Waterproofing Underground Concrete Structures

Waterproofing is the formation of an impervious barrier over surfaces of foundations roofs walls and other structural members.

Waterproofing underground concrete structures.

Waterstop is the most typically used waterproofing material in the construction of underground concrete structures to prevent water leakage at joints of discretely consecutive concrete structures. Classification and materials used in integral waterproofing damp proofing admixtures is given in table 1 below. The protection of an underground structure can be performed using a positive side exterior or negative interior waterproofing system. The utilization of liquid waterproofing membrane cementitious materials polyurethane liquid membrane and bituminous.

Liquid water penetration is stopped by the structure itself and cannot entirely pass through into the basement. Even where underground structures have been built using expensive waterproof concrete to bs 8007 consideration will still need to be given to the waterproofing of construction joints. Concrete curing times for liquid membranes also vary considerably. Typical products are admixtures for watertight concrete combined with appropriate joint sealing systems for connections construction and movement joints.

In which case it is necessary to waterproof the concrete to prevent damaged caused. Others can be applied as soon as the forms are removed. The function of the impermeable barrier is to prevent water penetrations. Many government agencies have specified the performance requirements of waterstops in the construction of concrete structures.

In general the preferred system is a positive side waterproofing system that protects the structure from all types of attack while providing a tight waterproof membrane. Spray applied membrane can be applied between layers of sprayed or cast in place concrete or applied as a stand alone membrane exhibiting high bond strength to the substrates on both sides of the membrane. Most waterproofing systems need protection during backfilling. Usually there is no sealing membrane to prevent damp and water from penetrating the concrete.

Underground and foundation structures are vulnerable constructions when it comes to damp and water leakage. The building surfaces are made water resistant and sometimes waterproof. The water vapor escaping from the concrete can prevent the waterproofing material from bonding. Waterproofing concrete and brick in underground structures.

Some require 14 days or longer.