Tanking

About Tanking

Tanking and waterproofing create a solid seal to protect walls in the home from water leakage. Rooms that are below ground level, like basements, tend to be cold and damp and are more susceptible to moisture damage. The use of waterproof tanking prevents costly ruin and the growth of mould. 

Advantages 

Waterproof tanking comes with several benefits that prevent leakage and structural damage caused by excess moisture and vapour that otherwise will permeate the walls of an unsealed room. 

Protection from Leaks

Waterproof tanking membrane paint can protect the surface and structure of any below-ground spaces that are dark and damp. The membrane installation does not remove moisture from the room but prevents it from permeating the walls of the structure.

The strong seal created by the membrane prevents leakage from the walls and any damage to furniture in the room they would endure without the seal application. 

Mould Prevention

Tanking stops leakage and moisture that causes mould and mildew to grow on any damp surfaces of the structure in the room. Mould damages furniture and carpeting due to continuous exposure to moisture. Mildew stains the ceiling and will weaken the structure if untreated. 

Safety Precaution 

Concrete tank waterproofing creates a strong, sealed barrier between the walls of the room to prevent leakage. Without this barrier, the integrity of the structure is at risk of failing, causing the home or building to be unsafe. 

Application

Applying waterproof tanking membrane paint requires a few steps that should be followed in order and within the necessary time frame for all coats to dry properly.

The substrate should be damp without excess water on the surface before application. Two coats should be applied - the first painted directly onto the structure horizontally before vertically applying the second coat 2-24 hours later when the first coat is dry. 

The second coat should always be applied within 24 hours. If the tanking needs to be exposed before rendering, apply an additional coat 1 hour before applying the second coat to ensure the seal is firm. 

Methods 

Waterproof Concrete

This method includes admixtures added to the concrete for concrete tank waterproofing to make the concrete more water-resistant. Concrete tank waterproofing is the least expensive waterproof tanking option and is the easiest to install because it doesn't require a separate application process. Water-proof concrete is optimal for low or medium-risk projects that allow for some moisture to be present. Little to no maintenance is required to maintain the seal.

Drainage

With a drainage method, wall construction creates a hole for water to be pumped out of the outer wall of the structure.

Waterproof Membranes

Waterproof membranes create a physical barrier outside the below-grade structure. Its purpose is to prevent moisture and vapour from passing through.

Factors

Cost 

The first factor interested parties must consider is the cost they are working with. The budget for completing the waterproof tanking project will determine how much of the space can be covered in waterproof tanking membrane paint to seal off any vulnerabilities in the structure. The owner's expectations of the performance of the material will be a deciding factor in what material will be used as the seal. 

The presence of valuables in the room and the availability of resources to maintain the tanking affect costs that will arise after the initial application. 

Space 

How the below-ground space is used and whether it is finished or unfinished determines what material needs to be used for the tanking. A basement is considered completed when the level has permanent access and is identical to the spaces above ground, including a working electrical system and heating.  

Concrete tank waterproofing requires minor maintenance but is not ideal for high-risk projects or finished spaces because concrete is not 100% impermeable when it is applied alone. 

Installation

Steps to take when installing waterproof tanking membrane paint:

• Measure the surface. Before buying the membrane material, measure the total wall area that requires an application.
• Prep the wall. The surface needs to be levelled out to instal the membrane material or paint directly onto the wall. No mould or unstable plaster should be present.
• Fixing membrane to the wall. Use a roller or brush to evenly coat the surface of the wall with a thin layer of paint.
• Seal off the gaps. To completely seal the surface, use waterproofing tape to cover up areas where water ingress can travel through the joints.

Care and Maintenance 

Little upkeep is needed once a membrane is installed. Periodic checkups to ensure the material is still sealed without any damage will guarantee the room is still protected. 

Each material has an elongation period that allows the sealant to naturally move with the building and protect it from daily wear and tear. The bond can break from high impact forces or when it begins to reach the end of its lifetime, around ten years. 

Contact the supplier to learn specific care and maintenance tips. Additionally, the supplier will be able to suggest the best product for an individual's needs. 

Tanking the interior rooms of any house or building is essential in enforcing the integrity of the structure. Purchase a waterproofing sealant that forms an adhesive bond to concrete to tank any spaces below ground level. The installation of this invisible feature offers protection that lasts. 

If you need assistance to find the right tanking for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.