Before you can begin renovating your cellar, you need to ensure the right basement tanking system has been applied to safeguard the space from excess moisture and damp. In this article, the experts at Croft Preservation, the South’s leading damp specialists, explain exactly what basement tanking is and outline two of the most effective ways to go about it.
Basement tanking involves applying a waterproof barrier to the walls of a basement in order to prevent moisture penetration and therefore subsequent damp and mould problems. Once the appropriate waterproofing solution has been applied, the basement’s walls can be covered or plastered to create a smooth surface on which to decorate and the space can then be used for any number of purposes.
There are a range of different basement tanking methods to make your cellar watertight and ready for renovation, but our damp experts highlight two of the most popular systems below.
One of the simpler methods of basement tanking is to apply a waterproof coating. This is best suited for an existing dry basement or cellar at your property. To create a tanking coating, the first step is to clean the walls of dust, debris, old or damaged plaster or paint and then apply a coat of salt neutraliser to prevent any salts seeping through to the coating solution. Any holes or cracks should also be filled.
Once this has been done, the first layer of tanking coating (whether that be bitumen, asphalt, resin/tar or slurry) can be applied to help create a waterproof barrier and watertight seal. The first coat must be completely dry before applying the second, finishing coat. Once this second coat has dried, the wall is ready to be plastered or painted.
Known as a dry or mechanical system, tanking membranes (sometimes known as cavity drain membranes) are usually a studded or dimpled sheet of plastic that is fixed onto the basement’s masonry, block or rendered walls and then sealed to keep the water out. Such a system works best for new basement excavations or if the area is specifically damp.
Once installed, basement tanking membranes can be covered by plasterboard or plaster to allow for your desired finishing decoration, whether that be paint or wallpaper.
It is vital that the appropriate basement tanking method is applied to your cellar in order to provide an effective and lasting solution.
Croft is a reputable company with 30 years’ industry experience that can survey and complete the remedial works required to protect your basement or cellar from any unwanted leakages.
If your basement or cellar is suffering from a damp problem, our basement tanking service will turn your damp basement into valuable space for your home. Contact our basement waterproofing experts today on 01202 737739 to arrange a quote.
