Foundation /Basement Waterproofing

Waterproofing systems for subterranean structures face rigorous demands concerning durability, exposure, stress conditions, application ease, and cost-effectiveness. These systems also need to be sustainable. Basements or any other structures below ground level, including base slab, walls, and a top slab, are subject to specific stresses and exposure due to their proximity to soil and groundwater.

Exterior Waterproofing Solutions: Effective Foundation Waterproofing

Foundation waterproofing involves applying a waterproofing layer or membrane between the substrate that needs protection and the water source. This approach is often referred to as exterior-side waterproofing since the waterproofing materials are applied to the exterior of the structure.

Foundation waterproofing is a definitive exterior waterproofing solution for a leak-prone basement as it proactively stops water from penetrating the basement. The high pressure from the water can be too much for interior seals to handle. The process of exterior waterproofing involves excavating alongside the foundation down to the base of the footing, and then applying a waterproof membrane and a protective insulation layer.

However, it's crucial to remember that, since most of this will be underground upon the building's completion, getting it right the first time is essential. Retrofitting or correcting mistakes can be an expensive venture. A leaking foundation in a residential property can harm interior finishes and furniture, and even the structure itself. In commercial buildings, water can damage costly equipment and interrupt crucial operations, leading to financial losses, wasted time, dissatisfied customers, and potential legal disputes.

Exterior Waterproofing Solutions Provides Long-Term Durability For Your Property

The anticipated service life for new buildings is often 50 years or more, while underground structures may be expected to last over 100 years. Any compromise in the watertight integrity of the structure can significantly impact its long-term durability and intended use. Water infiltration can cause physical damage and degradation to the concrete, leading to costly repairs, damage or loss of internal finishes and goods, operational downtime, and potential issues with internal dampness and condensation.

Key factors of maximizing the Value of Investment include selecting the appropriate waterproofing method, designing the chosen waterproofing system to suit the specific project, and ensuring its correct installation. While a waterproofing system typically represents less than 1% of the total core construction cost, choosing a high-quality waterproofing solution can save this amount or more in future maintenance and repair costs over the lifespan of the structure.

Choosing Between Dampproofing and Waterproofing

When you need exterior waterproofing, there are many decisions to make. The primary one is to determine if you are dampproofing or waterproofing.

In the context of below-grade protection, dampproofing involves treating a surface to prevent moisture passage in the absence of hydrostatic conditions. Waterproofing means treating a surface to prevent water passage under conditions of hydrostatic pressure. It offers protection when water accumulates due to inadequate drainage at the base of foundation walls.

Advanced Roofing Technologies waterproofing team is adept at identifying and applying the right measures to address these concerns and offers the LOTUS High Performance Liquid Membrane as a long-lasting solution for your waterproofing needs.

Interior Waterproofing Solutions: Worry-Free Basement Waterproofing

Interior or basement waterproofing is a process used to prevent water from entering and accumulating in the basement of a building. It's typically done from inside the basement, hence the name "interior waterproofing". This process is particularly important in areas where the water table is high, and it tends to rise above the foundation of the homes after heavy rainfall or melting snow.

A major cause of water seeping into your basement is the condition of the soil beneath your foundation. Water might find its way in if the soil is loosely packed or overly water-saturated. This is particularly the case if your foundation has pre-existing cracks, which act as entry points for water. Factors like the clay bowl effect and hydrostatic pressure can lead to basement water damage. It's crucial to mend any cracks before the installation of waterproofing systems.

Signs of Basement Waterproofing Problems

Signs of basement waterproofing problems include cracks or leaks in the basement walls, which can reduce the comfort, value, and safety of your home. These cracks provide easy access for water to create moisture issues in your basement, leading to foundation damage, mold growth, and other related problems. Waterproofing your basement not only improves comfort and eliminates potential allergens but also adds value to your property. A damp basement can deter potential buyers and make a house harder to sell.

Implementing LOTUS High Performance Liquid Membrane can effectively thwart the consequences of soil-related moisture issues in your basement.

Basement Waterproofing with LOTUS P1 Primer

The importance of waterproofing basements cannot be overstated. Basements, being below ground level, are particularly susceptible to water ingress and moisture buildup. This can lead to significant structural issues and mold growth over time. Waterproofing your basement can protect your home from such damage. A crucial step in this process is priming the surface, and Lotus P1 Primer is a perfect solution for this task. Its perfect adhesion to concrete makes it highly suitable for basement application. To use it, ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from dust, dirt, and grease. Apply the primer with a brush, roller, or sprayer and let it dry for 24 hours before applying the product.

Various uses of LOTUS High Performance Liquid Membrane in Ground Level Areas

Advanced Roofing Technologies has introduced an innovational product - LOTUS High Performance Liquid Membrane - that's tailor-made to counteract the harmful effects of water leakage in below-ground areas. This high-performance waterproofing solution ensures a fully dry basement, providing a safe and secure environment in a wide range of applications.

Residential Buildings: In the context of residential buildings, the Lotus High Performance Liquid Membrane is crucial for waterproofing basements, particularly those spaces that house storage rooms, wellness centers, fitness areas, or home theaters. By securing these rooms from water ingress, the membrane not only protects valuable possessions but also ensures a healthy, dry, and comfortable environment for occupants to engage in their activities.

Commercial Office Buildings: For commercial office buildings, this product offers paramount protection to basements that hold strong rooms, computer server rooms, or additional storage spaces. These areas often house sensitive equipment and valuable data, making waterproofing solutions essential to prevent costly damage and potential data loss.

Libraries: Libraries often use basement areas as archive rooms, which require strictly controlled humidity levels to preserve priceless books and documents. The Lotus High Performance Liquid Membrane is an ideal solution for ensuring these sensitive archive rooms remain dry, thus helping to prolong the lifespan of stored materials and maintain their condition.

Underground Parking Areas: Water leakage in underground parking areas can not only deteriorate the concrete structure but also pose a safety risk due to slippery surfaces. The Lotus High Performance Liquid Membrane can effectively waterproof different levels of underground parking areas, promoting safety and long-term durability.

Server Rooms: This product also serves as a reliable basement waterproofing solution for various plant rooms and underground power stations. These spaces often contain essential machinery and systems that require protection from moisture, ensuring their optimal operation and reducing the risk of costly repairs or replacements.

Warehouses: In retail units and warehouses, goods and commodities need to remain dry to prevent spoilage or damage. The Lotus High Performance Liquid Membrane offers comprehensive waterproofing solutions, maintaining a dry environment to protect stock, thus contributing to an efficient and cost-effective operation.