Tanking Solutions for Existing Basements
aren't the Answer

Converting a damp cellar or basement was traditionally accomplished through a method called tanking. This antiquated means of preventing water from entering the basement or cellar involves a couple methods of building up layers of a concrete tanking slurry and tanking membranes to attempt to hold back water.

There are two main tanking methods for waterproofing existing cellars and basements. Both types may stop water when first installed, but neither addresses the existing water around the perimeter of the cellar.

The ultimate way to make a basement or cellar waterproof is to drain the water away below the floor level. This addresses the existing water standing around the foundation and eliminates it before it can become a problem of leaking up onto the cellar floor.

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The two methods of tanking include:

Cementitious Waterproofing Slurries

This method of basement tanking involves multiple coats of a cement-based powder which is mixed with water (a tanking slurry) and applied to walls, floors, and ceilings by spray or trowel. It sets to form a bond with the masonry substrate, with the intent of creating an impervious barrier to the movement of water.

Studded Membranes

This second method of cellar tanking does not rely on the soundness of the underlying substrate for its effectiveness. A waterproof membrane is fastened to walls and ceilings, whilst on the floor there is normally no need for any form of fixing.

The waterproof membrane can then be covered with plasterboard, screed, or a floating floor. A drainage facility, incorporating a sump and a pump, will need to be included as part of the system.