Waterproofing
Structural waterproofing
Waterproofing design for below-ground and earth-retaining structures.
What the issue is
Structural waterproofing covers the design and installation of systems that keep below-ground and earth-retaining structures dry, including retaining walls, lightwells and vaults.
Common symptoms
- Damp or wet retaining walls
- Water ingress at floor and wall junctions
- Salting on below-ground walls
- Damp affecting adjoining habitable rooms
Likely contributing factors
- Groundwater and hydrostatic pressure
- Defective or absent external waterproofing
- Failed joints and penetrations
- Surface water drainage defects
Conditions that may be mistaken for it
- Condensation in cool below-ground spaces
- Leaking services
How the issue should be investigated
- Establish construction and existing waterproofing
- Assess water levels and drainage
- Identify entry points and risk areas
- Consider the intended use of the space
Potential treatment or repair options
- Cavity drainage systems
- Cementitious and reactive coatings
- External waterproofing where accessible
- Drainage and pumping arrangements
- Joint and penetration detailing
When treatment may not be appropriate
- Where drainage correction resolves the issue
- Where the proposed system is not suited to the water conditions
Factors affecting the cost
- Area and complexity of the structure
- System specification
- Drainage and pumping
- Access and reinstatement
What to expect during an inspection
An assessment of the structure, water conditions and access, followed by a considered waterproofing recommendation.
Final recommendations always depend on the property, the inspection findings and the confirmed cause. Elevated readings alone do not confirm rising damp, not every mould problem requires extensive treatment, and damp-affected plaster does not always need replacing.
Frequently asked questions
Next step
Not sure which inspection you need? Start with a few questions.
Tell us what you are seeing and we will set out what is likely, what is uncertain and which inspection would answer the question. Speak to us on 0333 335 6152 if you would rather talk it through.