External basement waterproofing 

With limited space available in urban areas, underground construction has become much more prevalent. Basements are now being utilized as cost-effective living or storage spaces, while parking areas are being moved beneath commercial or apartment buildings. Due to their proximity to rivers or the ocean, many cities have a high water table, making it crucial to waterproof below-grade structures to ensure their functionality. Below-grade waterproofing is the primary area of expertise for waterproofing professionals, as roughly 80% of building damage is related to moisture problems. However, reliable moisture protection can be achieved for less than 5% of the total construction cost. By safeguarding buildings against moisture, waterproofing specialists not only protect the buildings themselves but also the investments made in them. That’s why top-quality waterproofing is critical.

What is positive side waterproofing?

Positive side waterproofing is the key method of preventing water from penetrating a below ground structure. This type of waterproofing involves the application of a waterproofing material to the external surface that comes into direct contact with water. For instance, in the case of a basement wall, the waterproofing material would be applied to the exterior surface of the wall, preventing water from seeping through and causing damage. Positive side waterproofing is often preferred to other methods because it allows for easy maintenance and repair, as the internal face then left easily accessible. It is also an effective way to prevent water damage and maintain the structural integrity of a building or tank over the long term.

The KÖSTER solutions for positive side waterproofing

KÖSTER NB 4000 – Flexible Polymer Modified Coating (FPD)

KÖSTER Deuxan 2C – Polymer Modified Bitumen Coating (PMBC)

KÖSTER Bikuthan 1C/2C – Polymer Modified Bitumen Coating (PMBC), polystyrol filled

KÖSTER NB 1 Grey / NB 2 White – Mineral waterproofing (rigid waterproofing slurry) with crystallizing additives

KÖSTER NB Elastic Grey – Crack bridging cementitious waterproofing (mineral flexible waterproofing slurry MDS)

KÖSTER 21 – Universally applicable liquid waterproofing

KÖSTER KSK SY 15 – Cold self-adhesive polymer-bitumen waterproofing membrane

HAVE A LOOK AT OUR RANGE OF WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS HERE

For each case the best solution: various factors influence the selection of a waterproofing system, such as the characteristics and condition of the substrate, the structure, the construction site, and environmental conditions. The waterproofing material must be suitable for the substrate and structure and be able to withstand the loading and movement  conditions which it will be exposed to. If a substrate is in danger of cracking, the waterproofing material must have crack bridging properties. If the substrate is moist, only materials that can tolerate moist substrates can be used.