Damp, mould, condensation and wood rot are all common occurrences in homes and can arise for several different reasons. This may be due to poor build quality, lack of building maintenance or the deterioration of building fabric. Reasons that may cause these problems could be from leaking pipes, damaged window frames or even damaged drainage all of which should not be overlooked.
If you have a cellar or basement damp, mould and wood rot can affect the whole room as these rooms were never designed for modern living. Cellar and basements can quite commonly suffer from severe rising damp and even flooding which means they are never used to their full potential, companies like Kenwood can provide cellar tanking which enable basements and cellars to be transformed into a suitable damp and rot free living space.
Waterproofing Cellars
Although you may not need to convert your cellar into a living space you will still need it to be waterproof in order to prevent any damages such as mould, rotting and damp that can occur. Waterproofing can also increase the value to your home and open up options in the future for you or other potential buyers. If your cellar or basement has correct treatment in place it can be used as an effective storage area and even be transformed into another room.
As cellars and basement are typically below ground level and the earth surrounding the rooms act as a route for water to enter through the walls, and in order to prevent this from happening, the walls must be fully waterproofed and secure. There are several ways in which this can be done but you will need the help of a professional. By sealing the walls using a surface coating known as wet cellar tanking or a membrane system it will allow for your cellar to be protected.
Tanking Systems
Tanking systems are one of the most popular methods to ensure your basement or cellar is waterproof. They work by applying a waterproof coating directly to the inside of the porous cellar walls to prevent any moisture from seeping in. This system however does not remove the water but simply creates a barrier between the two. In order for this system to be effective the walls that the tanking is being applied must provide a good base coat. Before the tanking system is applied they require the brickwork of the house to be stable due to the fact that tanked walls need to resist water pressure that will build up over time. If you home is an older build the walls will need to be prepared and it can be rather time consuming. If there are weaker points in the structure typically in the walls or floor, attention will have to be paid.
Membrane Systems
The other method used by professionals on cellar conversions, and are highly advised for areas with high water tables and on older properties as they do not rely on substrates for their effectiveness is a membrane system. The majority of these systems involve studded membranes and are fixed to the walls with plastic plugs. These systems allow water to flow down within the cavity created to the floor which will also be covered with a membrane and into a drainage system. Membrane systems means an air created gap is created, which acts as a depressurisation zone for any water that comes through the walls. When the water enters, under great pressure it loses its force and falls behind the membrane into the drainage and the water flows out. Ultimately these systems will add to the floor height of the cellar, reducing ceiling space. If you have a basement or cellar, professionals will consult with you on the best system for your house.