There is an opinion, which is incorrect, that the foundation does not change and does not deform in any way during its entire service life. It does not rot, corrosion does not affect it, and decomposition generally bypasses distant lands. In reality, the foundation is still exposed to these factors and needs additional protection even more than other parts of the house. Sometimes the question arises whether there is a need to waterproof a strip foundation. Groundwater can get into basements, cellars, and even the basement and walls that are higher than the surface of the earth. It is no secret that the constant freezing of moisture droplets inside the walls destroys these walls. A similar process occurs in the upper part of the foundation of the house. We conclude: a building without waterproofing in the foundation quickly comes to naught.
Tape type foundation insulation is available to independent conduct, without additional costs for construction organizations and workers’ services. But, before you start working in full, you need to choose what kind of waterproofing you will use, what the technology for applying this insulation will be. Keep in mind that proper insulation from water does not allow seams, tears, or inconsistencies. It is also necessary to take into account that waterproofing can be both horizontal and vertical.
Building materials with which you can waterproof the surface of a strip foundation have 4 categories:
Coating
Sprayable
Rolled (Paper type)
Penetrating
Thanks to the choice of building material, you will do waterproofing using a certain technology.
It is done using a coating building material, usually bitumen mastics and other insulating materials based on it.
Advantages of waterproofing with bitumen coating
Low cost;
Elasticity;
Excellent hydrophobicity of the coating;
Easy to apply;
Good adhesion.
The duration of operation is not long. After 6 years, bitumen mastic already becomes brittle. This means that the waterproofing layer will be covered with cracks, which means that the protection will soon disappear completely.
For this reason, the type of coating building materials has acquired additives in the form of polymers, rubber, latex, etc. Gaining more and more popularity than standard bitumen mastic. They increase the following characteristics of bitumen mastic:
Elasticity;
Temperature variation when using mastic.
Coating waterproofing technology
Let's explore the topic in more detail, with regard to waterproofing strip-type foundations and coating-type building materials.
In the video below you will see different methods the use of coating waterproofing in order to make the impermeable coating seamless.
The method of manufacturing this waterproofing is not difficult to implement. First you need to prepare for work. Remove construction debris from the surface, as well as dirt, dust, and loose or loose elements. Then, it is necessary to treat the foundation using a special deep primer. Once the primer has dried, it is allowed to apply waterproofing building material to the treated surface. To do this, you will need a brush, a brush designed exclusively for such work. The coating must be continuous and unbreakable.
Coating waterproofing technology
In this method of waterproofing, special building materials are used: roofing felt, which is needed to insulate a strip-type foundation, but poorly buried. And also, aquaizol, helastoply, isoelast and other rolled types of materials.
These building materials have a wide scope of action. They are used from foundation to roofing, and even road work. When using these building materials to protect the foundation of the house, remember that you are immediately protecting from high pressure groundwater, including floods. Horizontal and vertical waterproofing according to roll technology often used in buildings that do not have a basement.
There are several types of roll materials:
Type 1 (pasting) is attached using bitumen mastic, or other compounds with adhesive properties, or a self-adhesive layer;
Type 2 is applied to the surface by surfacing, which makes it necessary to use an additional tool, a gas burner.
Easy to use;
Durable;
Excellent water resistance;
Excellent mechanical strength characteristics;
Based on the composition of rolled building materials, their indicator of susceptibility to destruction is determined, and the magnitude of the influence of the chemicals affecting them is also determined. The rolled type of building materials, which are based on fiberglass fabrics or fiberglass, does not have high deformation rates, but also low resistance to aggressive chemical environments. But this disease avoids polyester, which has increased strength. Please note that roll-type waterproofing can be used with the coating type at the same time, which increases both waterproofing and durability in general.
Waterproofing technology using roll materials
General technological concept:
We prepare the surface. As a result, it should remain dry, leveled and clean.
Apply bitumen mastic to the surface.
Then, using fusing, we apply roofing felt to the foundation, which has already been treated bitumen mastic.
At the joints of the rolled sheets there should be an overlap of approximately 15 cm, and there should also be processing using a gas burner.
Roll-type waterproofing is suitable for both strip and monolithic foundations. Consider the features of applying vertical and horizontal waterproofing.
Waterproofing technology using roll materials
Sprayed waterproofing
In order to make waterproofing monolithically strip foundation with your own hands, you must use the above methods. In this case, the sprayed method of insulation from moisture is also suitable.
Spray-type waterproofing is itself an innovation in the modern construction industry. This insulation perfectly withstands all the obligations assigned to it, and is also applicable for all types of foundations. It is used in the repair of old waterproofing layers, during roofing work, etc. This type of waterproofing has many advantages, but there is only one drawback - the material is very expensive.
Liquid rubber application technology
Advantages:
Durable;
High adhesion;
Easy to apply;
Seamless;
Hardens quickly;
Eco-friendly and non-toxic;
Resistant to ultraviolet radiation.
Elastic.
We clean the surface and treat it with an antiseptic. Using a sprayer specified for this purpose, we apply a waterproofing coating without seams. There is a need for additional surface reinforcement using geotextiles.
Penetrating waterproofing
One of the most effective and, at the same time, expensive methods of waterproofing a strip foundation. The building material used in this method is usually made from cement, various additives and quartz sand. The method of applying this waterproofing is similar to applying plaster. It should be taken into account that on the building materials market there are compositions that are applied by spraying, and also building materials that are applied by coating.
This waterproofing forms special crystalline elements in the voids of concrete surfaces that repel any liquid, even chemical ones.
The scope of use of penetrating waterproofing is very large. This specimen is used for waterproofing foundations of all types, including belt type. And also, water tanks, basements, ground floors, and other concrete structures.
Waterproofing horizontal type, also called “cut-off”. It protects the foundation walls from air suction. And, as a rule, it is located higher than the height of moisture splashing, but not less than 30 cm above the ground surface.
Penetrating waterproofing
Waterproofing of the foundation is done already at the time of its construction. Otherwise, this work is hard and costly. It’s not easy to dig up the foundation, clean it up and treat it properly. Moreover, if it has been standing in the ground for several years and is fairly saturated with moisture. Do this, as follows from the above, only in the summer, or on another “dry” day. You need to act step by step, not in parts. For example, if you dug up a side and processed it, it won’t work that way. As a result, different degrees of strength and subsidence are formed. Waterproofing should begin, in this case, from the corners of the foundation and end with the walls.
Regarding the insulation from moisture itself, a combination of vertical and horizontal waterproofing would be an excellent solution. It is necessary to first make horizontal waterproofing, and only then apply a vertical layer.
Having dug out the foundation, the next stage begins, cleaning the foundation of the house from various dirt without using water. Use brushes, brooms and other tools, but without water. Remove residual dirt from seams and foundation recesses.
Pits, seams and recesses of concrete foundation surfaces must be filled with a special cement solution or tile (tile) glue, then treated with bitumen mastic.
Attach the roofing material using surfacing. A gas burner will help you with this again. Then, having compacted the mastic and roofing felt, apply the rolled building material to the surface of the foundation. When performing work, carefully press down all materials. The first layer must be applied horizontally. Apply each subsequent strip with an overlap in relation to the previous one.
The next layer must be applied vertically, with an overlap. Remember, compacting the roofing felt sheets perfectly helps it adhere as tightly as possible. Please also note that the corners of the building’s foundation must be wrapped with rolled building materials, but under no circumstances cut off.
When using waterproofing building materials, it is necessary to manufacture/install a drainage system to drain water, as well as fill the blind area.
- Drainage system design
The foundation is the main part of the house. The durability of the building as a whole depends on its quality. The foundation of the house is exposed to groundwater, rain and capillary water, which can cause it to sag and become deformed. Concrete is a hygroscopic material. The moisture it absorbs rises through the capillaries, penetrating the walls and floors and causing the formation of mold and mildew. When this water freezes, the foundation can collapse. In order to protect the house from destruction as a result of exposure to moisture, timely waterproofing of the foundation is necessary. If you are still thinking about whether to do waterproofing, keep in mind that repairing the foundation in the future will cost more than building a house, and there is no point in talking about the complexity and labor-intensiveness of the work.
Foundation waterproofing scheme.
This is not to say that performing such work is an easy task. Waterproofing technology requires certain skills and understanding of the processes that occur in concrete and soil and in various materials. Experience is also important, so before performing work it is necessary to consult with a specialist and follow his recommendations.
House foundation waterproofing technology
First you need to decide on the complex construction work on waterproofing. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the following factors: groundwater level, frost heaving forces, operating conditions of the house, soil heterogeneity. If the maximum groundwater level is 1 m or more below the base of the foundation, it is sufficient to carry out vertical coating waterproofing and horizontal waterproofing using roofing felt.
Main types of foundation waterproofing.
If groundwater lies close to the foundation, but does not reach the basement level, the complex of work will have to be expanded. Horizontal insulation is carried out in 2 layers, each of which must be coated with bitumen mastic. For vertical waterproofing, both gluing and coating methods are used. Depending on the budget planned for the purchase of building materials, all concrete structures can be treated with penetrating materials that stop the movement of water through the capillaries.
If groundwater lies above the base of the foundation and the basement floor, it is necessary to additionally equip a drainage system. The price for waterproofing a foundation depends on its area, quantity and type of materials used. In the simplest case, you will only have to purchase bitumen. In the most difficult case, you will have to spend money on penetrating, rolled and coating materials, as well as on arranging a drainage system.
Horizontal waterproofing of the foundation
For monolithic and strip foundations, horizontal waterproofing is carried out in 2 places: at the level of the basement floor and at the junction of the foundation with the walls.
Horizontal waterproofing can only be done during the construction phase of the building, so it needs to be taken care of in a timely manner.
To do this you will need the following materials and tools:
Horizontal waterproofing scheme.
- shovel;
- fatty clay;
- concrete;
- bitumen mastic;
- roofing felt;
- cement;
- rollers, brushes;
- adhesive mastics.
Before erecting the foundation, a layer of greasy clay 20-30 cm thick must be poured onto the bottom of the pit, which must be thoroughly compacted. After this, a 5-7 cm layer of concrete is poured. This is necessary to waterproof the foundation. Before laying the material, the concrete must dry and gain the required strength. Then the concrete is coated with bitumen mastic, on top of which roofing material is placed.
The surface is again covered with mastic and a second layer of roofing material is laid. Concrete is poured on top and ironing is done. It is also included in the complex of works on base insulation. Ironing is done like this: cement sifted through a sieve is poured on top of the concrete and leveled. After some time, the cement will become wet from the moisture contained in the concrete. Then the surface is periodically moistened with water until it gains strength.
After the strip or pile foundation is built, its surface also needs to be waterproofed to prevent moisture from rising into the walls. The surface is covered with bitumen mastic, on top of which roofing felt or any other rolled material is laid. The procedure is performed twice to obtain a two-layer waterproofing. The edges of the material are not cut, but brought down and pressed with vertical insulation.
Drainage system design
Option with waterproofing and drainage of the foundation wall.
Depending on the depth of groundwater and the type of soil, it may be necessary to install a drainage system to collect and drain atmospheric and groundwater into the well. This need mainly arises when soil permeability is poor and groundwater is high. To build a drainage system, you need to dig trenches around the perimeter of the building at a distance of about 70 cm from it. The depth depends on the groundwater level. Width - 40 cm. The trench should be located with some slope in relation to the pit and well.
Geotextiles are laid at the bottom, its edges are wrapped 90 cm over the sides of the pit. Crushed stone or gravel is poured in a layer of 5 cm along the length of the trench and perforated pipes are laid with a slope of 0.5 cm for each m. Then pre-washed gravel is poured in, everything is covered with the remaining edges geotextiles. The pipes are led into a collecting well, and the soil is backfilled. The drainage system can be installed after the house is put into operation.
Vertical waterproofing of the base of the house
Scheme of vertical waterproofing of the foundation.
For this purpose the most different materials, which can be combined. Bituminous foundation waterproofing is considered the cheapest. To do this you will need bitumen, sold in bars. 70% bitumen resin and 30% waste oil are placed in a large container. The vat needs to be warmed up by lighting a fire under it. After the bitumen has melted, it can be applied to a previously leveled surface. With a brush or roller, bitumen is applied to the surface of the base, starting from its base and ending 15-20 cm before the soil surface. Bitumen must be applied in several layers, bringing the total thickness to 3-5 cm. To prevent the bitumen from freezing in the container, it must be hot all the time.
Bitumen fills the pores in concrete, protecting it from moisture penetration. The service life of such waterproofing is 5 years, after which the coating begins to crack and collapse, allowing water to leak into the concrete. To extend the service life of waterproofing, bitumen-polymer compositions are used that do not have the disadvantages of conventional bitumen.
Pasted waterproofing of the foundation
Scheme of foundation waterproofing with roofing felt.
Roll materials can be used separately or in combination with coating materials. The most popular lining material is roofing felt. Before fixing it to the base surface, it is treated with bitumen mastic. After this, the roofing felt sheets are heated gas burner and are applied to the surface with an overlap of 20 cm. Ruberoid can be attached using adhesive mastics. Before fusing the vertical waterproofing, the edges of the horizontal waterproofing must be wrapped and pressed, fusing roofing material on top.
Ruberoid can be replaced by more modern materials based on polyester, which increases their strength, wear resistance and elasticity. But they cannot provide the required coating strength without first applying mastic, since they do not fill the pores.
Scheme of foundation waterproofing with liquid rubber.
Pasted waterproofing can be replaced with liquid rubber that has good adhesion to the surface. The surface will be seamless, which will provide high-quality protection. If the work will be done manually, “Elastomix” or “Elastopaz” - one-component rubber - will be suitable. "Elastopaz" is applied in 2 layers, each of which must dry for at least 24 hours. Sold in 18 kg containers, if the contents are not completely used up, the bucket can be hermetically sealed and the material can be stored. Elastomix is applied in one layer and is sold in 10 kg packs. If the bucket of mixture is not completely used up, it cannot be stored, as after 2 hours it will turn into rubber.
A surface coated with liquid rubber requires protection from external influences if the backfill soil contains inclusions in the form of stones or construction debris. In this case, the foundation is covered with geotextiles and a pressure wall is installed.
Penetrating foundation waterproofing
Scheme of penetrating waterproofing of the foundation.
Penetrating materials are materials whose substances penetrate into the structure of concrete and crystallize inside. Hydrophobic crystals protect concrete from water penetrating into its structure and rising through capillaries. This prevents the destruction of concrete and increases its frost resistance. Materials such as “Hydrotex” and “Aquatron” are penetrating waterproofing; most often they are used to treat the internal surfaces of a plinth or basement. It is better to apply penetrating materials to wet concrete. To do this, the surface must be cleaned of dust and thoroughly moistened. The material is applied in several layers. Once absorbed, the outer layer can be removed.
To waterproof and level the vertical surfaces of the foundation, you can use plaster mixtures with moisture-resistant components. The foundation is plastered in the same way as the walls on the lighthouses. To prevent cracks from appearing, the plaster must be applied hot. After drying, the plaster layer must be protected with a clay castle.
The clay castle does not allow pressure water to reach the foundation. To do this, a trench is dug along the perimeter of the foundation at a distance of 0.6 m, and crushed stone is poured into the bottom. The walls and bottom of the trench are covered with greasy clay. The remaining space can be filled with clay or gravel, and a blind area can be made on top. During spring floods, clay does not allow water to pass to the base, but excess moisture goes through a layer of gravel.
Foundation waterproofing: work technology
Foundation waterproofing begins with horizontal insulation. It can be done using bitumen, roofing felt, liquid rubber and other materials. They are also used for vertical insulation.
The construction of the foundation is the first and most critical stage in the construction of any building, therefore each phase of its construction is of great importance. And if no one will argue with the fact that it is impossible to save on strengthening the foundation, then on the issue of its waterproofing, opinions are not so clear. Some people mistakenly believe that waterproofing the foundation is more desirable than mandatory. This is wrong. The lack of water protection can have an extremely negative impact on the strength of the foundation. About what types of waterproofing are used for various types foundation and how to do it correctly with your own hands, we will tell you in this article.
Why do you need water protection for your foundation?
Before we look at the different types of waterproofing, it is important to understand why it is so necessary.
The foundation is exposed to moisture on all sides: from inside it is moistened by soil and wastewater, and from the outside - precipitation and melting snow.
The main material from which the foundation is made, namely concrete, itself is not afraid of moisture. But it is not a waterproofing material either, therefore, moisture can get both inside the concrete and seep through it.
This is fraught with two unpleasant consequences: firstly, under the influence of moisture, the reinforcement inside the concrete can corrode and rust, which will lead to weakening of the entire structure. Secondly, moisture, penetrating through the foundation into the structure, can become fertile ground for the formation of various fungi and microorganisms.
It is these two problems that foundation waterproofing is designed to solve.
High-quality waterproofing of the foundation is the key to the reliability and durability of the building
General rules
To install high-quality waterproofing, you need to know not only the basic requirements for its installation, but also the features of each specific site where construction is being carried out.
- The foundation must be reliably protected from groundwater. If their level is higher than the foundation level, then in addition to waterproofing it is necessary to build a drainage system.
- The function of protecting the foundation from external moisture is performed by the blind area.
- When installing waterproofing, it is necessary to take into account the composition of local groundwater.
For example, if so-called aggressive water is detected at a construction site, it will be necessary to use appropriate materials for waterproofing.
- You should take care not only of the foundation itself, but also of the walls in the basement and on the ground floor.
Features in the process of building a house
The most correct solution would be to install waterproofing during the construction of the foundation.
In this case, it becomes possible to protect the foundation strip not only on the sides and top, but also from below, which will be almost impossible after the foundation has already been laid.
The main feature of foundation waterproofing during construction is the construction of a lower waterproofing layer, which takes the “main blow” when protecting the structure from groundwater.
There are several technologies for creating lower waterproofing - a cushion of sand and crushed stone and a direct layer of insulating material.
The structure of the waterproofing cushion resembles a layer cake
As for the processing of the walls and the upper part of the foundation, any of the technologies that we will talk about can be used during construction.
Waterproofing the finished foundation
If waterproofing work was not carried out during the laying of the foundation, this significantly complicates the task and does not make it possible to protect the structure in full.
Waterproofing a finished foundation begins with preparing a trench around the entire perimeter. If this is not done, only the outer part of the tape can be processed, which will significantly reduce the protective properties of the structure.
Without first excavating a trench, waterproofing a finished foundation is almost impossible
The depth of the trench must be at least 50 centimeters, otherwise waterproofing the grounded part of the foundation will be ineffective.
The foundation surface is checked for chips and cracks. If found, they should be sealed with a solution, after which a layer of plaster should be applied over the entire surface of the foundation. When the plaster has dried, the selected waterproofing material is applied to it. And after the waterproofing layer has dried, the trench is buried and a blind area is built on top of it.
Kinds
Based on its purpose, foundation waterproofing is divided into two types: anti-filtration and anti-corrosion.
Anti-filtration
Anti-filtration waterproofing is used where there are “aggressive” waters or the level of groundwater pressure on the foundation strip is quite high. To install this type of waterproofing, it is necessary to carefully study the soil characteristics and the composition of groundwater. In addition, such insulation requires complex design, so it is better to invite specialists specializing in this type of work to install it.
Anti-corrosion
Anti-corrosion waterproofing is the most common type of foundation water protection
Anti-corrosion waterproofing is the most common type of moisture protection, which can be easily done with your own hands. Such waterproofing can be applied different ways: pasting, painting, impregnation and other methods.
Depending on the type of location, there are two types of anti-corrosion waterproofing: horizontal and vertical.
Horizontal
Horizontal waterproofing serves as protection against moisture penetration into the building itself
Designed to protect foundation walls from capillary absorption. As a rule, two horizontal insulation systems, independent of each other, are created: the first under the basement floor and the second on top of the foundation slabs at the main support points.
Vertical
The main task of vertical waterproofing is to protect the foundation from groundwater
It is located from the base of the foundation to the level of splashing rainwater. The method of application and thickness of such waterproofing are determined before the construction of the foundation begins.
Water-repellent materials
Modern foundation waterproofing can be done using various materials.
Let's look at the most popular of them.
Bituminous mastic or, as it is also called, bitumen resin, is the most common and cheapest material for waterproofing. The technology for applying mastic is classified as a coating method for waterproofing. 7 parts of resin and 3 parts of used machine oil are placed in a large metal container. Light a fire under the container and heat the mixture until a homogeneous mass is formed. After this, using a brush or roller, the solution is applied to the surface of the foundation.
The method of applying bitumen mastic is practically no different from conventional painting.
Please note that hot resin can cause serious burns! When working, be sure to follow safety regulations!
Hot mastic not only covers the foundation from above, but also penetrates into the pores of the concrete, providing a fairly good level of protection from moisture.
Roll materials
Several types of materials fall into this category. All of them are a base that can be rolled up (hence the name), with a waterproofing layer applied to it. Rolled materials can be used either independently or in combination with other water-repellent agents.
The most common of the rolled materials is roofing felt. It is quite convenient to use and has a relatively low cost. To attach roofing felt to the foundation walls, just heat it up and apply it to the surface of the tape.
The most reliable way to lay roofing felt is fusing
Rolled materials also include rubitex, technoelast, stekloizol, hydrostekloizol and others. Unlike roofing felt, which is based on construction cardboard, these materials are made on the basis of polyester, which significantly improves their quality, but at the same time makes it more expensive.
This material is very easy to apply to any surface using a roller or brush. It has excellent water-repellent properties and, importantly, is completely non-flammable. Besides, liquid rubber allows you to make the waterproofing layer seamless, which undoubtedly improves the characteristics of the coating.
Liquid rubber is applied using a spray bottle
Plaster and screen insulation
Such compositions allow you to simultaneously level the surface and make it moisture resistant. The principle of working with plaster waterproofing is practically no different from the process of applying conventional plaster.
Applying plaster waterproofing is practically no different from applying conventional plaster
The only difference is that the screen insulation includes water-repellent components such as hydroconcrete, polymer concrete and asphalt mastics.
A modern waterproofing material that can be classified as a roll material. True, unlike them, the mats on both sides have a base made of polypropylene geotextile material. Between the layers of the base there is a layer of special granules. When in contact with water, the granules swell, forming a dense water-repellent gel.
Between the two protective layers are granules that, after contact with water, turn into a water-repellent gel
Photo gallery: materials for waterproofing
Foundation with finished waterproofing made of bentonite mats 
One of the most common materials for waterproofing is bitumen mastic. 
Liquid rubber is sold in the same cans as bitumen mastic
After application, liquid rubber forms a continuous waterproof layer 
Roll waterproofing polyester based 
A universal material suitable for both horizontal and vertical waterproofing 
One of the most reliable and durable types of waterproofing is bentonite mats. 
Plaster waterproofing can be applied either with a spatula or with a regular brush.
Comparison of materials
To make it easier for you to compare all the “pros” and “cons” of various materials, we have combined them into a table.
Table “Characteristics of materials for waterproofing”
| Material | Advantages | Flaws | Price |
Suitable for any type of foundation. Possibility to completely apply waterproofing alone. | The coating lasts no more than five years. | One of the cheapest waterproofing options. | |
| Roll waterproofing | A universal material suitable for both horizontal and vertical waterproofing. | Necessity preliminary preparation surfaces. | Wide price range - from low (roofing felt) to high (technoelast, stekloizol). |
| Reliable waterproofing material with a long service life. | Quite a complex application technology. The need for preparatory work. | Average price category. | |
| Plaster insulation | Possibility to avoid surface preparation. | The need to use an additional layer of waterproofing. | Average category, but due to savings on preparatory work may be classified as low. |
| One of the most reliable and durable materials. | Hardly ever. | High price category. |
Do-it-yourself waterproofing of various types of foundations
Monolithic (slab) foundation
Monolithic foundation with finished vertical waterproofing made using the coating method
Monolithic construction in last years is becoming the most popular, so we will begin to consider waterproofing technologies with a monolithic foundation. Since the method of water protection for this foundation is practically no different from protecting a slab foundation, we will combine them into one section. The only difference is that components can be added to the monolithic foundation at the pouring stage to increase its water-repellent properties.
Waterproofing a monolithic foundation begins with a “pillow”. Which is usually made from bulk material(sand, gravel or crushed stone), covered with a water-repellent layer. The walls and top of the foundation can be protected with either rolled or coating waterproofing material.
It is more preferable to use a coating material, since it, penetrating into the pores of concrete, provides a higher level of protection of the foundation from moisture.
If waterproofing is carried out with roll materials, then they must be laid in at least two layers, with a seam overlap of 10-15 centimeters.
When waterproofing a prefabricated foundation Special attention should be given to joints and seams
Moisture protection of strip foundations has a number of features. It can also be performed using both coating and roll materials. At the same time, do not forget about waterproofing the ends of the slabs, and also that before applying the waterproofing material, it is necessary to carefully seal all the joints between the slabs and the recesses and irregularities that appeared during installation.
Sealing of seams is mandatory in all cases, except those when plaster waterproofing is used as the first water-repellent layer.
Columnar foundation
In this case, the coating method of waterproofing was used
It is a series of supports located at the corners of the walls of the building, as well as at their intersection points.
Waterproofing a columnar foundation is a rather complex process. For this purpose, it is best to use a combined bulk and coating type waterproofing. That is, during pouring, special water-repellent mixtures should be poured into the foundation formwork, and after hardening, the surface of the piles should be treated with coating mastic.
When choosing a mastic, you should give preference to a material with a penetrating effect.
Video: installation and waterproofing of a columnar foundation
When waterproofing the foundation of a bathhouse, special attention is paid to the horizontal layer
Waterproofing the foundation of a bathhouse requires a special approach. Firstly, when laying it, it is advisable to lay at least three layers of roofing felt or other rolled material, and secondly, do not forget about high-quality waterproofing of the lower log of the log house. For this purpose, you can use special mastics and antiseptics, but they must be applied at least twice as thick as when building an ordinary wooden house.
Waterproofing the foundation is a rather complex and expensive process. But in no case should you save on it, since in this case you risk not only getting an “unhealthy” atmosphere in your home, but also jeopardizing its reliability. Good luck with your renovation!
Born in 1977 in Donetsk, Ukraine. Graduated from the Donetsk Polytechnic Institute (now Donetsk State Technical University) with a degree in Automated systems management. Worked at the Donetsk Metallurgical Plant. In 1997 he moved to Moscow, where for 8 years he worked in several construction teams.
The foundation is the part of the structure of any structure that experiences the maximum load. The durability of the building primarily depends on its reliability. If it begins to collapse, this will inevitably lead to deformation of all other elements.
Therefore, increased requirements are placed on foundation waterproofing. This is especially true for private homes, since almost every owner actively uses ground floor(basement). It is necessary to take into account that this kind of work is carried out comprehensively, and protection from moisture is arranged “universally”. After all, it affects the foundation in different ways, and often simultaneously. In the form of groundwater, precipitation, during snow melting, and river floods.
In some sources you can find opinions that in some cases the waterproofing of the foundation can be neglected. Such statements are “short-sighted.” Any house is built to last for decades. Where is the guarantee that after some time, for example, some significant construction will not begin nearby? But this is - soil movements, which will inevitably affect the location of underground water layers.
Even the construction of a highway with its inevitable asphalting has such an impact. There are many others possible reasons changes in the configuration and water level in the ground. It is also necessary to take into account that throughout the year the depth of its occurrence is constantly changing. And many experts are already openly talking about irreversible climate changes on the planet. It is clear that waterproofing the foundation again for an already built and inhabited house (and this inevitably entails partial “destruction” of the adjacent territory) is an extremely complex and expensive issue. Yes, and it will take a lot of time.
Things to consider
- At what depth are the subsoil layers located? This must be determined if the house design includes a basement.
- Subsurface fluid pressure. According to this criterion, the layers are divided into 4 types. Moreover, in the same place you can simultaneously encounter, for example, both “suspended” waters and “pressure” ones. That is why experts advise not to do “like everyone else” when building a house, but to conduct a geodetic survey of a specific site.
- Foundation waterproofing largely depends on soil characteristics, on which the structure is being erected. After all, there are soils that are both permeable (for example, sandstone) and not. In the latter case, the liquid looks for “easier” paths and often moves towards the foundation. Therefore, the waterproofing layer must be more “powerful”. Accordingly, the choice of materials is made taking into account these specifics. In addition, any liquid may contain aggressive components.
- Foundation type. Each has its own characteristics, both in the nature of the work and in the materials. It is clear that if the foundation is piled, then the use of rolled “insulators” is excluded. At the same time, they are perfect for the tape type.
- Regardless of the construction conditions, foundation waterproofing is done both from the outside and from the inside. Moreover, both layers are basic, and it is unacceptable to equip only one.
It should be noted that components complex waterproofing of the foundation includes such measures as removal of excess water (drainage) and the installation of a reliable blind area, which serves to protect the foundation of the house from water in the form of precipitation (rain, snow). And, of course, the optimal choice of the type of insulating materials used, as already mentioned.
IN individual construction The most commonly used type of building foundation is the strip type. However, it is not suitable for swampy soil. Such soil is unstable because it is saturated with moisture and its structure is heterogeneous. Underground water layers come quite close to the surface, and produce necessary calculations loads is extremely difficult. Construction under such conditions is considered risky. But sometimes there is simply no choice.
It is worth noting right away that waterproofing a foundation in marshy areas is expensive. The method of protecting the foundation depends on what type of foundation is chosen for the construction of the house. In practice, shallow, pile (bored) or slab foundations. But regardless of this, it is imperative that drainage system.
Its purpose is to drain water in the ground away from the building. Without this natural drainage of the area any other measures to protect against moisture cannot be considered effective. Experts recommend installing the foundation only after drainage has been organized. It is necessary to understand that waterproofing the foundation in swampy areas has a number of features. And first of all, this concerns the issue of laying the foundation.
Processing shallow-depth is not much different from the method of finishing strip. However, to protect the insulating layer, it is necessary to install a protective covering (wall).
For a slab pit, the pit is made shallow. Its bottom should be compacted as tightly as possible. If possible, it is advisable to use construction equipment (skating rink). The goal is to minimize subsequent soil shrinkage. Coarse sand and gravel are used as backfill. If possible, clay should also be laid. This layer is filled with concrete mortar.
The resulting “pillow” will become natural barrier in the path of liquids, an integral part of foundation waterproofing in marshy areas. Considering difficult conditions, it is advisable to use waterproof reinforced concrete slabs under the foundation of the house. Treatment can also be carried out at the construction site. To do this, they are impregnated with special water-repellent compounds. Additionally, all sides are treated with mastic, on a layer of which roll material (roofing felt, roofing felt, film) is applied.
In particularly difficult cases, a bored foundation is made. Its construction involves the installation of concrete supports in prepared wells. For this, formwork is made. It is at this stage that all activities are carried out. In this case, waterproofing the foundation in swampy areas means special treatment asbestos-cement (or other waterproof) pipes serving as formwork. Methods such as impregnation and surface treatment with mastics are suitable.
Such insulation is not afraid of mechanical loads, since the “shape” of the formwork is supported by the concrete pouring and the reinforcement bars used. In addition, sealing the lower parts of the pipes is recommended. However, it is possible to increase the effectiveness of foundation waterproofing in swampy areas by carrying out a number of additional measures.
Firstly, right choice composition concrete mortar(grade of cement + chemical additives to increase moisture resistance). However, this issue requires a professional approach.
Secondly, additional treatment of the well bottom. Backfilling is done with sand, clay, gravel.
We should not forget that an integral part of such work is the installation of horizontal waterproofing. Regardless of the type of foundation.
Do-it-yourself waterproofing of a strip foundation
This type of “base” of a structure is most often used in individual construction, since it is easy to install independently. Secondly, such a foundation presupposes the presence of a basement in the house, which is important for a private developer. Thirdly, it is able to withstand a fairly large load and can be used on any type of soil.
The fact that any structure needs protection from moisture is clear to everyone. Especially its lower part, which is in direct contact with the soil. can be produced in any way, using various materials. Choice optimal option is largely determined by the material capabilities of the owner. Let's consider the most economical one.
The presence of a basement places increased demands on the quality of events. When determining a particular type of work, one should focus on the climatic conditions in the region (precipitation intensity), soil characteristics and the depth of underground aquifers.
Waterproofing a strip foundation is a set of measures. It includes work such as protecting its sole, the outer part, as well as the floor and walls of the basement from the inside. You need to start building a house with the proper arrangement of the foundation pit. It is advisable to lay out its bottom with a layer of clay and compact and level it thoroughly. It will create a kind of barrier to the path of liquids coming from the ground. Rolled material (roofing felt, film) should be placed under the base of the foundation.
The outside walls should be more securely protected. After all, they are influenced groundwater pressure, seasonal soil displacements. Consequently, mechanical damage to the waterproofing of the strip foundation is likely. Therefore, it is made in several layers. First, mastic (bitumen) is coated, after which roll material (roofing felt, film) is glued. Installation is carried out so that there are no breaks or gaps in the protective layer (overlapping).
This layer also needs to be protected. Indeed, in addition to the reasons already indicated, it can be damaged by construction waste and stones at the time of filling the trench. Protection can be provided in different ways: construction of a brick wall, laying insulating material. To waterproof a strip foundation, you can also use the plastering method. This coating does not require additional protection.
When processing internal surfaces, the same methods are used. The choice of materials depends on the further design of the basement. We should not forget about the places of entry into the building of various engineering communications(pipes, cables). The inlet channels are carefully sealed, for which it is convenient to use mastics and liquid glass.
Ideally, the protective layer is continuous. Essentially, it is a “bag” that protects the house from water penetration.
Waterproofing of strip foundations must be accompanied by additional measures to forced drainage of the site developments. For this purpose, a drainage system is installed to remove moisture from the base of the building. It consists of specially equipped channels that are installed around the entire perimeter of the building. In addition, it is necessary to correctly arrange a spillway. In some cases, it is advisable to use it to drain the area. drainage wells.
And we should not forget about the importance of the blind area. Properly and efficiently constructed, it will significantly reduce the influence of water on the underground part of the structure.
Operating principle of penetrating waterproofing
The best way to provide reliable protection protecting the concrete foundation of a house from the destructive effects of moisture is penetrating waterproofing of the foundation. In order to correctly assess the scope of work, it is necessary to first analyze the level and volume of groundwater, the degree of its impact on the underground structures of the building. In addition, the amount of work on waterproofing is influenced by the presence or absence of basements in the house. If the house does not have a basement, horizontal waterproofing of the foundation will help protect against moisture; if there is a basement, the best option There will be a combination of vertical and horizontal protection and a drainage system.
Before you start working, you need to mix the dry ingredients with water and stir well. The resulting solution should be used to treat the concrete surfaces of the base. Once in the pores of concrete, the active substances contained in the penetrating waterproofing of the foundation react, forming water-insoluble crystals. The crystals gradually displace water from the concrete and reliably clog capillaries, pores and microcracks. Crystal growth occurs simultaneously in all directions - both in the direction of the water flow and in the opposite direction. As a result of treatment with penetrating compounds, the concrete surface acquires a more compacted structure and becomes impermeable to moisture. As soon as the humidity level decreases, crystal growth slows down; when water is exposed to the surface, growth resumes.
Penetrating waterproofing of the foundation ensures the advancement of chemically active components into the thickness of concrete by tens of centimeters. When filling microcracks and capillaries with a diameter of up to 0.4 mm, the water resistance of the concrete base increases by 2-4 steps. As a result, the penetrating waterproofing of the foundation becomes an integral part of the foundation, forming waterproof concrete.
Application technology
Before starting to treat the foundation with penetrating compounds, the surface should be cleaned of dust, dirt, debris, oil stains, etc. Open capillaries on polished concrete surface You can treat it with a sandblasting tool and wash it with a solution of hydrochloric acid in a ratio of 1:10. If you find traces of mold on the surface of the base of the house, thoroughly clean it and treat it with an antiseptic composition. In places where materials meet, grooves are punched, the depth of which should be 2.5 cm. If there are cracks on the surface, they should be widened by 25 mm in depth and 20 mm in width. Where communications pass through, the junction points should be sealed.
Next important stage– concrete moistening. The growth of crystals will depend on how well the surface is moistened.
Penetrating type foundation waterproofing is carried out using a spatula, spray gun or brush.
Advantages of using waterproof penetrating compounds:
- the ability to process both underground and above-ground parts of the building;
- ease of use,
- possibility of processing freshly poured and old concrete,
- the penetrating composition forms a single whole with the foundation, therefore it is not afraid of mechanical damage and does not peel off,
- Possibility of use for processing external and internal walls,
- working with wet foundations,
- surface treatment regardless of the direction of groundwater pressure.
Penetrating foundation waterproofing is not used on foundations made of foam and aerated concrete due to the significant pore size.
Coating protection for foundations
The cost of constructing a foundation is on average 15% of the total cost of the structure, and coating the foundation waterproofing is only 1-2%. However, poor quality waterproofing or its complete absence may lead to the investment of much larger sums in the future.
Despite the fact that, due to their excellent load-bearing capacity and affordability, the popularity of block foundations is growing, from the point of view of waterproofing, a monolithic foundation is more profitable. It does not require additional sealing of joining seams. Coating waterproofing of the foundation creates protective film, which prevents moisture from entering and destroying the thickness of the foundation.
Waterproofing the foundation of a house of the coating type can be single- or multi-layered and have a thickness of up to several centimeters. With its help, you can reliably protect the structure from the action of groundwater. If you apply the composition to inner surface walls, it will also prevent penetration capillary moisture.
Materials for coating waterproofing
These can be either cement-based compositions or bituminous materials. The most popular are bitumen, bitumen-polymer and bitumen-rubber mixtures.
Mastic for waterproofing the foundation should take into account factors such as:
- budget for work to protect the building from moisture;
- ambient temperature;
- possible loads on the treated surfaces during operation;
- place of implementation - coating waterproofing of the foundation is carried out on the external or internal planes of the foundation;
- area of processed surface, etc.
Having decided on these points, you can choose the right material and even save money without sacrificing quality.
The most ancient and cost-effective method of waterproofing is the use of hot bitumen. In this case, a prerequisite is the use of heating equipment, with the help of which the mastic acquires a liquid consistency. You can work with hot bitumen even when negative temperatures.
It is also possible to use bitumen compositions based on organic solvents. Today this is one of the most common methods of foundation waterproofing. Depending on the budget of the event, you can choose either simple bitumen mastic or bitumen compositions containing polymer and latex additives. They give the waterproofing material elasticity, expand the temperature range of application, and increase adhesion. Bitumen waterproofing cold foundation can also be carried out at sub-zero air temperatures.
Mastics on organic solvents It is not recommended to be used for internal waterproofing of walls of basements and cellars, as this may not be safe. In such cases, it is better to give preference to water-based formulations. The only disadvantage of using these materials is the reduction in temperature range. They cannot be used at temperatures below +5°C.
If large areas are to be waterproofed, optimal choice there will be liquid rubber (bitumen-latex emulsions).
Stages of implementation waterproofing works bitumen compounds:
- surface preparation (cleaning from dust, corrosion, oil, salt and other stains; filling cracks with cement-sand mortar);
- priming the foundation with more liquid waterproofing compounds;
- applying coating waterproofing in 2-4 layers;
- surface drying;
- backfilling soil or carrying out decorative finishing.
Technology for applying cement-polymer coating waterproofing:
- cleaning and moistening the foundation surface;
- mixing the components of the waterproofing composition until homogeneous;
- applying the mixture in several passes. The time interval between application of layers is 12 hours or more.
- carrying out measures to protect waterproofing from precipitation over the next 24 hours.
Foundation waterproofing should be taken with full responsibility. Its durability and strength depend on how thoroughly the foundation of the house is protected from moisture.
What is horizontal waterproofing
If you refuse to waterproof the foundation, you risk facing the problem of dampness and mold in the house in the near future. Moreover, moisture will not only threaten the integrity and appearance decoration of premises, furniture, but can also cause destruction of the foundation. The result will be subsidence of the house, distortion of windows and door designs, the appearance of cracks in load-bearing walls.
Vertical and horizontal waterproofing of the foundation will help you prevent all these troubles.
Let's take a closer look at the second type. Such protection of the building’s foundation from moisture involves fewer measures, is easier to implement and is more affordable in economic terms than waterproofing the foundation vertical type. When laying the foundation of a house, experts recommend using a combination of these two types. If the house does not have basements, only horizontal waterproofing of the foundation can be used.
However, if gross violations were committed during horizontal protection against moisture, correcting them will be very expensive or even impossible.
As waterproofing materials can be used: roofing felt, hydrostekloizol, Rubitex, glass elast, stekloizol, hydrostekloizol, profikorm and other self-adhesive and sprayed types of waterproofing.
Roll foundation waterproofing in the absence of a basement is carried out in several layers (2 or more) slightly above the blind area of the house along the foundation. When choosing an insulating material, give preference to one that is not susceptible to rotting. Modern rolled materials have increased resistance to ruptures, the risk of which arises when the base of the structure is deformed.
Coating horizontal waterproofing of the foundation is made using bitumen and rubbers. Bitumen-containing materials may also contain cement, which increases adhesion to the base, and plasticizing additives, which help increase the foundation’s resistance to cracking under dynamic and static loads. Polymer compositions make it possible to achieve high hydrophobic properties and durability of the material.
Impregnating horizontal foundation waterproofing has a penetrating effect and is capable of blocking capillary channels in concrete bases, forming threadlike crystals in them. The only drawback of using this type of waterproofing is its low ductility, which makes it possible for the waterproofing layer to be destroyed during significant vibrations.
The installation of installed waterproofing involves the use of mats made of bentonite clay. The mats consist of compacted clay and self-destructive layers of cardboard and geotextiles. This type of hydrobarrier will reliably protect the house from capillary and pressure moisture.
Correcting installation errors of horizontal waterproofing
In the case when the foundation was not insulated from moisture on time, there are 3 ways to carry it out “late”:
- trimming walls with further laying of bitumen mass or roofing felt in the resulting holes;
- raising the foundation and laying a bitumen layer or roofing material;
- thermal injection or crystal injection.
The first two options will require a significant investment of effort and time, but will be cheaper than injection. Crystal injection involves creating holes at the junction of the base and walls, into which a mixture of silicate activators, water and cement is subsequently poured. As a result of the reaction, a mineral mass is formed, which acts as a water barrier. Thermal injection involves pumping hot air into the hole, while the walls are heated to a temperature of 30-40°C.
Choice of the most suitable method Foundation waterproofing primarily depends on the size of the budget and the time frame for the operation.
Bituminous foundation waterproofing
Not only precipitation flows, but also groundwater have a negative impact on the foundation of a house. Effective protection buildings can be provided by bitumen waterproofing of the foundation, as well as comprehensive drainage system. Drainage allows excess water to be removed from the building, and a water barrier will prevent moisture from entering the supporting structure, basements, cellar If the groundwater in the area is high and the soil filtration coefficient is low, it is recommended to use a combination of the above measures.
Bitumen waterproofing of the foundation is one of the cheapest methods of coating protection. It is produced using mixtures that include organic and inorganic substances, high molecular weight carbon-containing components. Bituminous materials are durable, elastic, have high waterproofing properties and are affordable. They are used for processing brickwork, concrete, plastered surfaces, etc. Bitumen waterproofing of the foundation can withstand temperature changes and the aggressive effects of groundwater. Bitumen mixtures are endowed with frost resistance and fire-resistant properties special additives – modifiers. Every year, coating waterproofing of foundations, blind areas, and roofs is becoming more and more popular. Moreover, when choosing materials, home owners increasingly prefer bitumen-polymer and bitumen-rubber mastics. They are known for their durability, while completely devoid of the disadvantages of pure bitumen. Bitumen compounds are applied using a spatula, roller, trowel or sprayer.
Bitumen waterproofing - hot application technology:
On preparatory stage held cleaning the foundation surface from dust and dirt using metal brush. Potholes and holes in the base are plastered and a layer of primer is applied. After 1-2 hours the mastic itself is applied. The composition should first be heated in a steam or water bath. During heating, the mastic should be stirred continuously. When applying the composition, carefully ensure that there are no unpainted areas left. After the first layer has dried, it is recommended to apply another layer. The thickness of each of them should be no more than 1 cm. Bitumen waterproofing of the foundation helps reliably protect underground parts of the building from the destructive effects of water.
Cold method of bitumen waterproofing
Cold mastics do not require preheating. Bitumen-polymer and bitumen-rubber mastics require careful preparation of the base. The foundation surface must be clean, dry and free of grease. If we are talking about liquid rubber, it is better to round and trim the edges of the foundation. Waterproofing the foundation of a house using bitumen-latex and bitumen-emulsion mastics is less demanding on the quality of foundation preparation. Bitumen-polymer mastics should be applied in two or more layers. Each subsequent layer of material should be applied only after the previous one has hardened. If you ignore this requirement, there will be a risk of insulation peeling, and the adhesion of the mastic layer to the foundation surface will not be fully ensured. If the treated surface stopped sticking, we can assume that the waterproofing has dried completely.
For many years, bitumen waterproofing of the foundation has been one of the most common and affordable methods of protecting a structure from the penetration of capillary moisture. If your site has a hydrostatic head of up to 2 m, you can use bitumen mastics; if the pressure is 5 m or higher, give preference to bitumen-polymer compositions.
Rolled foundation waterproofing
Often, houses are built in areas with high groundwater levels. If this situation is familiar, and the groundwater level is at the level of the basement floor, roll foundation waterproofing will help you. With its help, you can reliably protect the structure from the destructive effects of moisture and prevent flooding of basements and cellars.
The advent of waterproof mastics formed the basis for the production of film and roll materials, the use of which greatly simplifies the process of insulating the foundation of a house from moisture and significantly reduces the time of the procedure.
Modern foundation waterproofing roll or as it is also called pasting and the use of soft sheet bitumen, polymer and polymer-bitumen materials helps prevent moisture from seeping into the room. The number of insulation layers is determined by the magnitude of the hydrostatic head and the requirements for dryness of the structure. As a rule, roll waterproofing of foundations is carried out in two layers and is placed on the hydrostatic pressure side.
If there is insignificant groundwater pressure in your area, expansion joints structures can be covered with waterproofing layers; if the gyrostatic pressure is large, use compensators, inert to the action of the aquatic environment, in some cases can be used metal sheets. In conditions where there is a highly aggressive water environment on the site, the foundation waterproofing device must use inert materials, and under the base of the house it is necessary to arrange crushed stone filling and fill it with hot bitumen solution.
Considering the fact that waterproofing the foundation with roll materials has increased requirements for strength and durability, material manufacturers modify waterproofing products using special additives of active polypropylene and styrene-butadiene-styrene. This helps to increase the resistance of materials to microorganisms, increase elasticity, strength and durability. Great examples modern waterproofing materials are stekloizol, hydrostekloizol, hydroizol, stekloelast etc.
The most modern today is roll foundation waterproofing using polymers- films made of polyvinyl chloride, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, thermoplastic membranes, vulcanized rubber membranes, films made of chlorinated polyethylene, self-adhesive polyethylene films. All of them have a high degree of waterproofing, strength, and durability. However, a low degree of vapor permeability can cause them to tear off from the base under the influence of steam. Therefore, when laying these materials, special primers are used or a ventilation layer is created. Anti-condensation and vapor-permeable propylene and polyethylene membranes, which are gaining popularity every year, are completely free of this drawback.
Waterproofing with cement
Work on waterproofing any structures is carried out without fail, regardless of what it is this design and what is its purpose. About the negative impact of moisture on any construction and Decoration Materials has been known for a long time. It should also be taken into account that aggressive chemicals are also present in dissolved form in water. The correct choice of insulating material and work technology plays a decisive role in ensuring high-quality protection against liquids.
As experts note, cement waterproofing is becoming increasingly popular. However, it is often mistaken for simple plastering of surfaces with specially prepared products. In fact, this is a more comprehensive concept. This name refers to any composition that contains cement and is used to treat surfaces to protect them from liquids. At the same time, depending on the purpose of the product, cement plays an appropriate role in it.
For the construction of cement waterproofing, compounds are used that are sold in the form of dry mixtures. There are two types of them. One group is a mixture of sand and cement, which contains a variety of additives. It is the percentage of all components that determines the specific characteristics of the composition. Such products are used on surfaces that have sufficient rigidity and strength.
You need to understand that when cement and sand harden a coating layer is formed, which does not differ in elasticity and tensile strength. The use of such materials has its limitations. For example, they are not recommended for areas where there is a high level of seismic hazard. After all, any movement of the soil during shocks will inevitably lead to cracking of the protective layer.
Another group of materials for cement waterproofing differs from those described above in that they contain additives polymers. These formulations are different best characteristics. Their main advantage is that they are elastic. Even if a crack appears on the surface treated with them, the insulation layer will remain continuous, thereby ensuring reliable sealing. Such compositions have increased resistance to low temperatures and aggressive environments.
In any area, under the surface of the earth there are, as a rule, several layers of water. They have different configurations and characteristics. In particular, pressure. Cement waterproofing in this sense is universal. It can be used for both internal and external exterior finishing surfaces. Possessing high vapor permeability, it is excellent for arranging a foundation, as it provides protection not only under pressure, but also “pull-off”.
It is most advisable to use this type of insulation for finishing elements various designs located underground. For example, foundations sewer septic tanks, tanks, swimming pools, pipeline sections, wells and much more. Such compositions are also used for furnishing premises. with excess humidity(for example, saunas and baths, baths and showers, laundries).
It remains to add that it is recommended to process an area of no more than 100 m2 manually. To finish larger surfaces, special “cement” guns are used. At the same time, it must be remembered that better quality This results in a layer laid on a damp surface.
As already indicated, mixtures are different. When choosing, be sure to read the instructions for use.
The foundation is the foundation of any building or structure. It, like any building structure, needs protection. Waterproofing a strip foundation is a set of works that protects the foundation from the negative effects of a humid environment. Let's look at the most common types of waterproofing, as well as how and what to make it from.
Waterproofing any type of foundation is essential technological process performance of work, which protects the foundation from the negative effects of moisture. This work comes in two types:
- Vertical waterproofing - protection of the walls of the foundation itself.
- Horizontal waterproofing - insulation of one building material from another, having different coefficients of water resistance.
The drainage system also refers to horizontal waterproofing, but this is a separate type of construction work, so we’ll talk about it later.
Waterproofing a strip foundation can be done in several ways, some of which can be done independently, without involving additional labor. And some - only industrially, using specialized equipment.
Let's consider all types of waterproofing devices in order.
Bitumen coating
The cheapest, fastest and most common method consists of completely treating the foundation walls with special bitumen mastic. Thanks to its properties, mastic fills all microcracks and chips, preventing moisture from penetrating into the body of the foundation.
Bitumen coating waterproofing, as a building material, can be one-component (an ordinary bitumen block, requires heating), or sold in buckets, with special additives (the liquid state is obtained by chemical reaction, when mixing).
Waterproofing strip foundations in this way is done by applying the composition to the treated surface with brushes. Before starting work, the surface must be dusted and dirt removed using brushes.
Advantages:
- does not require special skills;
- speed of work;
- cheapness.
Flaws:
- re-treatment of surfaces after 5-7 years;
- when processing in multiple layers, it requires a long drying time for the previous layer;
- possibility of damage to the layer when backfilling the foundation.
The use of rolled building materials can serve as both a separate type of construction work and additional protection the method described above.
Waterproofing the foundation with rolled materials is carried out using the following technology - on a mastic-coated surface, cut to size (with a small margin) sheets of rolled building material are applied. The work is done from top to bottom.
Before installation, the cut sheets must be rolled, leaving the top edge for heating. Using a burner (flute), the edge of the roofing material is heated and glued to the surface of the foundation. Next, gradually unwinding the roll and heating it, glue the entire sheet, smoothing it from the center to the edges. The next sheet is glued with an overlap of 7 - 15 cm onto the previously installed sheet.
When gluing two or more layers, the rule of dressing building materials is observed - the seam (joint) of each subsequent layer should be 20-40 cm from the seam (joint) of the bottom of the underlying layer.
All corners of the foundation are additionally armored with strips of the same rolled material, the sides of which extend 20-30 cm on each side of the corner.
Waterproofing a strip foundation in this way requires the use of an open flame, and therefore requires compliance with safety precautions: the use of a special burner, a proven propane gas cylinder, the use of personal protective equipment (goggles, overalls, gloves and shoes).
Advantages:
- durability, up to 60 years;
- availability;
- easy maintainability;
- cheapness.
Flaws:
- not performed individually (requires a team of 2 - 3 people);
- working with open flame.
The plaster mixture, which contains hydroresistant substances and components, must be diluted strictly according to the instructions placed on the packaging or issued by the seller. Using a regular spatula, the composition is applied to the surface of the foundation being treated. Before applying the solution, the entire surface must be covered with a special plastic mesh. The mesh is secured with dowels.
- not expensive materials;
- speed of work.
- coating durability 10 - 15 years;
- possibility of microcracks;
- not high water resistance.
Application of liquid rubber
Waterproofing with liquid rubber is carried out by applying it to a primed surface using brushes, rollers or a spray. Since liquid rubber is a ready-made building material, it does not require preliminary preparation, except in cases where several components are used that are mixed before work.
When using such compositions, you need to carefully consult the seller, since some types of these building materials cannot be stored. That is, after opening the package, you must use the entire volume.
- durability, over 50 years;
- ease of work;
- high waterproofing qualities.
- high cost;
- To speed up the work process, a special sprayer is required.
Penetrating waterproofing
Using a sprayer, a special composition is applied to the primed surface, penetrating into the concrete body to a depth of 10-20 cm. The composition is applied to the concrete in several layers.
- durability 50-70 years;
- simple work process;
- high waterproofing properties.
- high price.
Screened waterproofing
Waterproofing strip foundations of this type is very rare. The work process is that special mats are attached to the surface of the foundation (using mounting gun) or panels (inserted into locks located along the edges). On your own Impossible to perform; licensed specialists are required.
Horizontal waterproofing
Waterproofing with roll materials
It is used to protect foundations and buildings from the negative effects of capillary moisture.
A tape of material is laid on the concrete surface, with a protrusion of 5 - 15 cm beyond the edges of the walls of structures standing on it. The tape can be laid as a second layer of mastic or as separate element, without base and fastening.
Drainage system
Serves to drain groundwater or melt water from the foundation.
Along the perimeter of the foundation, a separate trench is dug, with a depth below the bottom of the foundation, 20-30 cm, and a slope towards the drainage basin or technical well. If necessary, sand is placed in the drainage trench. Afterwards, geotextiles are spread, extending 50-70 cm onto the walls of the trenches. The next layer is 5-10 cm of gravel (do not tamp!), on which it will lie drainage pipe, with a slope of 5-6 mm/1 m drainage pipe.
The required slope is formed by the layout of previously laid gravel. Then, a 20-40 cm layer of gravel is added, onto which the edges of the geotextile are wrapped (overlapping). Afterwards the trench is filled with soil.
Horizontal waterproofing of a strip foundation, made using this technology, will freely allow water to flow to the pipe for subsequent drainage, without clogging it.
If there is no water collector, then you need to make one - for example, by installing a well from concrete rings or a container of suitable size.
Conclusion
Before choosing the type of waterproofing, you should consult with a specialist, provided that it is not specified in project documentation. Waterproofing carried out in compliance with the technology will reliably protect not only the foundation itself, but also the structure built on it. An accurate calculation of building materials will help save money and minimize the cost of repair work in the future.
