Cellar conversion Chelmsford

Partly earth-retaining or completely below ground level structures can be prone to hydrostatic pressure of moisture (lateral penetration). If the cellar is not an area you intent to live in this is not a problem. But if you are planning on a cellar conversion and living in the space, you need to consider variations options to get it up to scratch and turn it into habitable accommodation. Our surveyor will be pleased to carry out an inspection and provide a detailed report and estimate on the most suitable method for your cellar.

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. We offer three different types of protection in order to get a cellar conversion.

Cementitious Tanking
The traditional method of tanking is a cementitious multi render coat applied directly to the wall of the cellar. This also includes a waterproofing agent. This relies on the substrate being in a sound condition, if it is not the slightest movement or a hairline crack in the substrate could be enough to cause failure.

Cavity Drainage Membrane
A modern alternative is to use a plastic dimpled membrane, usually incorporating drainage channels, a sump chamber and pump. It will not be able to withstand water pressure, but it will still produce a usable dry area by diverting water away from it. The cellar walls can then be finished with insulated plasterboard and skimmed. Or you can apply render directly to a meshed membrane.

Dry Lining System (without drainage)
A ventilated dry lining system can be used without full drainage provision in order to give protection from damp or salt contamination. Plastic membrane can also be used for this purpose. However, this method will not be recommended where standing water exists, as it will not resist water pressure and so cannot be guaranteed waterproof.

Whichever method you use for your cellar conversion there are two important factors to be considered. Mechanical ventilation (if no windows exist) and adequate heating.

Waterproofing to Floors
In come cases the cellar floor will require an Epoxy resin as a suitable medium for tanking solid damp floors, which are otherwise in a sound structural condition. Two coats will normally be enough to provide a waterproof membrane which can tolerate normal mechanical wear.

Get in touch with us today to enquire about your cellar conversion in Chelmsford and the surrounding area.