New Best Practice Guidance for Basement Waterproofing

Waterproofing is a major issue for domestic basement construction and use. New best practice guidance for basement waterproofing has been published by The Basement Information Centre (TBIC), in conjunction with MPA The Concrete Centre. The new guidance takes account of the requirements of BS8102:2009 which includes the recommendation that a waterproofing specialist is involved in any basement project from the design stage. 

‘Basements: Waterproofing – general guidance to BS8102:2009’ provides guidance on the design, construction and waterproofing of single-storey domestic basements. It is written primarily to cover new-build but many of the considerations apply equally to existing basements. In particular, the guide examines the main types of waterproofing systems. It also provides technical information on water tables, soil characteristics, drainage, and means of assessing risk. 

A fundamental change introduced to BS8102 is the inclusion of the recommendation that a waterproofing specialist is included as an integral part of the design team to ensure that a fully integrated waterproofing solution is realised. This takes account of the fact that much of the failure of waterproofing is attributable to insufficient consideration being given to design factors such as site, soil and water table conditions, construction movement and expansion and correct drainage provision.

“The involvement of a waterproofing specialist at the design stage is crucial”, explained Alan Tovey of TBIC. “This is recognised by the British Standard and forwarded by the new best practice guidance.”

 Basements, when designed and constructed correctly, are a win:win. They give builders a good return on their outlay by maximising land use and offer homeowners the potential for increased living space. However, that winning combination will only be realised with proper waterproofing. This new guide shows how that is achieved.

‘Basements: Waterproofing – general guidance to BS8102:2009’ is available from www.concretebookshop.com priced £15.00.