Basement Flooding: Effective Waterproofing Solutions
While damp proofing a house is complex, waterproofing a basement is a different ball game altogether. Known as basement tanking, there are several ways to keep an underground space dry, with the most common being a cavity drainage system.
What is a cavity drainage system?
A type C cavity drainage system comprises of 3 main components, which are as follows:
- Cavity drain membrane – Typically made from high density polyethylene, there are studs fitted to create a wall cavity, an essential gap between the interior walls and the substrate. Water that enters this cavity is then channelled into a floor channel, where it is pumped into the drains.
- Drainage channels – Located at the bottom of the wall cavity membrane, the drainage channels direct water into the sump area.
- Sump area and pump – The sump area contains water, which is then pumped into designated discharge points.
With the ceiling, walls and floor all protected by cavity membrane, the basement waterproofing system is comprehensive. It takes a few days to install a cavity drainage system and all items in the basement must be removed prior to the commencement of work.
Benefits of cavity drainage system
The benefits include:
- Reliable and efficient – A cavity drainage system offers a reliable and highly efficient solution that requires very little in the way of maintenance.
- Minimal surface preparation – Unlike traditional basement tanking, a cavity drainage system does not involve much in terms of surface preparation.
- Minimal stress on the structure – The system does not resist ground water pressure, which means less stress on the structure long term.
At London Damp Specialists, we are proud of our excellent reputation and to reflect that, we issue a comprehensive 30-year guarantee. There are many advantages with a cavity drainage system, which is not only very effective, but it also requires minimal maintenance. The best time to install a cavity drainage system is during the initial construction, although it can be fitted at any time.
Basement tanking
Cementitious tanking uses a cement-based waterproof coating applied on the interior walls and ceilings, creating a waterproof membrane. At London Damp Specialists, we have a wealth of hands-on experience in basement waterproofing in London; give us a call on 020 7458 4864 or fill in the form on this website.
Why choose London Damp Specialists?
Our service is second to none and there isn’t anything we haven’t seen before! Our surveyors provide fast, professional service and our basement tanking solutions offer London homeowners a watertight resolution that comes with a 30-year warranty.
Cast iron guarantee
If we waterproof your basement, you have the security of knowing you have a permanent solution; if there are any issues, we will fix it at no cost to the customer. This amazing guarantee is unconditional; if we waterproof your basement and there are issues later, we have you covered.
Your home is a huge investment and it makes sense to have the building protected from damp; we are a leading London damp proofing firm with a great reputation in the industry.
Damp Survey Costs
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees for our independent, unbiased surveys.
Level 1
What’s included:
- Inspection of walls
- Inspection of floors
- Inspection of ceilings
- Leak inspection of drains and plumbing
- Damp information and prevention guide
Level 2
What’s included:
- Everything in Level 1
- Dry rot inspection
- Wet rot inspection
- Woodworm inspection
- Damp information and prevention guide
Level 3 (Most Popular)
What’s included:
- Everything in Level 1 & Level 2
- Thermal Imaging
- Air humidity testing
- HD boroscope camera
- Brickwork pointing inspection
- DPC inspection
- Ventilation flow test on extractor fans
- 4K drone imagery roof, chimney stack
and guttering inspection - Structural condition inspection
- Damp information and prevention guide
Survey Add Ons
Add On 1
Laboratory analysis Of plaster identifies hygroscopic salts such as chlorides and nitrates. which indicate whether damp is caused by rising groundwater or by plumbing leaks, This testing removes guesswork, allowing the exact source of moisture to be identified so the correct treatment is applied rather than carrying out unnecessary damp-proofing work.
Add On 2
qPCR DNA mould testing detects microscopic mould spores that are invisible during a normal inspection and van remain hidden behind walls, floors. or inside building rkaterials. It identifies the exact mould species present and the contamination level, allowing hidden mould problems to be confirrned and properly treated before they affect the property or occupants’ health.
Qualifications: All our surveyors are PCA and CSRT qualified for remedial treatments and also CSSW qualified for structural waterproofing.
Next day report: You will receive the report within 24 hours of the inspection taking place.
The survey fee will be deducted from the cost of any recommended repairs.
These are the tools we use
A damp meter
A damp meter is a diagnostic tool used to detect and measure moisture levels within building materials such as plaster, brick, timber, and concrete.
Borescope camera
borescope camera is a small inspection camera attached to a flexible semi-rigid cable that allows you to see inside areas that are otherwise inaccessible.
Inspection Drone
A drone is a remotely operated aerial device equipped with a camera that allows visual inspection from above without the need for scaffolding or ladder.
Air Humidity Sensor
Air humidity sensor measures the amount of moisture present in the air, expressed as relative humidity (RH) in percentage. It helps determine whether indoor conditions are contributing to condensation, mould growth, or damp-related issues.
Thermal Imaging Camera
A thermal imaging camera detects temperature differences on surfaces by using infrared technology to produce a heat map image. In damp investigations, it helps identify cold spots, moisture intrusion, insulation defects, thermal bridging and leaks.
Air Flow Ventilation Detector
An air flow ventilation detector measures the movement and volume of air passing through vents, extractor fans, and air bricks. It confirms whether ventilation systems are working properly and achieving adequate air changes within a room. Poor airflow leads to trapped moisture, high humidity, condensation on cold surfaces, and ultimately mould growth.
Mould Swab Test Kit
A mould swab test is carried out to confirm the presence of hidden mould growth and identify the specific species involved. Surface mould is not always visible, especially behind furniture, inside cavities, or within ventilation systems. Laboratory analysis of a swab sample determines whether active mould spores are present and what type they are, which helps assess potential health risks and decide the correct remediation approach rather than relying on visual assumption alone.
Plaster Salt Analysis Lab
Laboratory analysis of plaster is used to identify the type of salts present within the material, typically chlorides and nitrates. The presence and concentration of these salts help determine whether the moisture source is consistent with rising damp, ground contamination, or another forms [sic] of water ingress. such as mains water leak, This removes guesswork and prevents misdiagnosis, ensuring the correct remedial treatment is specified rather than applying unnecessary or ineffective solutions.
