RESOURCES
3 GRADES OF BASEMENT WATERPROOFING
The British Standard BS8102:2009 identifies the level of dryness within a below ground, internal space, on a tiered Grade (from 1-3), with Grade 1 being the lowest grade, and Grade 3 the highest or driest. When designing a below ground space, the Grade of waterproofing required will be initially determined by the intended use of the space, and it’s requirement for dryness as per the National Construction Code (NCC) and the BCA.
Secondary will be the property owner’s desired Grade. Section 2.2 of the Building Code of Australia (Volume 2 – which applies to Class 1 structures) “Damp and Weatherproofing” states that “a building is to be constructed to provide resistance to moisture from the outside and moisture rising from the ground.”
The following grading of basements should be used as a guide when determining the waterproofing system to be designed and installed, but most importantly any ‘habitable space’ MUST achieve a Grade 3 rating.
GRADE 1
Some seepage and damp areas tolerable
Non-Habitable Space
EXAMPLES
– Commercial basement
– Car parking
– Areas where there will be no finishes or linings on the walls.
GRADE 2
No water penetrationacceptable. Damp areastolerable
Non-Habitable Space
EXAMPLES
– Basement plant and equipment rooms.
– Lift pits, pump rooms, storage rooms.
– Areas where there will be no finishes or linings on the walls.
GRADE 3
No water penetration or moisture acceptable
Habitable Space
EXAMPLES
– Basement media room
– Home gym
– Leisure or entertainment space
– Areas where there will be moisture sensitive materials on the inside, such as plasterboard linings.
When requested by customers to deliver a ‘dry basement’, Dryspace Solutions recommends the installation of a ‘combination’ waterproofing system, with the installation of at least 2 of the 3 types of waterproofing systems (a, b or c) and at least 1 of the 3 systems specified as a Type C, cavity drain membrane system.
Our team of experts can provide you with an obligation free assessment of your home, along with some options for repair – giving you peace of mind.