Press/News

Timberwise are experienced on working on specialist waterproofing projects of all sizes. From small Victorian cellars to larger commercial waterproofing projects we have a waterproofing solution to suit all different needs. Here we look at a recent basement waterproofing project in Bradford, West Yorkshire  for a nursery and children’s centre.

The cause of the leaking basement

Undercliffe Lane Community works and Children’s Centre was due for a program of alterations and partial refurbishment during the summer break of 2010. Part of the works involved the installation of a lift facility and the provision of through access into a basement class-room. The existing access to the class-room consisted of a damp, untidy basement hallway which needed waterproofing to provide a safe, dry environment.

The waterproofing system designed by Timberwise

The waterproofing project was on a tight site-program and Timberwise was invited to design a waterproofing solution for the basement hallway. Working with the architect and the contractor Timberwise designed and insulated a Type C (drained protection) waterproofing system with little preparation and the facility for the contractor to dry-line over the waterproofing system which reduced wet-trades in the schedule of works. The cavity drain waterproofing system was installed quickly with little or no disruption to the program and the works were allowed to proceed unhindered.

The cavity drain waterproofing system was designed to drain into adjacent large basement rooms which were at a lower level and had submersible sump pumps recessed in the floors.
Attention to detail with designing waterproofing systems is critical – Timberwise technicians ensured that service penetrations through the waterproofing membrane were treated effectively and that fixing points did not create any problems for the contractor. All joists were fully sealed using butyl tape and fixing points were sealed using gasket grommets to the underside of system fixing components.

Under the Code of Practice which dictates waterproofing design (BS 8102:2009 – The code of practice for protection of below ground structures against water from the ground) it is critical to design and consider future maintenance into a waterproofing system. Timberwise designed into the specification and installed cleaning ports to allow future maintenance of the waterproofing system and if required inspection of the cavity drainage system at the Community Works Nursery & Children’s Centre.

The nursery and childrens centre

Cavity drain membrane, drainage channel and inspection port

Fixings in cavity drain membrane

What should I do if I have a leaking basement?

If you are looking to waterproof a basement area and turn it in to extra dry space, the first thing you need to do is have a survey of the basement carried out by a basement waterproofing professional. Following on from the basement survey, the best form of waterproofing system for the basement will be determined.

To arrange a survey of your basement or cellar contact Timberwise on 0800 288 8660 or arrange a basement survey on-line.