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Waterproofing Design

Sympathetic waterproofing solution to historic structure

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Overview

The former Bradford Odeon Cinema, saved from demolition by a local campaign, has been transformed into an exciting music venue, newly named “Bradford Live”. Built in 1930, the cinema hosted famous acts like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones in the 1960s before being left derelict for 23 years.

The venue will feature a main auditorium, smaller spaces for corporate events, weddings, and graduations, and will host business conferences, awards ceremonies, comedy shows, and family entertainment.

Construction started in 2021, with many original features, such as the ballroom’s art deco ceiling, being restored.

Delta Registered Installers, Timberwise (UK) Ltd having worked with the main contractor previously, were called upon to give assistance on a dry rot outbreak and to design a custom, robust waterproofing solution for the large underground basement.

The scope of the project was to provide a Grade 3 environment to a large existing large basement which will feature multiple bars, toilets, seating areas along with further excavation for lift pits, etc.

This complex project required a specialist to provide an efficient, compliant, and future proof approach.

Methodology

Timberwise (UK) Ltd collaborated with architects and the project team to provide a straightforward, effective approach. Their waterproofing design ensured a robust and suitable system that integrated seamlessly with the structure, adhering to BS 8102:2022 standards, Approved Documents, and industry Best Practice Guidance. This design emphasised continuity, proper sequencing and installation, and future maintenance and serviceability.

Timberwise (UK) Ltd specified a Delta Type C system.  A Type C waterproofing system, or cavity drain membrane system (CDM), effectively manages water ingress by creating a drainage cavity within the structure, directing water to a sump and pump or external drain. Key benefits include flexibility for both new and existing properties, a ‘failsafe’ design that doesn’t rely on external barriers, and reversible installation suitable for historic buildings.  The system’s discreet internal finishing and under-cover installation allow work to proceed regardless of weather conditions and reduce susceptibility to minor installation defects compared to surface barriers.

Before installation of the Delta Type C system, all existing walls and new concrete slab were treated with Koster Polysil TG 500 anti-lime inhibiter to seal the surfaces and reduce the leaching of ‘free lime’ which could cause blockages behind the membranes.

Attention was given to all wall/floor junctions and fillet seals were created.   Angles are potential stress points for waterproofing systems.  These crack endangered areas require special attention.

Delta PT, a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) cavity drain membrane which features a plastic mesh welded to its dimpled surface, serves as an impermeable damp proofing base for plaster or shotcrete, and functions as a water control and drainage membrane.   Delta PT was securely fixed to the internal walls using specialist fixing plugs, with Delta MS20 installed to floors.

Below the floor membrane perimeter drainage channels were sited within rebates allowing for suitable drainage of any future water ingress and this being diverted to suitable discharge point (on this occasion a mechanical pump system).

To ensure the Type C system was fully maintainable, inspection ports were located at every major change of direction.

The basement drainage system features four Dual Delta Pumping Stations, each with an individual high level water alarm (HLA) and battery backup systems to keep pumps running in event of mains power outage.

All floors and drainage elements were tested to ensure these would drain as the system was designed and BS 8102:2022 requirements were met.

A new lift pit waterproofing detail has been integrated into the elevator system, featuring a preformed liner sandwiched between concrete, enabling lift engineers to drill internally without compromising the waterproofing system.

The need to service and maintain the drainage elements of type C waterproofing systems is paramount to long-term success.  Timberwise (UK) Ltd, incorporated inspection ports in the perimeter channel and installed the sump pump in a location that allows easy access for periodic servicing.

After the Type C System was installed the all-important final integrity testing was undertaken to exercise the waterproofing system in worst case scenario.

Products Used

  • Delta PT
  • Delta MS 20
  • Koster Polysil TG 500
  • Delta Tape/Cornerstrip
  • Delta Drainage Channel
  • Delta Packaged Pumping Stations
  • High Level Alarms
  • Battery Backups

Case Study Results

The former Bradford Odeon Cinema has been transformed from an unused derelict building back to its former glory for many theatrical and musical performances to be enjoyed once again.

The project was delivered on time and to budget.

The client was delighted with Timberwise (UK) Ltd’s ability to collaborate throughout the build process, adapting to phasing and sequencing to provide a robust waterproofing solution.         

 

Value Engineering in Structural Waterproofing

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Value engineering is a method to deliver essential project functions at the lowest cost. It substitutes materials and methods with cheaper alternatives without losing functionality. Focused on functions rather than physical attributes, value engineering is also known as value analysis.

Value engineering reviews products in the design phase to cut costs and boost functionality, enhancing product value. It aims to produce items cost-effectively without compromising their purpose. The concept of Value Engineering began at General Electric Co. during World War II.  During the war, there were shortages of skilled labour, raw materials, and component parts. Lawrence Miles and Harry Erlicher at G.E. sought suitable substitutes.

Aligning Value Engineering with Structural Waterproofing

Messrs Miles Erlicher defined product value as the ratio of function to cost. Function is the work an item is designed to perform, and cost covers its life cycle expenses. Increasing product value involves enhancing function or reducing cost. Value engineering includes analysing costs related to production, design, maintenance, and replacement.

Product value =              Function

                                         __________

                                                 Cost

Waterproofing requires a tailored design approach, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution.  So, to achieve value engineering in structural waterproofing, consideration should be given to product, Product performance characteristics, installation, future maintenance and worst-case scenario, refitting flawed or failed systems.

Waterproofing is vital for maintaining the integrity and value of a structure. Poor workmanship, wrong materials, lack of preparation, or missed details during installation can cause failed waterproofing systems, leading to water damage and expensive repairs.  Addressing waterproofing issues early ensures a structure stays in great condition. Although waterproofing costs only 2-5% of a building’s total expense, to rectify failed or flawed waterproofing, can account to nearly 80% of all construction-related problems.

Effective structural waterproofing relies on precise product selection and proper installation methods from the start.

Waterproofing Design

Waterproofing design is essential in construction, employing various methods and materials to prevent water ingress. Effective waterproofing design enhances building longevity and safeguards structures against water damage.

Three key stages to successful waterproofing: design, specification, and installation.

The waterproofing designer will assess “value” and incorporate this into their design.  Not all waterproofing products/materials are equal.  Different products offer varied qualities and features, so it’s important to choose the right one for the project.

A Waterproofing Design Specialist must know various waterproofing systems and BS 8102:2022. They should understand water sources, their interaction with structures, and soil flow. Structural principles and geotechnical knowledge are essential for working with engineers and interpreting soil reports.

Delta Technical Team

Delta’s Technical Team can help you find value engineering solutions for your waterproofing project.  For all your project requirements, Delta’s Technical Team is a dependable resource. Offering expert advice, comprehensive support, and timely practical assistance, we cater to your specific needs. Contact us today to optimise your project’s performance and cost efficiency.    

Tel: 01992 523 523 or drop us an email at info@deltamembranes.com.

Newton Latent Defects Guarantee is the Ultimate in Waterproofing Insurance

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Latent defectsNewton Waterproofing, the UK’s leading independent designer and supplier of guaranteed structural waterproofing systems, now offers Latent Defects Insurance – and it is the only such policy available through a UK waterproofing supplier.

With experience of more than 170 years, the family-run business based in Tonbridge has been providing clients with an unrivalled service for decades. Now, the Newton Latent Defects Insurance will provide customers with the ultimate protection.

Newton Waterproofing’s MD Warren Muschialli said: “In 2019, the construction insurance guarantees market underwent significant change, with a number of insurers withdrawing from the sector. Early in 2020, there was a further reduction in the number of rated insurers able to provide insurance for waterproofing.

“By its very nature, waterproofing is a risky business and it’s very tough to find good guarantees in the waterproofing sector.

“A lot of companies will provide self-guarantees but there is no insurance provided, while others will provide warranties that are not insurance-backed.

“But with our Newton Latent Defects Insurance we have managed to provide a unique policy which is backed by an A-rated, UK-based insurer.”

Peace of Mind Guaranteed

135 Golders Green Road NW11 8HG 18 June-3With a policy term of up to 12 years, the Latent Defects Insurance is available on qualifying projects which use multiple Newton waterproofing products to achieve a minimum score of 3.0 on the Newton Waterproofing Index (NWI). The NWI is a unique specification tool that provides specifiers and designers with a scoring system to accurately assess the level of risk and potential success involved in any waterproofing design.

The application for the guarantee is made via the installer directly to Newton’s A-rated insurer, and for the first two years of the policy the responsibility for repairing any leaks and defects lies with the installing contractor. Once this period has expired, all repairs are the responsibility of the insurer.

Newton’s Specialist Contractors have been specifically audited to ensure that they meet the necessary requirements to be able to provide the guarantee, while Newton’s waterproofing solutions and products have also successfully passed a rigorous auditing process to ensure that they are of sufficient quality to support the guarantee.

“Instead of a 10-year policy term we are offering a 12-year option which gives us a competitive edge,” said Warren. “No other waterproofing supplier in the UK can provide this level of protection and this is the best waterproofing guarantee on the market from a UK insurer that you can get.

“It comes through us and is backed by us – we are the broker’s client so the specifier knows that we will take responsibility for the waterproofing.”

Newton provide the best waterproofing systems for all structures, from new and existing domestic properties to large-scale commercial developments. For the right waterproofing help and advice with your next project, contact Newton Waterproofing on 01732 360 095 or email info@newtonwaterproofing.co.uk.

The Importance of Active Leak Stopping

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For anyone in a non-technical sense to fully appreciate the nature and risks associated with water ingress in below ground structures, we invite you to read this paper to gain an understanding of substructure waterproofing and the importance of remedial action. Potential consequences of active leaks are numerous, from cost for remedial works to reduction in building life cycle.

Sources of external water such as a high or rising water table, river, extreme weather, tidal changes, poorly drained soil, defective drains can all result in water penetration of a structure at below ground level.

North London luxury residenceThis penetrating water may have enough pressure and strength to ingress a structure, even one which is presumed to have been adequately waterproofed.

Basements and other below ground structures can leak both during and after construction. Any construction below ground will always be subject to groundwater.   Groundwater will try and will seep through cracks and joints in all construction. Joints (from movement to floor/wall junctions) will always require attention when waterproofing and these are common pitfalls in project fails.

Koster_2_IN_1-1There are often miscommunications and understanding of definitions of waterproofing. It is often presumed one waterproof system is enough to ‘waterproof’ a below ground structure, leading to a misconception that the structure is impervious to ground water.

Waterproofing design should always be undertaken by a Waterproofing Design Specialist, someone with a CSSW or equivalent qualification and to be designed to meet British Standard BS 8102:2009. A Waterproofing Design Specialist will always design a waterproofing system to reduce risk, this system will combine the project requirements with best practice. The successful choice, design and construction of a waterproofing scheme rely on heavily on communication between the manufacturer, design team, installer, contractor and owner – a better understanding of advice and practicalities encourage Best Practice and ultimately openness, transparency and accountability.

Stopping Active Water LeaksRemedial work to active leaks in construction, which is exposed, are relatively easy to find and fix. If the construction is not exposed and finishing’s are in place, these leaks are difficult to find but not impossible. Use of a thermal imaging cameras/borescopes/moisture meters or visual inspections are usually enough to locate these leaks.

Depending on the leak itself will depend on the remedial work required. It is important to understand the waterproofing options available and how these will have a cost and time implication to a project.

Join Georgia Burbridge, CSSW on Tuesday 26 May at 11 am for her live presentation on “Active Leak Stopping”. To register for this online live seminar, just email Rachelm@deltamembranes.com.  Rachel will respond with a link, meeting ID and password. On the day, simply click on the link provided and join the presentation.

Delta adjusting and adapting to the “New”

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We are continuing to operate through the lockdown, surprisingly there are still lots of projects which require critical equipment, such as our drainage systems to ensure homes are maintained during this unprecedented period.

Delta Office 2018We are committed to providing a service that’s as close to ‘business as usual’ and our #TechnicalTeam have adjusted incredibly well to working remotely.  Surprisingly Delta has received an increase in online traffic.

We’re at the helm of shifting all things waterproofing online.  To help keep your projects moving, we have now introduced real time software to enable our Technical Team to offer Video Conferencing, CPD Seminars, Training Workshops, document exchange and to ensure we maintain our approachability and the ability to collaborate with your entire team, no matter where they are.

Our #TechnicalTeam can support you with:

  • Waterproofing Design
  • Flood Resilience, Resistance and Recoverability Design
  • Ground Gas Protection Design
  • Ground Gas Protection and Waterproofing Design
  • Specifications
  • Correct Product Selection
  • Best Practice Guidance
  • RIBA and CIWEM Accredited CPD Seminars
  • Training and Guidance.

There are currently some exiting ideas being discussed on Delta’s platforms, as we step into and become accustomed to our new reality.

Saving lives during the COVID-19 pandemic, is top of everyone’s agenda at present and we all must do what we can to support the Government, our NHS, colleagues, family members and the Delta Community.

building section 3d rendering

At this time of uncertainty, we’d like to thank you, our customers for your continued understanding as we work hard to maintain ‘business as usual’.

We will continue to post on our social channels, so please follow us and we’ll share some things to lift your spirits, whilst keeping to best practice advice and guidance.  Our online CPD is available on our website, as are our “how to” video guides.   We are planning on taking this opportunity to broaden our Brochure Suite with the introduction of new materials and to roll our new products – watch this space!

Set your shoulders, lift your chin – we’ve got this.

Stay well

Chris, Kevin, David & Brian

Delta Directors