Basement flooding is a worry you don’t want to have, but when you do, you want it fixed quickly. In London, flooding is a risk for homeowners and businesses. The increase in heavy rainfall means that London basements and cellars are flooding more often.
Basements will almost always be damp because of the way they are made. Moisture present in the ground penetrates through the walls and floors of cellars and basements. Flooding occurs when water in the ground builds up against the structure, creating hydrostatic pressure.
The groundwater level can increase because of heavy rainfall, the location of the property near watercourses, the construction of nearby basements, or a burst water main. You might only see a small amount of water enter your basement during flooding, but you may find that water can enter your cellar quickly in a short space of time.
Whether you have just moved into a London home or your long-term residence is experiencing more flooding problems, it can be treated. With the right waterproofing system in place, you can make basement flooding a thing of the past.
At Delta Force Waterproofing, we specialise in fully tanking basements for both new builds and existing properties. Whether you are constructing a brand-new basement or upgrading an older structure, we provide complete waterproofing solutions designed to protect your space for the long term.
Waterproofing Your Basement
Basement waterproofing can be done in different ways, depending on your needs. The appropriate waterproofing system will be installed based on whether you want to use your basement for dry storage or convert it into another room.
If you want to waterproof your basement, you should get a CSSW-qualified surveyor to do it for you. Waterproofing of below-ground structures, including basements and cellars, is covered by the code of practice BS8102:2022. The design of your waterproofing system will consider:
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The proposed use of the basement
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Accessibility for maintenance
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Suitability of the chosen method for the structure
Type C Cavity Drainage Membrane
The most popular method for waterproofing basements and cellars is the Type C cavity drainage system. This is the industry standard and the most reliable system you can get for your home. A polymer-studded membrane is installed and applied to the walls and floor.
Using drainage channels around the perimeter, it leads to either a sump and pump or existing drainage systems. By managing the water entering the basement, you won’t have to worry about additional stresses induced within the structure from hydrostatic pressure.
Type B – Structural Waterproofing
Type B waterproofing is built into the structure itself, typically during construction. This involves using waterproof concrete or additives to resist water penetration from the ground.
This method is ideal for new build basements and is often combined with other systems to provide enhanced protection and long-term performance.
Type A – Cementitious Tanking
Cementitious tanking involves applying a waterproof coating directly to the walls and floors of your basement to create a barrier against water.
This system prevents moisture from penetrating the structure and is commonly used in older properties or where external waterproofing is not possible. It is a cost-effective solution for areas with lower levels of water pressure.
External Waterproofing
External waterproofing is applied to the outside of the basement walls, stopping water before it can enter the structure.
This method often involves excavation around the property and the installation of external membranes and drainage systems. It is highly effective and commonly used in new builds or major renovation projects.
