Waterproofing design is a complex task. In short YES! Gone are the days of architects undertaking the role of waterproofing design in a project.
Getting the design correct prior to construction will save significant costs!
British Standard 8102:2009 Code of Practice for Protection of Below Ground Structures Against Water from the Ground (BS8102:2009) recommends that every design team/waterproofing project incorporates a Waterproofing Design Specialist.
As set out in Section 4.2 of BS 8102:2009 under the heading “Design Team”, the code states:-
“A waterproofing specialist should be included as part of the design team so that an integrated waterproofing solution is created. The waterproofing specialist should:-
a) be suitably experienced;
b) be capable of devising solutions that accommodate the various project constraints and needs;
c) provide the design team with information and guidance that assists with and influences the design, installation and future maintenance of the waterproofed structure.”
What is a Waterproofing Design Specialist?
A Waterproofing Design Specialist offers expertise in structural waterproofing. A Waterproofing Design Specialist should:
- Be able to list the principal considerations for a robust waterproofing design
- Have CSSW as a minimum standard of qualification
- Offer knowledge on waterproofing systems available
- Have an in-depth understanding of BS8102:2009 and its requirements
- Have desk top study & risk assessment knowledge – these should form part of any Designers Report and Waterproofing Design
- Have an understanding on sources of water (such as how it flows through the soil and interacts with the structures).
- Have structural knowledge
- Have knowledge of Ground Gases
- Have geotechnical knowledge (to be able to understand the implications of a soil report)
- Produce a Design Report, Method Statements and Waterproof Design drawings.
Every construction project is different. A Waterproofing Design Specialist should be introduced at the earliest stages of design to ensure the structural waterproofing system is compliant to BS8102:2009.
A Waterproofing Design Specialist should attend site, undertake site investigations, produce reports and manage documentation in relation to the design, ensuring at all stages that sufficient protection is designed into the project.
Warranty providers such as NHBC require that a criterion has been accomplished prior to issuing a warranty.If you are developing a property and are intending to sell it, rent it or refinance it - you will need a Building Warranty or a Professional Consultants Certificate (PCC).Mortgage Lenders will only lend on a property if it is covered by an approved warranty policy.
How do you find a Waterproofing Design Specialist?
The Property Care Association has devised a Register which provides a central point for individuals with the relevant waterproofing design skills.
To be accepted as a PCA Waterproofing Design Specialist, applicants must be able to demonstrate that they have the necessary skills in:
- Diagnostic investigation and problem solving
- Report writing
- Understand all the aspects of BS8102:2009 and other relevant industry standard
- Building construction and waterproofing techniques
- Knowledge of the products and techniques commonly used in waterproofing.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is compulsory for all PCA accredited Waterproofing Design Specialist. In addition, every Waterproofing Design Specialist is required to acknowledge and uphold the PCA’s code of Ethics and all relevant standards that relate to the conduct and behaviour of its members.
The PCA register allows developers, architects, builders etc to quickly locate vetted and approved Waterproofing Design Specialists who can assist in the design and planning of underground waterproofing.
A Waterproofing Design Specialist will work with architects, surveyors, contractors and engineers to provide a design service which complies with BS8102:2009 and offers detail to design. The ability to easily identify and engage a Waterproofing Design Specialist will allow a design team to conform to the recommendation set out in BS8102:2009.
Structural Warranty Provider Requirements
Structural Warranty Providers such as NHBC stipulate that it is a mandatory requirement that a CSSW qualified waterproofing designer is involved in the waterproofing design process and other warranty providers such as Premier Guarantees and LABC are following suit.
Delta Membrane Systems Limited offer CSSW training and examinations at their fully functional training facilities in Epping Essex, hosted by the PCA. All of Delta’s Technical Team are CSSW qualified surveyors and registered to the “Waterproofing Design Register”.Our Technical Team would be delighted to help with your waterproofing designs/projects.
