Battens on top of Cavity Drain Membrane

Following the waterproofing of the basement, the next step involved preparing it for the skim coating process, ultimately transforming it into a functional storage area. To achieve this, we meticulously lined the walls with 25mm battens, ensuring they were securely fastened in a plumb and square manner. These battens serve as a sturdy framework to support the installation of moisture-resistant plasterboards, a crucial component in creating a durable and moisture-resistant wall surface.

Dehumidifying process and new render

Ensuring the walls are completely dry before applying new render is of paramount importance. To achieve this, we employ industrial dehumidifiers, which effectively remove excess moisture from the walls, guaranteeing their thorough dryness.

At Crystal Damp Proofing, our commitment goes beyond mere surface solutions; we diligently trace and address the underlying issues at their source. We don’t just cover the problem; we excavate its roots and provide comprehensive solutions to ensure lasting results.

Following the thorough drying process, we applied a meticulously crafted treatment to fortify the walls against moisture. This involved the application of two coats of hydrophobic render infused with Trimix1 integral waterproofer, enhancing the walls’ resistance to water infiltration.

In addition to this, we applied two coats of TT55 tanking slurry, further reinforcing the barrier against moisture and ensuring the long-term durability of the protective system.

Fibreglass mesh

Due to the property’s old age, the walls had developed cracks and were covered in stubborn wallpaper adhesive residue. To address this, we took the following steps:

First, we applied a high-quality, highly penetrative grit primer to the walls.

Next, we applied two coats of adhesive combined with fiberglass mesh to reinforce the structural integrity of the walls, ensuring they are well-prepared for the application of new plaster.

Reinforcement

The process of preparing the excavation for the new sump pump system; our primary focus is to reinforce both the dug-out walls and the floor, ensuring a robust structure to support the pump effectively.

Furthermore, we will integrate this reinforcement with the construction of the new concrete slab, creating a cohesive and structurally sound unit. This approach will not only provide enhanced stability for the sump pump but also ensure the overall structural integrity of the system as a whole.

The cavity drain membrane, constructed using high-density polyethylene (HDPE), formed a protective barrier between the basement walls and potential water ingress. Its unique dimpled design created an air gap that allowed any water seepage to be directed towards the sump pump system, preventing water accumulation and associated damage.

Before diving into the details of the damp proofing project, it’s important to understand the significance of the problem. Dampness in buildings can arise due to various factors, including rising damp, penetrating damp, or condensation. In this case, the property in Purley was affected by rising damp, which occurs when moisture from the ground seeps into the walls, leading to damage and decay.

Nestled in the picturesque neighborhood of Hammersmith, a magnificent Victorian property recently underwent a transformative journey. With the expert assistance of Crystal Damp Proofing & Basements LTD, the homeowners successfully addressed the persistent challenge of basement dampness.

On 06/06/2022, moisture-related work began at the Sutton & Epsom Rugby Club building. During our inspection, We found the walls on the ground floor of the building to be very damp; the hygrometer measurements indicated 11% to 19% moisture in the walls, which means that the 340mm walls contained about 70-140 litres of water.

On 06/06/2022, moisture-related work began at the Sutton & Epsom Rugby Club building. During our inspection, We found the walls on the ground floor of the building to be very damp; the hygrometer measurements indicated 11% to 19% moisture in the walls, which means that the 340mm walls contained about 70-140 litres of water.