Basement conversion Colchester

Partly earth-retaining or completely below ground level structures can experience lateral penetration as a common problem. If the basement is not intended to be a habitable area of your home this is not really a problem. However, if you are planning on doing a basement conversion in order to add more living space to your home various options can be considered. Our surveyor will be able to carry out an inspection and provide a detailed report and estimate on the most suitable method for basement conversion.

BS8102:2009 is the British Standard for waterproofing below-ground structures. Working to this standard ensures consistently high quality and also reduces the possibility of waterproofing systems failing. There are three types of protection available.

Cementitious Tanking
If the substrate is in good condition, then a traditional method of cementitious multi render coat can be applied directly to the walls of the basement. However, if the substrate is in poor condition the slightest movement or hairline crack in the substrate would cause a failure in this method of conversion.

Cavity Drainage Membrane
This more modern tanking alternative uses a plastic dimpled membrane which includes drainage channels, a sump chamber and a pump. This method of basement conversion cannot withstand water pressure, but it can still divert water away from the basement creating a dry usable space. The walls can then be finished in insulated plasterboard and skimmed with plaster or rendered depending on the type of finish you are looking for in your basement conversion.

Dry Lining System (without drainage)
Another method to provide protection from damp or salt contamination in your basement conversion is a a ventilated dry lining system without full drainage. You can also use a plastic membrane for this purpose, but it is not recommended if standing water is present as it cannot resist water pressure and will not be guaranteed waterproof.

No matter which method above you choose for basement conversion, two other important factors should be considered. These are mechanical ventilation, especially if the cellar doesn’t have windows, and adequate heating.

Waterproofing to Floors
Our experienced surveyor will sometimes recommend applying Epoxy resin for tanking solid damp floors that are still in good structural condition. In most cases two coats of resin will be enough to provide a durable membrane that is waterproof and can stand up to mechanical wear.

Do not hesitate to contact us to get a quote for basement conversion in Colchester and the surrounding areas.