What is Type A waterproofing?

Type A waterproofing, often called 'Barrier Protection,' involves applying a waterproof material to the internal or external surfaces of the structure. This blocks water ingress physically. Examples include external adhesive membranes applied before backfilling (positive side) or internal multi-coat rendering/tanking slurries (negative side). While effective, Type A relies 100% on the workmanship and substrate preparation; a single defect can lead to failure, which is why we often combine it with other systems.

What is Type B waterproofing?

Type B waterproofing is 'Structurally Integral Protection.' It relies on the design and materials of the structure itself to be water-resistant. This is typically achieved using waterproof concrete (containing hydrophobic admixtures) and waterstops embedded in the construction joints (like hydrophilic strips or metal waterbars). While the concrete itself blocks water, the joints are the weak points, which is why MPS specializes in injection hose systems to seal these joints post-construction if needed.

What is Type C waterproofing?

Type C waterproofing is 'Drained Protection.' Instead of trying to hold back massive hydrostatic pressure physically, it accepts that some water may penetrate the shell but manages it. It uses a Cavity Drain Membrane (an egg-crate shaped plastic sheet) applied to walls and floors. Water runs behind the membrane into a perimeter drainage channel and is directed to a sump pump station, where it is pumped away. This is often considered the safest method for existing basements as it does not rely on perfect structural integrity.

What is hydrostatic pressure?

Hydrostatic pressure is the pressure exerted by a fluid at equilibrium due to the force of gravity. In waterproofing terms, it is the weight of the groundwater pushing against your basement walls and floor. The deeper the basement, the higher the pressure. This pressure forces water through even microscopic cracks in concrete. Effective waterproofing must either block this pressure (Type A/B) or relieve it via drainage (Type C).

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Waterproofing Protection Construction

What is 'tanking' a basement?

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What is 'tanking' a basement?

Expert Answer

Tanking is a traditional term for applying a waterproof lining to a basement, effectively turning it into a watertight tank. It usually refers to Type A waterproofing using cementitious slurries or bituminous coatings. Tanking must be able to withstand 'negative hydrostatic pressure'—the water pushing the coating *off* the wall. Because of this, surface preparation (removing paint/plaster to reach the brick/concrete) is absolutely vital for a tanking system to hold.

Topics: Waterproofing Protection Construction

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What is 'tanking' a basement?

What is 'tanking' a basement?

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Related Questions

What is Type A waterproofing?

What is Type B waterproofing?

What is Type C waterproofing?

What is hydrostatic pressure?

What is a Cavity Drain Membrane?

How to Seal Pipes & Services Through Concrete

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What is 'tanking' a basement?

What is 'tanking' a basement?

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Related Questions

What is Type A waterproofing?

What is Type B waterproofing?

What is Type C waterproofing?

What is hydrostatic pressure?

What is a Cavity Drain Membrane?

How to Seal Pipes & Services Through Concrete

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