Addressing Water Ingress Issues in a Concrete Basement Car Park
In construction, ensuring the integrity of structures against water ingress is vital for maintaining functionality and safety. This project in Cambridge involved Total Specialist Maintenance (TSM) addressing significant water penetration issues for a construction contractor managing a new concrete basement car park.
The Challenge
The client had recently completed the construction of a new concrete basement car park; however, they were facing serious challenges due to substantial water ingress through the concrete slab. This issue not only threatened the structural integrity of the facility but also posed risks of further damage, including potential safety hazards and operational disruptions. Key concerns included:
- Immediate Remediation Needs: The water ingress required urgent attention to prevent further damage and ensure that the facility could operate as intended.
- Maintaining Structural Integrity: It was essential to implement a solution that would not compromise the structural integrity of the concrete slab while effectively sealing the water ingress points.
The Solution
To effectively address the water penetration issues, TSM implemented a comprehensive injection waterproofing strategy. The process involved several critical steps:
- Drilling: TSM began by creating holes at a 45-degree angle along the cracks in the concrete slab. This angle was chosen to effectively reach the midpoint of the crack, ensuring optimal resin penetration.
- Installing Packings: Injection no-return valve packers were fitted into the drilled holes. These packers facilitated the injection process by preventing backflow and ensuring that the waterproof resin would be directed into the cracks.
- Injecting Waterproof Resin: TSM introduced a high-performance waterproof injection resin into the cracks. This specialised resin was designed to expand and fill voids within the concrete, effectively sealing the cracks and preventing water ingress.
- Removing Packers: After the resin had set and cured, the injection packers were carefully removed. This was done to avoid any potential damage to the surrounding concrete and to ensure a clean finish.
- Plugging Holes: Finally, TSM filled the drilled holes with a fast-setting, watertight plugging mortar. This step completed the waterproofing process, restoring the integrity of the concrete surface and providing a seamless finish.
This systematic approach ensured a robust waterproof seal, effectively addressing the client’s concerns and restoring the functionality of the basement car park.
Managing Site Sensitivity
Given the nature of the project, TSM implemented careful planning to minimise disruption:
- Real-Time Monitoring: Throughout the waterproofing process, TSM monitored the area to ensure that there were no additional leaks or structural concerns arising during the remediation.
- Client Coordination: TSM maintained open lines of communication with the construction contractor, providing regular updates on progress and ensuring that all work was aligned with the overall project timeline.
Environmental Considerations
The injection waterproofing method employed was environmentally friendly, offering several benefits:
- Non-Toxic Materials: The waterproof resin used was non-toxic, ensuring that it posed no risk to the surrounding environment or occupants of the facility.
- Minimal Waste Generation: The injection method resulted in minimal waste, aligning with TSM’s commitment to sustainable practices and environmental responsibility.
Ensuring Structural Integrity
Throughout the project, TSM conducted regular assessments to confirm that the waterproofing measures were effective and that the structural integrity of the concrete slab was maintained. This proactive approach provided reassurance to the client that the facility was safe and operational.
