Basement Tanking
Many London homes have basements and cellars, which is either utilised for living space or storage and with a damp climate and high-water table, damp-proofing is very much in demand across the capital city. While damp is a problem all across the UK, London sits on a bed of clay and the ground holds water, which means below-ground living space requires professional damp-proofing.
Leading Damp Surveying Company
London Damp Proofing is a family-run business and we are the go-to company when it comes to assessing basements for damp, mould and timber rot. We cover all London Boroughs and all areas within the M25; if your basement has damp issues, we will not only source the origin, we can also put you in touch with London’s leading damp-proofing company.
Types of Underground Living Space
There are quite a few basement/cellar designs, which are as follows:
- Lookout Basement – This basement is level and the walls are above ground level, with windows that allow natural light to enter the space.
- Walk-Up Basement – Typically found in Victorian terraced houses, this type of basement has a front staircase that leads to a front door, which is often converted into a self-contained flat.
- Daylight Basement – Built on a slope, with part of the space above ground level and an exterior door. Windows provide essential ventilation and the space can be used for living space or storage.
- Full Underground Cellar/Basement – Typically used for wine storage or a home office, a ventilation system is essential to maintain a dry atmosphere.
- Underground Crawl Space – A low space where it is not possible to stand up; primarily used for storage.
Regardless of the design, if you are having damp issues with your basement, contact London Damp Proofing and one of our PCA-certified damp surveyors will accurately assess the space and recommend the best long-term solution.
Basement Tanking
This is a term for basement waterproofing using waterproof render/plaster; all damaged plaster must be removed from the walls and ceilings, then the substrate is carefully prepared before the application of water-resistant render/plaster. Each coat must fully dry before the next coat is applied and when we survey a basement, we can put you in touch with the best basement tanking contractor in London.
Cavity Drainage System
This is the preferred treatment for a basement with serious moisture issues and it involves the removal of damaged plaster and the installation of studded waterproof membrane that provides a cavity that is used for controlled drainage. The membrane is fitted to the ceiling and walls, while the flooring has channels to direct water to a sump area, where it is pumped to drainage points. This is ideal for large basements and, of course, it is much easier to waterproof a basement when it is under construction, but it can also be done to an existing underground space.
Types of Damp Issues That Can Impact Basements
The following damp issues can seriously damage a basement:
- Rising Damp
- Penetrating Damp
- Condensation
- Woodworm
- Timber Rot (wet and dry)
- Mould & Mildew
Ventilation is a core component of minimising damp and mould issues in a basement and it is possible to have an efficient ventilation system installed that will generate a positive movement of air throughout the basement.
Professional Evaluation
If you are currently planning a basement build, talk to our damp experts who can incorporate the best waterproofing system to guarantee the space remains dry and free from mould. We can also put you in touch with the best basement waterproofing in London.
If your existing basement has damp issues, let the best in the business take a look and we will make the right recommendation to stop damp and mould in its tracks.
Call London Damp Proofing on the number below or complete the survey booking form on this website and one of our PCA-certified surveyors will be in touch.