The Property Care Association (The PCA) have drawn up a new code of practice relating to basement waterproofing systems. The new technical guide relates to drained cavity waterproofing systems – commonly referred to as type C waterproofing systems which are predominantly used within basement waterproofing and provide ideal waterproofing solutions for home owners.
The use of type C waterproofing systems
These systems allow water to flow freely through a cavity between the exterior and interior walls of a basement. Using perimeter drainage channel the water is channeled into a sump, from where it can be safely drained or pumped away.
Guidance for the Service and Maintenance of Drained Cavity Waterproofing systems (Type C waterproofing) has been drawn up by the technical experts at the PCA and highlights the need to undertake regular maintenance of these systems. The waterproofing guidance also covers the need to design and install maintainable features and looks at the elements of the waterproofing system that should be examined and maintained.
Why has the basement waterproofing guide been created ?
The guide acts as a point of reference for PCA basement waterproofing contractors as well as specifiers, homeowners and property managers who install,control or own type c waterproofing systems.
Steve Hodgson, Deputy Director of the Property Care Association said,” Type C basement waterproofing systems have developed rapidly over the last 2 decades and PCA contractors have access to some fantastic products.
“These include, high-density drainage membranes, advanced sealing and fixing systems, purpose designed perimeter drainage channels and state-of-the-art sump and pump packages.
“Most pumping systems now incorporate back-up pumps and batteries and an audible alarm – and it is even possible to install a system that will call people on their mobile phone if it detects a fault.
“However, the need to service and maintain the drainage elements of type c waterproofing systems is paramount to their long term success.
“This is already highlighted in BS8102, the Code of Practice for Protection of Structures Against Water From The Ground, and the PCA code of practice for ‘Remedial Waterproofing of Structures Below Ground’ – as well as information from the distributors of products and equipment used to create waterproof basements.”
Maintaining your Type C basement waterproofing solution
To remain effective your basement system needs to be inspected and cleaned regularly as advised in the guidelines from the PCA – in most cases this is only once a year.
With a Timberwise waterproofing solution the system is designed so that it can be serviced easily. The sumps benefit from having easy to remove lids which allow easy access to the pumps whilst the perimeter drainage has inspection ports fitted to allow the system to be ‘flushed’ and any mud and silt removed
With a 10 point basement ‘Clean & Check’ you will have the peace of mind that your basement waterproofing system is working efficiently.
If left unchecked silt and deposits along with limescale can decrease the effectiveness of the pump and the waterproofing system. The picture below shows a basement sump unit that had been neglected:
Our sister company, The Basement Sump & Pump Co, are experts in the maintaining and servicing of basement waterproofing systems and are a strategic partner of Timberwise. They are also registered with the Property Care Association giving you peace of mind that your basement is in the hands of the waterproofing professionals.
To arrange a ‘Clean & Check’ for your basement simply call 0800 019 9949 or visit https://www.basementsumpandpump.co.uk/
