Beware of me too builders when it comes to basement conversions |
Posted: June 1, 2018 |
Sump pumps, drainage channels - it can all sound very intimidating. It needn’t be though. Basically, there are companies that have been doing this stuff for a long time, and particularly in London, they have detailed knowledge of how to waterproof even the most problematic basement in London, so that it becomes a dry and pleasant living space. However, given the rush of unqualified builders into the basement conversion business, you need to look for a couple of confidence-building registrations. First of all, any company that you’re going to use ought to be registered with the British Structural Waterproofing Association (BSWA). That shows that they know what they’re doing, are aware of the latest developments, have a professional approach and are competent and reputable. Check out registrations Unfortunately, because registration is demanding and much prized, unscrupulous firms have been known to simply add the logo to their web page without actually going to the bother of registering - or more likely, being turned down. So do check that a firm you’re thinking of using is really registered - click on the logo, and enter the company’s details at the BSWA site. Secondly, if you’re going to waterproof your basement using a membrane, use a proven system and make sure the installer is registered to work with it. You’re about to spend a lot of money, and you want to be sure that the work is done properly and adds to the value of the house, rather than bodged - a leaking, damp conversion will actually have the opposite effect. Make sure the membrane installer knows what they’re doing Delta waterproofing is reckoned to be one of the best membrane systems for waterproofing a basement in London - if it's properly installed. Their cavity membranes go up to the ceiling, then the floors are also membraned and drainage channels installed. With a reputable company, a lot of care is taken to ensure that the system can be maintained and that there won’t be blockages. The membrane should be made of a material such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Delta’s are made in Germany to exacting specifications, and under strict environmental control. The membrane lines the wall, waterproofing it and creating a cavity for the water to drain away. Then the water is captured by a sump pump or a drainage channel and pumped away. Correct diagnosis is vital Dampness can be caused in lots of different ways, and the solutions may be different, so a company like Delta is slightly fanatical about having installers who are certificated as competent at diagnosing the dampness problem and defining the correct solution. It’s no good being a great installer of the wrong system - the end result will still be unsatisfactory. When it comes to basements, the key advice is not to cut corners on this structural work. Compromise on the fitting out, or the furnishings - but never on the waterproofing and the construction.
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