Lift Pit Repair
Introduction
Lift pits are highly susceptible to water ingress due to their position below ground level. Left untreated, this can cause structural deterioration, corrosion of lift components, operational downtime, and significant long-term costs. Total Specialist Maintenance (TSM) was appointed to remediate a leaking lift pit where recurring water infiltration had begun to compromise both the structure and functionality of the lift system.
By applying a combination of resin injection, concrete repair, and advanced waterproofing mortars, TSM delivered a robust, durable solution that not only eliminated the immediate water ingress but also safeguarded the structure against future deterioration.
The Challenge
The lift pit presented several issues that demanded careful handling:
- Confined working environment: Access restrictions required precision application of materials and strict adherence to health and safety protocols.
- Durability requirements: The waterproofing solution needed to withstand long-term hydrostatic pressure.
- Minimal downtime: The client required works to be completed swiftly to restore lift operations with minimal disruption.
The Importance of Waterproofing
Water ingress in lift pits is more than just an inconvenience. If left unresolved, it can lead to:
- Corrosion of lift equipment and reinforcement steel
- Unsafe working conditions due to standing water and potential electrical hazards
- Increased maintenance and operational costs
- Structural degradation requiring major repair.
TSM’s expertise ensured these risks were fully mitigated through a tailored approach combining resin injection stabilisation with cementitious waterproofing systems.
The Solution
TSM delivered a comprehensive waterproofing package, executed in carefully sequenced stages:
1. Leak Sealing with Resin Injection
Areas of infiltration were identified and treated using specialist resin injection techniques. The resin penetrated cracks and construction joints, forming a permanent watertight barrier.
2. Surface Preparation
All substrates were mechanically prepared to remove contaminants and provide a clean, keyed surface for subsequent coatings.
3. Concrete Repairs
Fillets were formed at all 90-degree junctions using Nafufill KM250 concrete repair mortar, reducing stress points and providing a smooth transition for waterproof coatings.
4. Waterproofing Application
A slurry coat of MC Proof 101 HS high-strength waterproof tanking mortar was applied to the entire surface of slabs and walls. This was followed by two coats of 4mm MC Proof 101 HS, delivering a total build-up designed to withstand long-term water pressure and environmental conditions.
Handling Project Complexities
TSM’s expertise was vital in navigating the unique challenges of the project:Confined Space Expertise
All operatives were trained in confined space entry, ensuring safe and efficient working conditions.Precision Application
The sequencing of resin injection and coating applications was carefully managed to guarantee adhesion and long-term performance.Minimal Disruption
The project was completed within tight deadlines, allowing lift operations to resume swiftly.Quality Assurance
Each stage underwent inspection to confirm effective sealing and coating integrity.
Environmental Considerations
The chosen resin and waterproofing systems were solvent-free, non-toxic once cured, and produced minimal waste. This meant:
- No risk of contamination to groundwater
- Reduced environmental footprint compared to alternative solutions
- Compliance with industry standards for safe use in occupied buildings
Project Outcome
The lift pit was fully sealed, structurally reinforced at weak points, and protected with a robust waterproofing system. Post-completion inspections confirmed:
- Zero water ingress after treatment
- Improved durability of the pit structure
- Extended service life for the lift equipment
- Minimal operational downtime for the client
TSM’s successful execution of this lift pit waterproofing project demonstrates our ability to provide specialist, long-lasting solutions in sensitive and technically challenging environments. By combining leak sealing expertise with advanced waterproofing technology, TSM ensured structural integrity, operational reliability, and long-term protection.
For more information on TSM’s waterproofing and specialist construction services, visit www.totalsm.co.uk
