Basement Conversion Services

 

We use the cavity draiange membrane method which is used as a below ground water proofing material, the membrane works on the principle of allowing water to continue to penetrate the structure, but control it in the air gaps between the cavities of the membrane and divert it to a suitable drainage point. pressure connot build up against the internal construction and the air gap behind the membrane allows the structure to breathe and to some extenet dry out, i.e. it keeps the dampness as mouisture rather than a liquid. this method can also be used in heritage/listed buildings.

The main component of the system is an H.D.P.E (High Density Polyethylene Extrusion) membrane with a thickness of 0.6mm and a stud formation with a height of 9mm. The studs serve to hold the product away from the areas that are being treated, allowing an air gap of 5.5 litres per m2. water vapour can therfore mobve unhindered in all directions and damp pressure equalisation is achived. The reasons why we use this particular method is that is carries a 20 year guarantee, it allows for better air flow and therefore no condensation can occur, the surface can be decorated immediatly, electric cables, plumbing pipes etc can be concealed and it is resistant to cracks, vibration and building movement.

Where water ingress is noted, we always recommend that a sump with a automatic pump be incorportated into the system.

The Cavity Drainage Membrane method can be installed on walls,ceilings and floors using waterproof sealing plugs, battens and plasterboard and then skimmed with finish plaster.  Floor areas to be tanked are finished with tongue and groove pre-treated boards/stone slab. Once this process has been completed, the walls/ceiling will have been reduced by 45-48mm. The floor will be raised between approximately 30mm-60mm depending on the type of flooring specified by the surveyor. This is essential to allow constant moisture to evaporate behind the H.D.P.E membrane.

 

Water entering the building through the walls is controlled behind the Membrane and diverted to the Aqua Channel at the base of the wall. The water enters the Aqua Channel through pre-drilled 19mm drainage holes set 70mm apart along its length and is then diverted to a suitable drainage point, either natural or a sump and mechanical pump. Jetting eyes (cleaning ports) can also be incorporated into the aqua channel.

Once the water pushes the flotation device to a certain level the pump will automatically switch itself on and pump the water to a nearby drain. Once the floatation device returns to its original level the pump will then switch itself off. Insulation is fixed to the lid to prevent noise vibration