Discover effective Common Problems Solved by Basement Tanking Systems to keep your home dry, prevent damp, mould, and structural damage. Protect your property today.
Damp Patches on Walls and Floors
Basement tanking systems are designed to stop damp patches from forming on walls and floors. These patches often appear due to moisture seeping through the underground structure. Over time, this dampness can spread, leading to staining, flaking paint and even damage to plaster. Tanking creates a waterproof barrier that prevents water from penetrating the basement walls and floor surfaces. This keeps the area dry and stops damp from affecting your property.
Once tanked, the basement can be safely used as extra living or storage space. It also helps to maintain the structure of the building by reducing the risk of long-term moisture damage.
Water Ingress During Heavy Rain
Basements are highly vulnerable to water ingress, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. Water can enter through cracks in walls, joints in the foundation, or around pipes. In older homes, this is often due to a lack of proper waterproofing. Without protection, large amounts of water can enter quickly, causing flooding and serious damage.
A basement tanking system works by creating a sealed, waterproof barrier around the walls and floor. This barrier is typically made using a slurry, membrane, or cavity drain system.
These solutions stop water from entering the basement, even under strong hydrostatic pressure caused by heavy rainfall.
Some systems also include internal drainage channels and sump pumps. These features collect any water that manages to get through and direct it safely away from the building. This not only prevents flooding but also protects walls, flooring and any items stored in the space.
By using a tanking system, homeowners can enjoy peace of mind, knowing their basement is protected from future weather-related water ingress.
Mould and Musty Smells in the Basement
Mould and musty smells in a basement are usually caused by high humidity or hidden leaks. These conditions create the perfect environment for mould to grow, which can lead to health issues and damage to walls, furniture and fabrics. Tanking systems solve this by keeping the basement completely dry.
Once the waterproof barrier is in place, moisture can no longer get in. This reduces humidity and stops mould from developing. Over time, any existing smells will fade as the air dries out. With proper ventilation and a dry structure, the basement becomes a clean, healthy part of the home.
Rising Damp from Below Ground
Rising damp is a common problem in basements. It happens when water from the ground is drawn up through walls and floors. This can damage paint, plaster and brickwork, and may also lead to mould growth. Tanking systems are designed to stop this by forming a waterproof layer that blocks moisture from rising. The barrier is applied directly to the internal walls and floor, creating a sealed surface.
In some cases, a cavity drainage system is also used to channel water away before it can cause damage. This approach not only stops damp but also helps protect the building’s structure over time.
Tanking is especially important in older buildings where traditional damp-proof courses may have failed or are missing altogether. By controlling rising damp, you can turn a damp, unusable basement into a dry and useful part of your home.
Whether it’s for storage or extra living space, tanking ensures that the area remains safe and protected from below-ground moisture.
Damage to Furniture and Stored Items
Without proper protection, basements can become damp and unsuitable for storing belongings. Moisture and water leaks often damage furniture, cardboard boxes, clothing and electrical items. Wooden items may warp or rot, and fabrics can develop a musty smell. A basement tanking system helps prevent this by keeping the area dry at all times.
By sealing walls and floors, it stops water from getting in and creating a damp environment. This makes it safe to use the space for storage or even as an extra room. Your items stay protected, and you gain more usable space in your home.
If you're looking for basement tanking systems and services for your home or commercial building, contact Above Water Damp Proofing Ltd. It's essential to protect your property from water damage, structural damage, and harmful mould growth that could be bad for your health.
