A Guide To Basement Tanking Methods

Before you can begin renovating your cellar, you need to ensure the right basement tanking system has been applied to safeguard the space from excess moisture and damp. In this article, the experts at Croft Preservation, the South’s leading damp specialists, explain exactly what basement tanking is and outline two of the most effective ways to go about it.

What is basement tanking? 

Basement tanking involves applying a waterproof barrier to the walls of a basement in order to prevent moisture penetration and therefore subsequent damp and mould problems. Once the appropriate waterproofing solution has been applied, the basement’s walls can be covered or plastered to create a smooth surface on which to decorate and the space can then be used for any number of purposes.

There are a range of different basement tanking methods to make your cellar watertight and ready for renovation, but our damp experts highlight two of the most popular systems below.

Tanking Coating

One of the simpler methods of basement tanking is to apply a waterproof coating. To create a tanking coating, the first step is to clean the walls of dust, debris, old or damaged plaster or paint and then apply a coat of salt neutraliser to prevent any salts seeping through to the coating solution. Any holes or cracks should also be filled.

Once this has been done, the first layer of tanking coating, whether that be bitumen, asphalt, resin/tar or slurry, can be applied. Mixing the solution correctly is incredibly important as a failure to do so can lead to the product failing. The first coat must be completely dry before applying the second, finishing coat. Once this second coat has dried, the wall is ready to be given a finish, such as plaster and paint.

Waterproof Membrane

Tanking membranes, sometimes known as cavity drain membranes, are usually a studded or dimpled sheet of plastic that is fixed onto the basement’s masonry, block or rendered walls and then sealed to keep the water out. Once installed, basement tanking membranes can be covered by plasterboard or plaster to allow for your desired finishing decoration, whether that be paint or wallpaper.

It is vital that the appropriate basement tanking method is applied to your cellar in order to provide an effective and lasting solution. This is why it’s always highly recommended an experienced and reputable company carries out a survey and any remedial works deemed appropriate.

If your basement or cellar is suffering from a damp problem, our basement tanking service will turn your damp basement into valuable space for your home. Contact our basement waterproofing experts today on 01202 737739 to arrange a quote.