphalt Council and
G R Sharpe, Association of Building Engineers Employers Federation Ltd
P Trotman, Building Research Establishment A J Parker, SCL Group Limited
M Radford, RIW Limited
Supporting Trade Groups
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete Products Association
British Structural Waterproofing Association
Concrete Block Association
Mortar Producers Association
Ready-mixed Concrete Bureau

Many construction activities are potentially dangerous, so care is needed at all times. Current legislation requires all
persons to consider the effects of their actions or lack of action on the health and safety of themselves and others. Advice
on safety legislation may be obtained from any of the area offices of the Health and Safety Executive.

48.059 Published by
First published 1994 British Cement Association
ISBN 0 7210 1476 3 Century House, Telford Avenue
Price group D Crowthorne, Berks RG11 6YS
© British Cement Association 1994 Telephone (0344) 762676
Fax (0344) 761214
From April 1995 the code will be (01344)

All advice or information from the British Cement Association is intended for those who will evaluate the significance and limitations of its contents and take responsibility for its use and
application. No liability (including that for negligence) for any loss resulting from such advice or information is accepted. Readers should note that all BCA publications are subject to revision
from time to time and should therefore ensure that they are in possession of the latest version.
 Contents Introduction 2
Scope

Principles of design and installation 2

G e n e r a l
Contract details
Site information
Construction category
Further considerations
Basement and site drainage

Application of waterproofing systems -

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DOS and DON’Ts 3

General to all systems
Category 1: Bonded sheet membranes
Category 2: Cavity drain membranes
Category 3: Bentonite clay active membranes
Category 4: Liquid-applied membranes
Category 5: Mastic asphalt membranes
Category 6: Cementitious crystallization active
systems
Category 7: Proprietary cementitious multi-coat
renders, toppings and coatings
Geocomposite drainage systems

Glossary 21
References 21

Production: Words & Pages

1

Introduction
The benefits of basements, and their viability and costs
were examined in a previous report (1) . This indicated that
they can be economically introduced onto most sites. In
particular, it showed they have clear advantages where
the ground is poor and might otherwise be difficult and
possibly uneconomic to build on. However, to ensure
success, particular attention must be given to the design
and construction of the basement and any necessary
waterproofing. This publication provides specific
guidance on the site application or installation of the
various waterproofing systems and comments on other
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associated construction matters.
A companion publication, Basement waterproofing:
Design guide (2), gives design information to help the
builder or building designer decide which construction
technique and waterproofing method offer the best
solution, and to help them avoid unsuitable construction.
Scope
The details and comments in this publication relate to
the categories of structural waterproofing which provide
Grade 2 or 3 internal environments, as defined in
BS 8102, which are appropriate for residential basements.
A Grade 2 environment is for use as workshops, plant
rooms and other areas where the performance level
permits no water penetration but where higher levels of
water vapour would be tolerable and surface
condensation may occur.
A Grade 3 environment is for ventilated residential and
working areas which require a drier environment.
Principles of design and
installation
General
Applying or installing a waterproofing system are
specialist tasks that are just as important as choosing and
specifying the system. The manufacturer should have
been consulted early in the design stage to ensure that
the most appropriate system has been selected. The
manufacturer will also be able to carry out the
installation or to recommend specialist waterproofing
contractors familiar with the system to be used.
Installation or application should not be left to
inexperienced workers.
The British Structural Waterproofing Association can
provide details of manufacturers of various waterproofing
systems and of appropriate specialist waterproofing
contractors.
Contract details
The specialist waterproofing contractor should examine
the contract drawings and waterproofing specifications to
ensure the design requirements are completely
understood. Since the designer should have consulted
with the manufacturer of the waterproofing system
during the design, there should be no obvious errors in
the contract details. However, the important thing is that
the final construction should perform satisfactorily. The
specialist waterproofing contractor should therefore
establish that the waterproofing concept does enable a
continuous barrier to be created - or otherwise
2
adequately protects the structure - and is practicable to
install.
Unless otherwise agreed with the designer, the materials
and installation should be in accordance with the
specified details, and all work should be carried out to
the same high standards irrespective of the Grade of
internal environment. All junctions, service penetrations,
dpc/cavity tray junctions and laps in materials should be
formed according to the designer’s or manufacturer’s
details.
The specialist waterproofing contractor should not use
alternative waterproofing systems or membranes since
they may not be appropriate for the conditions. For
example, the system may have been selected to resist not
just water but a specific ground chemical. Similarly, any
protection boards or screeds should comply with the
specifications and be positioned as on the drawings.
In essence, no alterations should be made to the
specified materials, their relative position and installation
sequence, without clearance from the designer or the
manufacturer of the waterproofing system.
Site information
Before the form of construction and the necessary
waterproofing system can be chosen, information must
be gathered on soil type, water tables and other relevant
factors. This is the designer’s responsibility.
The main contractor should find out from the designer
what the site conditions are - particularly the likely
severity of ground water conditions, and pass this
information to the specialist waterproofing contractor.
Sometimes, the main contractor may need to lower the
water table temporarily or permanently to enable
construction and waterproofing to go ahead.
Any lowering of the water table will need to be
maintained until the loads acting on the basement, from
either itself or in combination with the superstructure,
are greater than the forces that would be generated by
the water pressures as the water table returns to its
original level.
Although a site survey will have determined the general
nature of the site, there may be local variations. Any
significant differences should be brought to the attention
of the designer as they may create an additional hazard
not previously taken into account. Changes from
impervious to permeable soils may produce unexpected
water channels. Similarly, interception of previous land
drains or other elements could increase the amount of
water present. Any unexpected chemicals or suspect
materials should also be brought to the designer’s
attention.
Construction category
The structural walls will usually fall into one of the
following three construction categories.
Type A (tanked protection) structures will often be of
masonry construction, although plain or reinforced
concrete may be used. The latter may be in-situ or
precast. The structure is regarded as having no integral
protection against water ingress and so relies on the
applied waterproofing system to provide the necessary
control. Masonry walls may need a cement rendering or
flush pointing to product an acceptable surface for
subsequent application of the waterproofing system.
 The waterproofing system will, depending on its type,
tolerate certain construction cracks or minor defects. Fine
hair-line cracks up to 0.3 mm wide in reinforced
construction will generally be acceptable. Any larger or
unusual cracks should be brought to the designer’s
attention to allow for possible remedial action before the
waterproofing system is installed or applied.
Type B (structurally integral protection) structures will
generally be of reinforced or prestressed concrete. Since
they are specifically designed to be water-resistant,
further waterproofing will be required only where
additional control against free water or water vapour is
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considered necessary. In some instances, the additional
protection may be used to safeguard the structure from
aggressive chemicals. Again, any noticeable cracking or
defect should be brought to the attention of the designer.
Type C (drained protection) structures incorporate a
drained cavity in the basement. Although defects in the
outer leaf will not usually create problems, they may
allow more water to enter the cavity. If too much enters,
this might overload the cavity drain and lead to water
penetrating the basement. The drainage channels must
be properly formed and positioned, be free from
obstructions, and be approved under test. Any defect or
suspect area in the outer leaf should be raised with the
designer before the inner cavity drain system is installed.
The surface of concrete floors or oversite should be
prepared to suit the particular waterproofing system to
be used.
Further considerations
Control of condensation
Because window areas are often reduced, there tends to
be less natural ventilation in basements than in other
parts of the structure. The designer will pay particular
attention to this and detail specific heating and
ventilation measures. It is important that any ventilation
system is properly installed and not obstructed by
waterproofing systems inside the structure.
The waterproofing system must be installed where
indicated by the designer as otherwise there could be
excessive interstitial or surface condensation.
System restraint
Some waterproofing systems need to be restrained so
that they can resist the hydrostatic pressure. The mass
and thickness of such restraint must comply with the
designer’s or manufacturer’s details.
Application of waterproofing systems - DOs and DON’Ts
Each waterproofing system has its own characteristics and application methods. In addition, each has procedures
which should be adhered to (dos) and aspects which may later lead to defects or problems (don’ts). These are
listed by category on the following pages, followed by some dos and don’ts for geocomposite drainage systems.
General to all systems
1 Bonded sheet membranes
2 Cavity drain membranes
3 Bentonite clay active membranes
4 Liquid-applied membranes
Chemical barriers
An externally applied membrane may have been
specified to resist the effects of aggressive chemicals in
the soil. It must not be replaced by any other membrane
or system without the designer’s approval.
Movement joints
The designer is advised to eliminate movement joints in
the basement substructure wherever possible. Where
they are incorporated, details should have been included
in the contract drawings and must be followed exactly. If
the specialist waterproofing contractor finds movement
joints with no specific waterproofing details, the designer
must be asked to provide appropriate details. On no
account should a waterproofing system be continued
directly across movement joints.
Construction joints
Where reinforcement crosses construction joints in
reinforced concrete structures, the joints are not
movement joints and most waterproofing membranes
may be directly placed across them. With Type B
construction, these joints will often be provided with a
waterstop, either within the concrete or on its surface.
Service penetrations
Any service penetration through the basement wall or
lower floor slab will need special details.
It is important to ensure that service penetrations are
correctly formed and sealed in accordance with the
specification or manufacturer’s instructions. On no
account should penetrations be made or their
waterproofing attempted without proper details being
followed and agreed with the designer and manufacturer
of the waterproofing system.
Basement and site drainage
Sometimes, installing a waterproofing system may mean
that the area around the basement has to be drained. In
any case, it is generally good practice to provide
perimeter drains to enable any excess percolating water
to run away - for example to the downside of a sloping
site or to a lower soakaway.
Since such drainage may be an essential part of the
waterproofing measures, it is generally advisable to make
sure this has been installed before the waterproofing
system is applied or installed.
5 Mastic asphalt membranes
6 Cementitious crystallization active systems
7 Proprietary cementitious multi-coat renders,
toppings and coatings
Geocomposite drainage systems
3
 General
A: Health & Safety

DOs

OBTAIN Health & Safety product and equipment data, and have available on site

HAVE protective clothing, cleansing creams, etc. on site

DISPOSE of release paper, cores, primer tins, etc. properly

STORE gas bottles in a compound with high, secure fencing

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ENSURE adequate ventilation to interior during working (particularly when asphalting)

PROVIDE respiratory protection where necessary

OBSERVE good housekeeping and general hygiene guidelines

KEEP materials out of reach of children

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT ignore Health & Safety advice Accidents - personal injury, prosecution

DO NOT leave waste on site Third-party injury, prosecution

DO NOT burn scrap Irritation from smoke and dust

DO NOT transfer materials into unlabelled containers Improper handling and disposal of unidentifiable
materials and risk of injury

DO NOT expose materials to heat or flame Fire, explosion (primers) and severe personal injury

DO NOT dispose of waste or surplus materials Environmental/legal considerations

incorrectly

B: Information

DOs

ENSURE that detail drawings, manufacturers’ literature and site instructions are available to operatives on site

CHECK that all information and details are in accordance with the waterproofing manufacturer’s instructions

SEEK advice and guidance from manufacturer on installation procedures

ENSURE specification conforms with the manufacturer’s recommendations

CONSULT the manufacturer, if in doubt

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT confine information to the site hut Waterproofing failure

DO NOT start waterproofing until all the available Leakage

information has been read and understood

DO NOT assume that a manufacturer has been Litigation

consulted in the design, even where specified. The
concept or design may be basically flawed (see
Basement waterproofing: Design guide)

DO NOT apply membrane without consulting the Incorrect application leading to potential failure and
manufacturer’s literature. financial loss

4
 C: Associated works

DOs

ENSURE that associated works are co-ordinated and do not impede or damage waterproofing
CHECK that other products and methods are compatible
TAKE CARE not to damage system, but repair simple defects according to manufacturer’s instructions
ALWAYS refer to manual
PROVIDE for attendance of other trades where specified
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ARRANGE for hoisting facilities and any necessary scaffolding or other plant
PROVIDE suitable surface for application
ENSURE that measures taken will not interfere with the watertightness of the system

DONT’s POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT proceed if unsure of next stage or of its effect Damage, leakage, or longer-term adverse reactions
on work in hand between materials
DO NOT drag steelwork across unprotected work Damage or leakage
DO NOT expect installers to provide services normally Poor workmanship
provided by other trades
DO NOT pierce or breach waterproofing system Leakage
DO NOT introduce non-specified chemicals, etc. Harm to waterproofing system

DO NOT introduce any necessary vibration, heat, cold
or pressure until the system will accept this
DO NOT change drainage details without considering
the waterproofing system
DO NOT mix waterproofing systems, even if specified -
refer to client, designer or manufacturer
DO NOT continue if the continuity of the membrane has
been broken
Damage to membrane by imposed loads
Development of water pressures incompatible with
forms of construction
Failure through incompatibility of hybrid systems
Damp/water penetration

5
 1 Bonded sheet membranes
1A: Storage and handling

DOs

STORE as required by the manufacturer

RECORD batch numbers to check shelf life

STORE upright

KEEP in controlled temperature

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FOLLOW manufacturer’s instructions and check that all ancillary items, tools and protective clothing are present on site

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT leave out on site or allow rolls to become cold Difficulty in stripping release paper and probably poor
or wet adhesion

DO NOT use after shelf life expired As above

DO NOT store rolls horizontally Edges of sheet become damaged and rolls become
difficult to strip and lay

DO NOT allow material to get too cold Material could lose its adhesion

DO NOT allow material to get too hot May become too sticky and prove difficult to lay

DO NOT mix products and ancillary items from different Incompatibility or unsuitability, with no redress in case
manufacturers of failure

1B: Preparation of substrates

DOs

INSPECT surface to be waterproofed. Does it meet manufacturer’s requirements for finish, imperfections and other
criteria?

CHECK whether in accordance with drawings, especially provision of chamfers at corners/edges and chases for
terminations

ENSURE that surface is free from all contaminants (mud, wet, release agents, curing compounds, etc.) and in
accordance with manufacturer’s requirements

AVOID awkward details

ALLOW enough time for curing

ALLOW for temporary weather protection in order to provide dry surfaces

PLAN works to prevent membrane being left exposed for long period of time

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT accept just any degree of finish Membrane puncture under load

DO NOT waterproof over blow holes, poorly Membrane not sandwiched correctly
compacted concrete or where brickwork or blockwork
has not been flush pointed

DO NOT accept surfaces not in accordance with Leakage

manufacturer’s details (absence of chamfers/chases, etc.)

DO NOT dress membrane around an impossible detail Leakage

DO NOT lay on uncured background Membrane not bonded to background surface

DO NOT take on the contract unless you are happy the Your company will get the blame for foreseen leaks
membrane will be protected and that a suitable lap will
be left to connect to

6
 1 C : Application

DOs

MAKE SURE the correct primer is applied, following the instructions for number of coats and coverage rate

ALLOW primer to dry for the required length of time before applying membrane

ENSURE that reinforcing strips, angle fillets, etc. are used at changes in direction and are as required by manufacturer

ENSURE that all specified laps are provided and are rolled down

ENSURE that all laps are ‘weathered’

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FOLLOW manufacturer’s instructions for laying membrane

ALWAYS check what is required as a minimum loading coat, since the membrane is designed to be sandwiched

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT omit primer on horizontal surfaces unless Subsequent defects in unbonded sheets provide a path
agreed by manufacturer for water ingress

DO NOT ‘stretch’ the primer application Inadequate bond

DO NOT prime more than can be waterproofed in the Contamination with site dust/condensation/rain resulting
same day in lack of adhesion

DO NOT omit reinforcing strips, etc. at corners to save Leakage

cost

DO NOT omit or skimp on edge or end laps Leakage paths

DO NOT just unroll and drop down a vertical surface Air pockets behind the membrane

1 D : Protection and backfilling

DOs

USE appropriate or specified protection and apply carefully to prevent damage

PROP or backfill in sequence when using board protection

USE specified backfill material

COMPACT in layers as specified

ALWAYS USE a suitable protection board, of the correct thickness to avoid damage, spot-bonded to the membrane

DISCUSS the backfilling procedure with the site manager or design team. If this work is to be done by others,
arrange to be present to check for site damage

ENSURE that the backfilling does not impede a lap joint that you may have to work from later

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT store materials on unprotected membrane Leakage from punctured or damaged membrane

DO NOT tip waste material as backfill Settlement and downward displacement of protection
board and membrane

DO NOT backfill without compacting layers as specified As above

DO NOT apply protection to damaged membrane Leakage failure

without first making repairs

DO NOT leave a sheet membrane unprotected Subsequent problems, since damage - whether
intentional or not - often goes unrecorded

DO NOT drill or puncture surface without checking with Loss of waterproofing integrity of the membrane and
the installer potential for leakage

7
 2 Cavity drain membranes
2A: Storage and handling

DO

STORE as required by the manufacturer

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT leave drainage sheets around on site Damage

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DO NOT allow ancillary sealing tapes to become cold Difficulty stripping release paper and probably poor
or wet adhesion

2B: Preparation of substrates

DOs

CHECK and remedy unacceptable leaks in concrete or masonry substrate before the system is installed

CLEAN horizontal substrate and remove all debris

CHECK there are no depressions in floor slab which may cause ponding

ENSURE slab drains to drainage exits and pump sump

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT lay membrane over unswept substrate Blockages

DO NOT lay cavity former over uneven floor surface Damage and ponding, leading to leakage

2C: Application and finishing

DOs

CHECK total integrity of cavity drainage system and inspect membrane for damage before placing screeds or
blockwork finishes

ENSURE that mesh reinforcement (if required) for floor screeds is supported

ERECT walkways to support access and barrows for placing screeds

CHECK and clean out all drainage points/channels

ENSURE sump pump (where provided) is operational

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT shorten recommended overlaps Water and moisture penetration

DO NOT omit recommended sealing strips and tapes As above

DO NOT omit sealing washers for mechanical fixings As above

DO NOT store materials on completed installations or Puncture of membrane

traffic unnecessarily

DO NOT allow fixing through finished floor screeds, or Cavity membrane will not be loaded correctly
unauthorised channels in the finished loading screed

DO NOT allow additional masonry wall ties without Leakage

sealing washers

DO NOT allow membrane and finishes over membrane A meaningful guarantee could not be issued by the
to be carried out by two different parties membrane installer

8
 2 D : Protection and backfilling

DOs

CHECK integrity of cavity drainage system before proceeding

AT WALLS, construct non-loadbearing blockwork wall in front of cavity drainage system

AT FLOORS, keep to specified screed thickness, reinforced if required

ENSURE that reinforcement mesh is supported and has not damaged cavity drainage system while being positioned
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DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT proceed until everything has been inspected Water penetration at damaged areas
and any damage repaired

DO NOT use ties unless properly sealed Water penetration at ties

DO NOT drag reinforcing mesh across cavity drainage Damage and perhaps water penetration
system

9
 3 Bentonite clay active membranes
3A: Storage and handling

DOs

STORE materials off the ground

KEEP dry before use

USE gloves when handling loose bentonite

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DON’T POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT place materials in standing water Prehydration and need for replacement

3B: Preparation of substrates

D O

MAKE reasonably flat and free from voids

DON’T POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT leave stones or voids larger than 50 mm Waterproofing efficiency impaired

3C: Application and finishing

DOs

REFER to manufacturer’s fixing guide

BRUSH standing water from substrate or blinding

ALWAYS lap panels

PROTECT from heavy steelwork

LAY only what can be covered in one day

WET the cut surfaces

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT lay panels in standing water Prehydration and replacement needed

DO NOT place panels on unrendered masonry surfaces Loss of bentonite into voids. Loss of efficiency

DO NOT walk on wet panels Need for replacement

DO NOT drag heavy objects across panels Damage - loss of bentonite

DO NOT leave exposed for more than 48 hours Prehydration and need for replacement

DO NOT lay large areas and leave uncovered Prehydration and need for replacement

10
 3 D : Protection and backfilling

DOs

USE hardboard in specific circumstances (but not normally required)

USE sand if possible, but nothing larger than 50 mm (MOT Type II is acceptable)

ALWAYS compact well

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DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT use plastic sheeting or prevent water System takes longer to react
reaching the system

DO NOT leave large voids, or forget to compact Waterproofing efficiency impaired

11
 4 Liquid-applied membranes
4A: Storage and handling

DOs

PROVIDE dry, safe storage away from sources of ignition

RECORD batch numbers

KEEP in controlled temperature

ROTATE stock
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DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT STORE longer than 12 months Some loss of solvents, causing increase in viscosity

DO NOT USE beyond shelf life without consulting the As above

manufacturer

4B: Preparation of substrates

DOs

DRY surface to depth of 1-2 mm

REMOVE dust, grease, oils and other contaminants

ELIMINATE all hollows and voids

FLUSH-POINT masonry walls

REMOVE sharp edges or high points

REMOVE existing floor or masonry paints

PROVIDE 20 mm sand/cement fillet in all internal angles

FOLLOW manufacturer’s recommendations for surface flatness, keeping it generally within 3-4 mm

ALLOW for temporary weather protection in order to provide dry surfaces

PLAN works to prevent membrane being left exposed for long periods

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT apply to wet surfaces Membrane will not bond to substrate

DO NOT apply to a dusty or flaking surface Membrane will not bond to substrate or may not leave
the brush

DO NOT apply to open-textured surface Continuity of membrane will be broken

DO NOT tamp surface heavily Will cause pooling in low points

12
 4C: Application and finishing

DOs

PREPARE surface correctly

REFER to manufacturer’s recommendations in cold conditions

APPLY at published coverage rates

APPLY in two coats

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ALLOW each coat to dry throughout its thickness

REINFORCE angles where necessary

ALWAYS employ a preferred applicator, who is conversant with the product

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT apply when temperature is below 5°C Surface may frosty, i.e. wet

DO NOT pour onto substrate or apply thickly Trapped solvent and failure to cure

DO NOT sand membrane Breaks continuity of membrane

DO NOT screed until cured Membrane will be absorbed into screed

DO NOT leave exposed to UV light for more than Membrane will weather, become thin and brittle
28 days

DO NOT apply the material too thinly Membrane will not function as designed but instead
will leak

DO NOT apply a second coat before the first is fully Will damage continuity of first coat and cause solvent
cured entrapment

4 D : Protection and backfilling

DOs

External protection

USE bitumen-impregnated fibre board horizontally

USE geotextile drainage board vertically

Internally

REINFORCE slab or screed horizontally

ADD masonry skin with 20 mm cavity filled with sand/cement mortar as work proceeds

In all cases

ALWAYS allow for suitable protection which should be provided by the company laying the membrane

ENSURE protection is firmly fixed according to manufacturer’s recommendations

MONITOR the backfilling process to reduce risk of damage

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT lay protection boards loosely Movement, exposing membrane

DO NOT leave exposed to backfilling or unprotected Damage to the membrane

against following trades

DO NOT leave membrane unsupported internally Membrane will ‘blow’, leading to failure

13
 5 Mastic asphalt membranes
5A: Storage and handling

DOs

PROVIDE dry, safe storage for primers, gauges, tools, etc.

POSITION plant close to point of application

PLACE mastic asphalt blocks tidily near to asphalt mixer

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DON’T POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT increase the distance that molten material is Material could cool down and become difficult to lay
carried

5B: Preparation of substrates

DOS

PROVIDE base to specified levels, tolerances and finish

APPLY float finish to horizontal surfaces

ENSURE adequate chases

PROVIDE correctly prepared vertical surfaces

ENSURE all oils, greases and contaminates are removed from all surfaces

DON’T POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT penetrate horizontal or vertical surfaces with Leakage failure around pipes
services

5C: Application

DOs

ENSURE all horizontal and vertical work is applied in three coats

PIERCE and make good any ‘blows’ while mastic asphalt is still warm

ENSURE all succeeding coats follow the preceding coats without delay

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT allow temperature of remelt to exceed 230°C Adverse effect on viscosity of bitumen
for sustained periods

DO NOT lay membrane on wet background Unacceptable increase in ‘blowing’

DO NOT lay successive coats on cold or contaminated Lack of bond and contamination between coats
preceding coats

DO NOT lay on dusty surfaces Unacceptable increase in ‘blowing’

14
 5 D : Protection and backfilling

DOs

PROVIDE protective screed to horizontal asphalt work as soon as practicable after laying

PROVIDE vertical brickwork protection and concrete loading coat designed to withstand the expected water pressure
on internally applied tanking,

MAINTAIN sump with pump facility until all loading is complete - if water pressure present
Licensed copy from CIS: uniport, UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH, 07/07/2015, Uncontrolled Copy.

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT backfill externally without protection to the Damage to asphalt by other trades, before and during
vertical asphalt backfilling

DO NOT store materials, reinforcement, etc. on Puncture damage or cracking

unprotected membrane or allow it to be trafficked

15
 6 Cementitious crystallization active systems
6A: Storage and handling

DOs

KEEP products in dry, well ventilated area

WEAR suitable protective clothing to prevent contact with skin, eyes, nose, throat, etc.

WASH off immediately if bodily contact occurs

Licensed copy from CIS: uniport, UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH, 07/07/2015, Uncontrolled Copy.

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT use materials once they have become wet or Materials will not hydrate fully
hardened

DO NOT leave wet materials on the skin Burns to skin

DO NOT breathe in dust Burns to throat

6B: Preparation of substrates

DOs

ENSURE all surface contaminants are removed

ENSURE substrate is sound

ENSURE there is an adequate key

CONTROL suction

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT ignore defects in the substrate Cracking and debonding of the system

DO NOT leave surfaces soft or dusty As above

6 C : Application

DOs

ENSURE surface is correctly prepared

MIX strictly in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions

MAKE sure substrate is saturated, surface dry

STOP all leaks before applying

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT apply to dry substrates Cracking and debonding of the system

DO NOT apply to surfaces running with water As above

DO NOT apply while a dehumidifier is running Insufficient hydration

16
 6 D : Protection and backfilling

DOs

ENSURE system is properly cured

USE appropriate protection when backfilling

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

Licensed copy from CIS: uniport, UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH, 07/07/2015, Uncontrolled Copy.

DO NOT force-dry the system Cracking and debonding

DO NOT allow point loading in the backfilling Damage to coating

17
 7 Proprietary cementitious multi-coat renders, toppings, and
coatings
7A: Storage and handling

DOs

FOLLOW manufacturer’s shelf life and general storage conditions

STORE in sealed original containers, in frost-free conditions

WEAR protective clothing, and keep a copy of the manufacturer’s safety sheet handy
Licensed copy from CIS: uniport, UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH, 07/07/2015, Uncontrolled Copy.

KEEP out of reach of children, and dispose of waste and surplus correctly

RECORD batch numbers of the additive to check shelf life

STORE all ancillary materials, cement and sand correctly

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT allow prolonged skin or eye contact Health hazard

DO NOT allow materials to freeze or be subject to Material may become unusable and system ineffective
extreme heat, or store in an unsuitable environment

DO NOT use materials past their shelf life As above

DO NOT allow materials to become contaminated Contaminated material, possible failure

7B: Preparation of substrates

DOs

STOP infiltrations of water or lower the water table before proceeding

ENSURE substrate is of sufficient structural quality and soundness

WET the substrate before applying any coating

REMOVE all surface applications such as plaster and paint

ROUGHEN or hack all the surface to produce mechanical key or use surface retarders when placing concrete

REMOVE all contamination, dust, etc.

IDENTIFY likely problems or defective areas and agree what will be done as regards repair

KEEP within prescribed temperature limits during cure

ALWAYS use the sand and cement recommended by the manufacturer

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT apply materials to a frosted surface, or when Slow rate of cure and poor surface bond
temperature is below 5°C

DO NOT apply to unsuitable contaminated surfaces As above

DO NOT apply to uncured substrates Ineffective system, substrate movement or cracking

which may reflect through render

DO NOT use beyond shelf life Mix will be incorrect and the system will not function

DO NOT use old cement or ungraded sand As above

DO NOT proceed until water infiltration is stopped Unable to apply system correctly to surface

DO NOT apply to substrate of inferior structural quality Cracking and failure of system
and soundness

DO NOT apply to incorrectly prepared surface Poor bond of system to substrate

DO NOT apply to thoroughly dry surface Rapid drying out of material, causing poor surface bond

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 7 C : Application

DOs

MIX in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions and use potable water

CONSIDER ground conditions, contamination

USE correct grading of sand, and seive sand and cement before use, where appropriate
Licensed copy from CIS: uniport, UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH, 07/07/2015, Uncontrolled Copy.

FOLLOW manufacturer’s application procedures, and have a copy available for reference

FOLLOW instructions for overcoating/waiting times

USE suitable joint materials for sealing movement joints

CURE correctly

CONSULT BBA certificate for further information where required

EMPLOY only experienced applicators

MONITOR their progress to ensure backgrounds are prepared correctly and that each coat is applied properly

DISCUSS whether fixing pockets are required before starting

DON’T POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT ‘scratch’ the previous coat to form a key. System failure and inability to apply materials correctly
Use a ‘splatter coat’

DO NOT butt-joint coats System failure and inability to apply materials correctly.
Damp/water penetration

DO NOT use soft sand or old cement System failure and inability to apply materials correctly.
If wrong mix is used, the system will leak

DO NOT expose fresh mortars to frost or to Cracking and water penetration

temperatures above 30°C

DO NOT add unspecified materials to the mix If wrong mix is used, the system will leak

DO NOT use inexperienced staff System failure and inability to apply materials correctly

DO NOT apply to unsuitable or unprepared System may not be watertight

backgrounds

AVOID fittings fixed mechanically through the system Continuity of waterproofing may be compromised,
leading to water/damp penetration

DO NOT mix materials incorrectly Poor quality render, system will leak

DO NOT exceed waiting times between coats Poor bond between coats

DO NOT use unsieved sand or cement Oversize grains and foreign bodies can cause problems

DO NOT forget to cure correctly May cause cracking and water penetration

7 D : Protection and backfilling

DOs

USE suitable coatings where appropriate (consult manufacturer)

BOND fixings

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT drill or puncture surface System failure, letting in water or damp

DO NOT use unsuitable decorative coatings/finishes Visual deterioration of coating/finish may occur

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 Geocomposite drainage systems
A: S t o r a g e a n d h a n d l i n g

DO

STORE as required by the manufacturer

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT leave unused material around on site Damage

Licensed copy from CIS: uniport, UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH, 07/07/2015, Uncontrolled Copy.

DO NOT leave exposed to ultraviolet light for long Decomposition of geotextile fabric
periods

B: Preparation of substrate

D O

ENSURE, for horizontal application, substrate is laid to falls

DON’T POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT allow trafficking before backfill or concrete Damage to drainage composite

oversite is placed to horizontal areas

C: A p p l i c a t i o n a n d f i n i s h i n g

DOs

USE correct geocomposite type and fixings to suit substrate

INSTALL geocomposite with filter fabric to soil face

ENSURE that geocomposite filter membrane extends to wrap drainage pipe or links to a fin or other drain

ENSURE drainage outlet is to lower side of structure and drains away from building

DON’Ts POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT allow use of dimpled drainage core directly Damage to waterproofing

against soft waterproofing membranes

DO NOT allow mechanical fixing against waterproofing Damage and leakage

membranes

DO NOT allow bonding tapes to become cold or wet Difficulty in stripping release paper or poor adhesion

DO NOT use sharp-footed reinforcement spacers Damage and leakage

directly on membrane

D : Protection and backfilling

D O

USE approved backfill material and compact in layers as specified

DON’T POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES

DO NOT use clay or chalk soil as backfill Clogging

2 0

Glossary
Air dry When the surface humidity of a
material is equal to that of the
ambient surrounding air
C o m b i n e d s y s t e m Two or more waterproofing
systems used together
Construction joint Joint formed in-situ, for example in
concrete, when continuity is not
possible
Licensed copy from CIS: uniport, UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH, 07/07/2015, Uncontrolled Copy.
Damp The condition of a material when
wetter than air dry
Damp-proof Impervious to moisture, not
permitting moisture to enter
Damp resistance The ability of a material to exclude
moisture
Damp-resistant Having a high resistance to
moisture penetration
A continuous cavity which
Drained cavity
intercepts and drains away
incoming water
Expansion joint Joint that permits relative
movement caused by expansion
and contraction due to changes of
temperature or moisture
External Where the waterproofing system is
waterproofing positioned and placed against the
outside face of the main structure
External (reverse) Where the waterproofing is
waterproofing positioned outside the main
structure but placed against the
enabling works
Free-draining Ground through which free water
rapidly drains away
High water table Where the water table is above the
underside of the lowest floor level
Hydrostatic head Water pressure, expressed as an
equivalent depth of water
Hydrostatic The water pressure exerted as a
pressure result of a hydrostatic head
Integral Where the structure itself provides
protection the necessary protection to the
passage of water
Kicker Small concrete upstand, cast above
floor level to position wall or
column formwork for the next lift
Kickerless A mechanical means of retaining
construction formwork in position, eliminating a
kicker
Loading coat A material applied to the
waterproofing membrane to enable
it to resist hydrostatic pressure
Low-permeability Resistant to water penetration
Low water table Where the water table is
permanently below the underside
of the lowest floor level
Membrane A material which forms a
continuous effective barrier to the
passage of water
Moisture Water in the form of vapour as well
as liquid
Perched water Where, because of insufficient
table permeability of a soil, percolating
water is held above the underside
of the lowest floor level, resulting
in hydrostatic pressure
Protection layer An element used to provide protection
to a waterproofing system
Sandwiched Where the waterproofing system is
waterproofing between the two non-tied leaves of
the main structure
Vapour check A continuous vapour-resistant layer
Vapour resistance The ability of a material to resist
vapour penetration
Vapour-resistant Excludes water and has a high
resistance to vapour penetration
Variable water Where the water is occasionally
table above the underside of the lowest
floor level
Water Water in its liquid form
Waterstop A product or system, placed in-situ,
to prevent the passage of water
through a discontinuity or joint in
site-placed concrete
Waterproof Impervious to water, not permitting
water to penetrate
Waterproofing The total method or combination of
system materials used to create a
waterproof protection
Water-resistant Having a high resistance to water
penetration
Water vapour Water in its gaseous form
References
1. BRITISH CEMENT ASSOCIATION. Options for quality in
houses: Basements 1 - benefits, viability and costs.
Slough (now Crowthorne), British Cement
Association, 1992. 37 pp. (Ref. C/10)
2. BRITISH CEMENT ASSOCIATION. Basement waterproofing:
Design guide. Crowthorne, 1994. 20 pp. (Ref. 48.058).
21
 BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: SITE GUIDE

BRITISH CEMENT ASSOCIATION PUBLICATION 48.059

Licensed copy from CIS: uniport, UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH, 07/07/2015, Uncontrolled Copy.

British Cement Association

British
Structural
Waterproofing
Association