How Cavity Membrane Systems Protect Cellars And Basements From Dampness

The areas of your London home that are most likely to suffer from dampness issues are the cellars and basements where water can naturally seep down into them. The damp causes moisture damage and prevents you from using your subterranean spaces effectively as a living area, or for hobbies or storage. If this is happening, contact an independent damp surveyor to find the source of the problem and decide upon a solution. One of the most effective solutions is to install a cavity membrane system.

Cavity membrane systems are used to damp-proof underground areas by allowing water to pass through the internal walls at the back of a high-density polyethene membrane fashioned installed on the basement or cellar’s surfaces, including the walls, floors, and the ceiling if your independent damp survey deems it necessary. The system uses a drainage channel to move water from the foundations to a sump pump that then carries it outside your home.

The cavity membrane system is a Type C waterproofing solution meant to provide your home with drained protection. Cavity membrane systems are a great way to damp-proof an existing home’s basements and cellars, and are highly recommended for use in new construction.

Ground water places hydrostatic pressure on external subsurface walls, so they must be able to withstand its buildup. Walls will provide some pressure resistance, but water might be able to seep through any weak spots, leading to dampness and flooding, which can cause terrible damage.

Your independent damp surveyor may recommend a cavity membrane system be installed to keep your below-ground spaces safe from the problems water ingress will cause. Any moisture that enters through the outer walls is redirected by the membrane system to a drain so it can run off safely outdoors. The membrane system provides a barrier that prevents water from seeping in through the walls so any items stored in the cellar or basement are protected from harm.

Refurbishment projects in older homes and new builds both utilise cavity membrane systems, but they must have an accessible modular drainage set-up to begin with. With that necessary prerequisite put in place during the prep work, the cavity membrane system can be installed. The preparations include treating new brickwork, stonework, or concrete with an anti-lime substance that will prevent limescale from forming on the new drainage system’s interior.

The cavity membrane damp proofing system is considered to be one of the most reliable options available, they are expected to last for many years, so your cellar and basement spaces are always well protected from the damp and remain dry and comfortable.

At London Damp Specialists, our experienced surveyors utilise cutting-edge technology to diagnose damp issues, so our inspections are always performed to the highest standard. If you have a rising damp problem just call London Damp Specialists on 020 7523 5882 and we will dispatch an independent damp surveyor near you to help ascertain your damp problem. We are here to help keep you safe and dry!