Effective methods of waterproofing foundations of various types. Waterproofing measures to protect the foundation How to properly waterproof a foundation

- the basis for the durability of the entire building as a whole, as well as the safety of the people living in it. Every self-respecting builder pays extremely special attention to foundation work, the so-called “zero cycle” in combination with excavation work. The foundation is not temporary or built by eye, since its reconstruction in most cases is irrational.

This underground element of architecture is constantly located in an aggressive environment, periodically saturated with moisture, and therefore needs additional protection. Regardless of the foundation material and the technology of its construction, a substance such as water can destroy even concrete. To avoid fatal damage, various waterproofing materials are used in today's construction practice. But how can we figure out which one is most suitable in our case? How to make the right choice of waterproofing so as not to spend extra money on materials and work of craftsmen? And is it possible to waterproof the foundation with your own hands?

The processes of moisture movement in the soil, or why the foundation should be waterproofed

Moistening the foundation can occur in various ways. Precipitation floods it from the outside, and high water and groundwater from the inside. In addition to all this, due to its constant presence in the ground, this element does not have the opportunity to dry properly and remove excess moisture accumulation. The structure of concrete, an artificial stone material, has pores through which capillary moisture under pressure can penetrate several meters upward, rising to the very floor of the ground floor.

The disadvantages of moisture accumulation in concrete can be summarized as follows:

Flooding of the foundation with groundwater or high water can also lead to its subsidence and tilting of the entire structure. Since we are talking about stone materials that have extremely low flexibility, only a few degrees of deviation from the horizon are considered acceptable.

Types of waterproofing for foundations

There are many ways to waterproof a foundation. Purely technologically, they are all aimed at preventing foundation moisture as much as possible.

Based on the nature of application, waterproofing is divided into the following types:

Based on the type of material, waterproofing is divided into the following types:

Do-it-yourself foundation waterproofing

Let us consider in practice the work of waterproofing the foundation using the example of the foundation for a small country house. Low-rise construction is considered the most relevant and widespread, so we will make the foundation for our house in the form of a foundation slab for the basement walls with a height of 2.30 m.

The list of works for installing waterproofing is as follows:

1. Pillow with filling– to prevent groundwater that can rise to the level of our basement, we will make a cushion of sand or ASG, 10-15 cm thick. It is necessary to backfill it with gravel to prevent capillary moisture from being absorbed into the monolithic foundation slab of the basement;
   
2. Drainage– during the seasonal rise in water level in the ground, hydrostatic pressure is created, which waterproofing alone cannot reduce. This problem is especially noticeable when the groundwater level is high, for example, when building a house in a low-lying area. In this case, it is necessary to arrange drainage. It is carried out at the stage of completion of foundation work, before backfilling. In the ditch remaining from the pit, on the outside of the foundation, a plastic pipe is laid along its entire perimeter with holes on its walls on the top and sides. These pipes are connected at the corners into inspection wells, which can be inspected when cleaning is necessary. This method eliminates excess moisture accumulation near the foundation walls and frees it from excess water pressure;
   
3. Vertical waterproofing- the external walls of the basement, constructed from piece materials - brick, gas - or foam blocks - must also be waterproofed. After their construction is completed, it is easiest to dry-treat them with bitumen-polymer mastic. This method will save you from unnecessary hassle with heating with a gas burner or delivering heavy rolls to your summer cottage. All you need is a container with waterproofing, a brush or roller to apply it to the foundation walls;
   
4. Horizontal waterproofing– is carried out at the junction of the walls of the house with the foundation or basement floor slab. This is done so that capillary moisture is completely cut off from this structural element. Another reason not to miss this type of waterproofing is to eliminate the influence of rain and surface water on the foundation;
   
5. Blind area– this element is mandatory in our case. It is he who is able to protect the walls of our basement from moisture and subsequent destruction. The blind area is poured from concrete onto a ready-made preparation of sand or ASG, reinforced with a metal frame if necessary. For small thicknesses, a mesh made of VR rod with a thickness of 3-4mm is suitable. The width of the blind area depends on the density of the soil and the width of the roof overhang. However, it is rarely made less than 70-80cm wide. The main condition for its construction is that it must have a slope of at least 4-5 degrees, for sufficient drainage and flood flow beyond the foundation.
   

A serviceable and reliable drainage system will help to significantly improve the situation with melt and rain water, and its penetration into the ground under the foundation. Gutters and downpipes are capable of storing sediment at a planned discharge point, such as a container or well.

The foundation of the house, being constantly in the ground, is periodically moistened. Saturation of concrete or stone elements with moisture can lead to a loss of their strength, and subsequently to their complete destruction. And since the entire structure is located on this element, measures to waterproof the foundation should be taken very seriously.

Waterproofing the foundation of a house is a complex undertaking. When constructing it, it is necessary to take into account the groundwater level and its seasonal changes. Each element of the foundation must be waterproofed in a timely manner, since upon completion of the excavation work these measures will not be effective. And doing foundation waterproofing with your own hands is not at all difficult, because modern materials allow even inexperienced beginners to work with them.

The video clearly shows the process of fusing rolled materials onto the walls and floor of the basement. The main and most common errors in waterproofing foundations and their cause-and-effect relationship are also discussed. This video presentation reveals in detail the procedure for working with roll polymer-bitumen waterproofing, as well as the technological nuances of its application.

One of the important conditions during construction is protecting the supporting part from moisture. The problem is aggravated by the fact that violations of technology in this case are difficult to control without excerpting the basis. It may happen that during the operation of the purchased house problems were discovered. Or another situation: the building was built in compliance with all standards, but has already had a fairly long service life and needs repairs. In all these cases, you will need to waterproof the foundation of an already built house with your own hands.

Insulation methods

There is no mention here of additional measures such as foundation drainage or drainage. These measures relate to protecting the foundation from moisture, but, in fact, are not insulation. It is important that without these works, waterproofing may be meaningless, so you should not forget about them.

The foundation must be reliably protected from water

The main problem arises for strip foundations in houses with a basement. The need for isolation may arise in the following cases:

• violation of technology during house construction(neglect of waterproofing or its insufficient quality);
• deterioration of material characteristics over time(aging, requires repair);
• rising groundwater levels, as a result of which the strip foundation of the house is flooded if there is a basement.

Depending on the cause of the problem and its size, choose the appropriate option from the following:

• coating vertical insulation;
• rolled vertical insulation;
• penetrating waterproofing;
• injection protection of the foundation of a built house;
• use of diffusion membranes;
• mounted methods.

Waterproofing device, if it is missing, insufficient or out of order

Here it is extremely important to find out one thing: the insulation system is completely missing or only vertical protection has been neglected. It is worth noting that if the construction did not provide for horizontal laying of the material, nothing can be done about it without dismantling the foundation of the house.

To eliminate dampness in the basement and prevent structural damage, work can be done from the inside or outside. The first option is more labor-intensive, since you will have to dig up soil around the perimeter of the building, but it is more correct.

Protection against moisture from outside

To repair insufficient waterproofing or correct the situation if it is completely absent, work is performed externally in the following order:

External method of protecting the base from moisture

1. They dig out the foundations from the outside.
2. If there is no drainage around the perimeter of the strip foundation, you need to do it yourself. The location of the pipes in the ground is determined in such a way that they are 30-50 cm lower than the base of the base and are no further than 1 meter from the basement walls.
3. The next stage is assessing the condition of the foundation. If there is significant damage, it must be repaired. Seal cracks, crevices and sinkholes using cement-sand mortar. In case of serious defects, it may be necessary to strengthen the strip foundation of the house. The performance of such work depends on the extent of the damage. If there are problems only on the surface, shotcrete will be sufficient; if the situation is more serious, you can do it yourself to widen the sole or unload the supporting part of the house.
4. Next you will need to choose a waterproofing method. The cheapest option is coating with bitumen. But this protection is suitable for low soil moisture and is not durable. The same can be said about roofing felt (rolled lining material). It is better to repair the strip foundation using more modern materials, such as linochrome, waterproofing, glass insulation, diffusion membranes.
5. After the walls of the basement of the house are protected from moisture, you can build a brick wall around the perimeter. This will become an additional barrier in the ground. Having finished with waterproofing work, backfill is performed with layer-by-layer compaction.
6. The last stage of waterproofing is creating a blind area with your own hands.

Protection from moisture from the inside

Extracting the strip foundation of a house with your own hands is a labor-intensive undertaking. If it is not possible to carry out waterproofing measures from the outside, then the option remains from the inside. In this case, you will not have to work in the ground. The foundation is repaired from the basement side.

The simplest option in this case is the use of coating and roll materials. The method will not require large expenses, but will be ineffective. Such actions will prevent water from entering the basement, but the structure of the strip foundation of the house will not be protected.

Protecting the basement from moisture from the inside

It is better to give preference to more effective measures when doing waterproofing yourself:

• use of penetrating materials;
• injection.

The effect of penetrating insulation is that the composition, entering the thickness of the foundation of the house, crystallizes in the capillaries and prevents the penetration of water. Repair in this case will be quite effective, since the thickness of the basement walls of a private house rarely exceeds 60-70 cm, and some manufacturers claim that their compositions are capable of penetrating to a depth of 90 cm. In this case, when performing work from the inside, even that part of a structure that is located in the ground. Another advantage of this method is its low labor intensity. The disadvantage is the rather high cost of materials for processing.

An effective and simple method of protecting the base

Injection is a more effective method than the previous one, but will require more labor. At the same time, the soil around the basement walls is strengthened. This means that not only the waterproofing is being repaired, but also the supporting part of the house is being strengthened. The work process begins with inserting injectors through pre-drilled holes to the outer edge of the basement walls. The strengthening solution will be supplied through them. The distance between the holes is determined depending on the permeability of the soil and the viscosity of the strengthening composition.

The following mixtures can be used for injection:

Injection allows you to strengthen the supporting structure

• polyurethane foams;
• various resins;
• acrylate gels;
• liquid rubber compounds;
• cement-based mixtures;
• combinations of polymer substances.

If you need to strengthen the base at the same time as insulation, then cement-based mixtures are suitable. When they harden, they turn the soil into a solid stone foundation. In this case, the bearing capacity of the soil increases significantly. Even if the foundation is damaged, this will not lead to uneven shrinkage and the appearance of cracks.

What to do if groundwater levels rise

High water level protection

Compared to the previous problem, this one may cause more trouble and require more serious investment. The way out in this case will be reliable drainage and water reduction. If the foundation is exposed to pressure, it is necessary to isolate not only the base, but also repair the basement.

In addition to strengthening the insulation on the outside, additional measures will be required on the inner edge of the walls. In this case, caissons are often installed, but construction can begin only after preventing the penetration of moisture to the foundation, done in one of the following ways:

• rolled materials with additional protection (for example, the construction of brick walls around the perimeter of the supporting part of the building);
• diffusion membranes (you need to choose those that have a perforated surface, they are designed for vertical protection);
• penetrating compounds;
• injection.

The most reliable, but extremely expensive method would be to repair it by cladding the walls from the inside with steel.

For work, sheets with a thickness of 4-6 mm are taken.

The most reliable basement protection

First, they are cut out and fixed to the surface of the floor and walls (on vertical structures they should be placed just above the groundwater level). The sheets are fastened together by welding. To the floor and walls - using special anchors. They are hammered so that a small space remains between the protected surface and the steel sheet, which is filled with cement mortar through the holes in the sheets. After completion of the work, these holes are closed with steel plates by welding.

The foundation is the part of the structure of any structure that experiences the maximum load. The durability of the building primarily depends on its reliability. If it begins to collapse, this will inevitably lead to deformation of all other elements.

Therefore, increased requirements are placed on foundation waterproofing. This is especially true for private houses, since almost every owner actively uses the ground floor (basement). It is necessary to take into account that this kind of work is carried out comprehensively, and protection from moisture is arranged “universally”. After all, it affects the foundation in different ways, and often simultaneously. In the form of groundwater, precipitation, during snow melting, and river floods.

In some sources you can find opinions that in some cases the waterproofing of the foundation can be neglected. Such statements are “short-sighted.” Any house is built to last for decades. Where is the guarantee that after some time, for example, some significant construction will not begin nearby? But this is - soil movements, which will inevitably affect the location of underground water layers.

Even the construction of a highway with its inevitable asphalting has such an impact. There are many other possible reasons for changes in the configuration and water level in the ground. It is also necessary to take into account that throughout the year the depth of its occurrence is constantly changing. And many experts are already openly talking about irreversible climate changes on the planet. It is clear that waterproofing the foundation again for an already built and inhabited house (and this inevitably entails partial “destruction” of the adjacent territory) is an extremely complex and expensive issue. Yes, and it will take a lot of time.

• At what depth are the subsoil layers located? This must be determined if the house design includes a basement.
• Subsurface fluid pressure. According to this criterion, the layers are divided into 4 types. Moreover, in the same place you can simultaneously encounter, for example, both “suspended” waters and “pressure” ones. That is why experts advise not to do “like everyone else” when building a house, but to conduct a geodetic survey of a specific site.
• Foundation waterproofing largely depends on soil characteristics, on which the structure is being erected. After all, there are soils that are both permeable (for example, sandstone) and not. In the latter case, the liquid looks for “easier” paths and often moves towards the foundation. Therefore, the waterproofing layer must be more “powerful”. Accordingly, the choice of materials is made taking into account these specifics. In addition, any liquid may contain aggressive components.
• Foundation type. Each has its own characteristics, both in the nature of the work and in the materials. It is clear that if the foundation is piled, then the use of rolled “insulators” is excluded. At the same time, they are perfect for the tape type.
• Regardless of the construction conditions, foundation waterproofing is done both from the outside and from the inside. Moreover, both layers are basic, and it is unacceptable to equip only one.

It should be noted that the components of comprehensive foundation waterproofing include measures such as removal of excess water (drainage) and the installation of a reliable blind area, which serves to protect the foundation of the house from water in the form of precipitation (rain, snow). And, of course, the optimal choice of the type of insulating materials used, as already mentioned.

Waterproofing foundations in swampy areas

In individual construction, the strip type of building foundation is most often used. However, it is not suitable for swampy soil. Such soil is unstable because it is saturated with moisture and its structure is heterogeneous. Underground water layers come quite close to the surface, and it is extremely difficult to make the necessary calculations of loads. Construction under such conditions is considered risky. But sometimes there is simply no choice.

It is worth noting right away that waterproofing a foundation in marshy areas is expensive. The method of protecting the foundation depends on what type of foundation is chosen for the construction of the house. In practice, shallow, pile (bored) or slab foundations are used. But regardless of this, it is imperative that drainage system.

Its purpose is to drain water in the ground away from the building. Without this natural drainage of the area any other measures to protect against moisture cannot be considered effective. Experts recommend installing the foundation only after drainage has been organized. It is necessary to understand that waterproofing the foundation in swampy areas has a number of features. And first of all, this concerns the issue of laying the foundation.

Processing shallow-depth is not much different from the method of finishing strip. However, to protect the insulating layer, it is necessary to install a protective covering (wall).

For a slab pit, the pit is made shallow. Its bottom should be compacted as tightly as possible. If possible, it is advisable to use construction equipment (skating rink). The goal is to minimize subsequent soil shrinkage. Coarse sand and gravel are used as backfill. If possible, clay should also be laid. This layer is filled with concrete mortar.

The resulting “pillow” will become natural barrier in the path of liquids, an integral part of foundation waterproofing in marshy areas. Given the difficult conditions, it is advisable to use waterproof reinforced concrete slabs under the foundation of the house. Treatment can also be carried out at the construction site. To do this, they are impregnated with special water-repellent compounds. Additionally, all sides are treated with mastic, on a layer of which roll material (roofing felt, roofing felt, film) is applied.

In particularly difficult cases, a bored foundation is made. Its construction involves the installation of concrete supports in prepared wells. For this, formwork is made. It is at this stage that all activities are carried out. In this case, waterproofing the foundation in swampy areas involves special treatment of asbestos-cement (or other waterproof) pipes that serve as formwork. Methods such as impregnation and surface treatment with mastics are suitable.

Such insulation is not afraid of mechanical loads, since the “shape” of the formwork is supported by the concrete pouring and the reinforcement bars used. In addition, sealing the lower parts of the pipes is recommended. However, it is possible to increase the effectiveness of foundation waterproofing in swampy areas by carrying out a number of additional measures.

Firstly, the correct choice of concrete mortar composition (grade of cement + chemical additives to increase moisture resistance). However, this issue requires a professional approach.

Secondly, additional treatment of the well bottom. Backfilling is done with sand, clay, gravel.

We should not forget that an integral part of such work is the installation of horizontal waterproofing. Regardless of the type of foundation.

Do-it-yourself waterproofing of a strip foundation

This type of “base” of a structure is most often used in individual construction, since it is easy to install independently. Secondly, such a foundation presupposes the presence of a basement in the house, which is important for a private developer. Thirdly, it is able to withstand a fairly large load and can be used on any type of soil.

The fact that any structure needs protection from moisture is clear to everyone. Especially its lower part, which is in direct contact with the soil. Waterproofing strip foundation can be produced in any way, using various materials. The choice of the optimal option is largely determined by the financial capabilities of the owner. Let's consider the most economical one.

The presence of a basement places increased demands on the quality of events. When determining a particular type of work, one should focus on the climatic conditions in the region (precipitation intensity), soil characteristics and the depth of underground aquifers.

Waterproofing a strip foundation is a set of measures. It includes work such as protecting its sole, the outer part, as well as the floor and walls of the basement from the inside. You need to start building a house with the proper arrangement of the foundation pit. It is advisable to lay out its bottom with a layer of clay and compact and level it thoroughly. It will create a kind of barrier to the path of liquids coming from the ground. Rolled material (roofing felt, film) should be placed under the base of the foundation.

The outside walls should be more securely protected. After all, they are influenced groundwater pressure, seasonal soil displacements. Consequently, mechanical damage to the waterproofing of the strip foundation is likely. Therefore, it is made in several layers. First, mastic (bitumen) is coated, after which roll material (roofing felt, film) is glued. Installation is carried out so that there are no breaks or gaps in the protective layer (overlapping).

This layer also needs to be protected. Indeed, in addition to the reasons already indicated, it can be damaged by construction waste and stones at the time of filling the trench. Protection can be provided in different ways: construction of a brick wall, laying insulating material. To waterproof a strip foundation, you can also use the plastering method. This coating does not require additional protection.

When processing internal surfaces, the same methods are used. The choice of materials depends on the further design of the basement. We should not forget about the places where various utilities (pipes, cables) enter the building. The inlet channels are carefully sealed, for which it is convenient to use mastics and liquid glass.

Ideally, the protective layer is continuous. Essentially, it is a “bag” that protects the house from water penetration.

Waterproofing of strip foundations must be accompanied by additional measures to forced drainage of the site developments. For this purpose, a drainage system is installed to remove moisture from the base of the building. It consists of specially equipped channels that are installed around the entire perimeter of the building. In addition, it is necessary to correctly arrange a spillway. In some cases, it is advisable to use it to drain the area. drainage wells.

And we should not forget about the importance of the blind area. Properly and efficiently constructed, it will significantly reduce the influence of water on the underground part of the structure.

Operating principle of penetrating waterproofing

The best way to ensure reliable protection of the concrete foundation of a house from the destructive effects of moisture is penetrating waterproofing of the foundation. In order to correctly assess the scope of work, it is necessary to first analyze the level and volume of groundwater, the degree of its impact on the underground structures of the building. In addition, the amount of work on waterproofing is influenced by the presence or absence of basements in the house. If the house does not have a basement, horizontal waterproofing of the foundation will help protect against moisture; if there is a basement, the best option would be a combination of vertical and horizontal protection and the installation of a drainage system.

Before you start working, you need to mix the dry ingredients with water and stir well. The resulting solution should be used to treat the concrete surfaces of the base. Once in the pores of concrete, the active substances contained in the penetrating waterproofing of the foundation react, forming water-insoluble crystals. The crystals gradually displace water from the concrete and reliably clog capillaries, pores and microcracks. Crystal growth occurs simultaneously in all directions - both towards the water flow and in the opposite direction. As a result of treatment with penetrating compounds, the concrete surface acquires a more compacted structure and becomes impermeable to moisture. As soon as the humidity level decreases, crystal growth slows down; when water is exposed to the surface, growth resumes.

Penetrating waterproofing of the foundation ensures the advancement of chemically active components into the thickness of concrete by tens of centimeters. When filling microcracks and capillaries with a diameter of up to 0.4 mm, the water resistance of the concrete base increases by 2-4 steps. As a result, the penetrating waterproofing of the foundation becomes an integral part of the foundation, forming waterproof concrete.

Before starting to treat the foundation with penetrating compounds, the surface should be cleaned of dust, dirt, debris, oil stains, etc. You can open the capillaries on a polished concrete surface by treating it with a sandblasting tool and rinsing it with a solution of hydrochloric acid in a ratio of 1:10. If you find traces of mold on the surface of the base of the house, thoroughly clean it and treat it with an antiseptic composition. In places where materials meet, grooves are punched, the depth of which should be 2.5 cm. If there are cracks on the surface, they should be widened by 25 mm in depth and 20 mm in width. Where communications pass through, the junction points should be sealed.

The next important step is moistening the concrete. The growth of crystals will depend on how well the surface is moistened.

Penetrating type foundation waterproofing is carried out using a spatula, spray gun or brush.

Advantages of using waterproof penetrating compounds:

• the ability to process both underground and above-ground parts of the building;
• ease of use,
• possibility of processing freshly poured and old concrete,
• the penetrating composition forms a single whole with the foundation, therefore it is not afraid of mechanical damage and does not peel off,
• Possibility of use for processing external and internal walls,
• working with wet foundations,
• surface treatment regardless of the direction of groundwater pressure.

Penetrating foundation waterproofing is not used on foundations made of foam and aerated concrete due to the significant pore size.

Coating protection for foundations

The cost of constructing a foundation is on average 15% of the total cost of the building, and coating the foundation waterproofing is only 1-2%. However, poor quality waterproofing or its complete absence may lead to the investment of much larger sums in the future.

Despite the fact that, due to their excellent load-bearing capacity and affordability, the popularity of block foundations is growing, from the point of view of waterproofing, a monolithic foundation is more profitable. It does not require additional sealing of joining seams. Coating waterproofing of the foundation creates a protective film that prevents moisture from entering and destroying the thickness of the foundation.

Waterproofing the foundation of a house of the coating type can be single- or multi-layered and have a thickness of up to several centimeters. With its help, you can reliably protect the structure from the action of groundwater. If you apply the composition to the inner surface of the walls, it will also prevent the penetration of capillary moisture.

Materials for coating waterproofing

These can be either cement-based compositions or bituminous materials. The most popular are bitumen, bitumen-polymer and bitumen-rubber mixtures.

Mastic for waterproofing the foundation should take into account factors such as:

• budget for work to protect the building from moisture;
• ambient temperature;
• possible loads on the treated surfaces during operation;
• place of implementation - coating waterproofing of the foundation is carried out on the external or internal planes of the foundation;
• area of ​​processed surface, etc.

Having decided on these points, you can choose the right material and even save money without sacrificing quality.

The most ancient and cost-effective method of waterproofing is the use of hot bitumen. In this case, a prerequisite is the use of heating equipment, with the help of which the mastic acquires a liquid consistency. You can work with hot bitumen even at sub-zero temperatures.

It is also possible to use bitumen compositions based on organic solvents. Today this is one of the most common methods of foundation waterproofing. Depending on the budget of the event, you can choose either simple bitumen mastic or bitumen compositions containing polymer and latex additives. They give the waterproofing material elasticity, expand the temperature range of application, and increase adhesion. Cold bitumen waterproofing of foundations can also be carried out at sub-zero air temperatures.

Mastics based on organic solvents are not recommended for internal waterproofing of basement walls, cellars, as this may not be safe. In such cases, it is better to give preference to water-based formulations. The only disadvantage of using these materials is the reduction in temperature range. They cannot be used at temperatures below +5°C.

If large areas are to be waterproofed, the best choice would be liquid rubber (bitumen-latex emulsions).

Stages of waterproofing work with bitumen compounds:

• surface preparation (cleaning from dust, corrosion, oil, salt and other stains; filling cracks with cement-sand mortar);
• priming the foundation with more liquid waterproofing compounds;
• applying coating waterproofing in 2-4 layers;
• surface drying;
• backfilling soil or carrying out decorative finishing.

Technology for applying cement-polymer coating waterproofing:

• cleaning and moistening the foundation surface;
• mixing the components of the waterproofing composition until homogeneous;
• applying the mixture in several passes. The time interval between application of layers is 12 hours or more.
• carrying out measures to protect waterproofing from precipitation over the next 24 hours.

Foundation waterproofing should be taken with full responsibility. Its durability and strength depend on how thoroughly the foundation of the house is protected from moisture.

What is horizontal waterproofing

If you refuse to waterproof the foundation, you risk facing the problem of dampness and mold in the house in the near future. Moreover, moisture will not only threaten the integrity and appearance of the decoration of premises and furniture, but can also cause destruction of the foundation. The result will be subsidence of the house, distortion of window and door structures, and the appearance of cracks in load-bearing walls.

Vertical and horizontal waterproofing of the foundation will help you prevent all these troubles.

Let's take a closer look at the second type. Such protection of the foundation of a building from moisture requires fewer measures, is easier to implement and is more affordable in economic terms than waterproofing a vertical foundation. When laying the foundation of a house, experts recommend using a combination of these two types. If the house does not have basements, only horizontal waterproofing of the foundation can be used.

However, if gross violations were committed during horizontal protection against moisture, correcting them will be very expensive or even impossible.

The following can be used as waterproofing materials: roofing felt, hydrostekloizol, Rubitex, glass elast, stekloizol, hydrostekloizol, profikorm and other self-adhesive and sprayed types of waterproofing.

Roll foundation waterproofing in the absence of a basement is carried out in several layers (2 or more) slightly above the blind area of ​​the house along the foundation. When choosing an insulating material, give preference to one that is not susceptible to rotting. Modern rolled materials have increased resistance to ruptures, the risk of which arises when the base of the structure is deformed.

Coating horizontal waterproofing of the foundation is made using bitumen and rubbers. Bitumen-containing materials may also contain cement, which increases adhesion to the base, and plasticizing additives, which help increase the foundation’s resistance to cracking under dynamic and static loads. Polymer compositions make it possible to achieve high hydrophobic properties and durability of the material.

Impregnating horizontal foundation waterproofing has a penetrating effect and is capable of blocking capillary channels in concrete foundations, forming thread-like crystals in them. The only drawback of using this type of waterproofing is its low ductility, which makes it possible for the waterproofing layer to be destroyed during significant vibrations.

The installation of installed waterproofing involves the use of mats made of bentonite clay. The mats consist of compacted clay and self-destructive layers of cardboard and geotextiles. This type of hydrobarrier will reliably protect the house from capillary and pressure moisture.

Correcting installation errors of horizontal waterproofing

In the case when the foundation was not insulated from moisture on time, there are 3 ways to carry it out “late”:

• trimming walls with further laying of bitumen mass or roofing felt in the resulting holes;
• raising the foundation and laying a bitumen layer or roofing material;
• thermal injection or crystal injection.

The first two options will require a significant investment of effort and time, but will be cheaper than injection. Crystal injection involves creating holes at the junction of the base and walls, into which a mixture of silicate activators, water and cement is subsequently poured. As a result of the reaction, a mineral mass is formed, which acts as a water barrier. Thermal injection involves pumping hot air into the hole, while the walls are heated to a temperature of 30-40°C.

The choice of the most suitable method of foundation waterproofing primarily depends on the size of the budget and the time frame for the operation.

Bituminous foundation waterproofing

Not only precipitation flows, but also groundwater have a negative impact on the foundation of a house. Effective protection of the building can be provided by bitumen waterproofing of the foundation, as well as a comprehensive drainage system. Drainage allows excess water to be removed from the building, and a hydraulic barrier will prevent moisture from entering the supporting structure, basements, and cellars. If the groundwater in the area is high and the soil filtration coefficient is low, it is recommended to use a combination of the above measures.

Bitumen waterproofing of the foundation is one of the cheapest methods of coating protection. It is produced using mixtures that include organic and inorganic substances, high molecular weight carbon-containing components. Bituminous materials are durable, elastic, have high waterproofing properties and are affordable. They are used for treating brickwork, concrete, plastered surfaces, etc. Bituminous foundation waterproofing can withstand temperature changes and the aggressive effects of groundwater. Bitumen mixtures are endowed with frost resistance and fire-resistant properties special additives – modifiers. Every year, coating waterproofing of foundations, blind areas, and roofs is becoming more and more popular. Moreover, when choosing materials, home owners increasingly prefer bitumen-polymer and bitumen-rubber mastics. They are known for their durability, while completely devoid of the disadvantages of pure bitumen. Bitumen compounds are applied using a spatula, roller, trowel or sprayer.

Bitumen waterproofing – hot application technology:

At the preparatory stage it is carried out cleaning the foundation surface remove dust and dirt using a wire brush. Potholes and holes in the base are plastered and a layer of primer is applied. After 1-2 hours the mastic itself is applied. The composition should first be heated in a steam or water bath. During heating, the mastic should be stirred continuously. When applying the composition, carefully ensure that there are no unpainted areas left. After the first layer has dried, it is recommended to apply another layer. The thickness of each of them should be no more than 1 cm. Bitumen waterproofing of the foundation helps reliably protect underground parts of the building from the destructive effects of water.

Cold method of bitumen waterproofing

Cold mastics do not require preheating. Bitumen-polymer and bitumen-rubber mastics require careful preparation of the base. The foundation surface must be clean, dry and free of grease. If we are talking about liquid rubber, it is better to round and trim the edges of the foundation. Waterproofing the foundation of a house using bitumen-latex and bitumen-emulsion mastics is less demanding on the quality of foundation preparation. Bitumen-polymer mastics should be applied in two or more layers. Each subsequent layer of material should be applied only after the previous one has hardened. If you ignore this requirement, there will be a risk of insulation peeling, and the adhesion of the mastic layer to the foundation surface will not be fully ensured. If the treated surface stopped sticking, we can assume that the waterproofing has dried completely.

For many years, bitumen waterproofing of the foundation has been one of the most common and affordable methods of protecting a structure from the penetration of capillary moisture. If your site has a hydrostatic head of up to 2 m, you can use bitumen mastics; if the pressure is 5 m or higher, give preference to bitumen-polymer compositions.

Rolled foundation waterproofing

Often, houses are built in areas with high groundwater levels. If this situation is familiar, and the groundwater level is at the level of the basement floor, roll foundation waterproofing will help you. With its help, you can reliably protect the structure from the destructive effects of moisture and prevent flooding of basements and cellars.

The advent of waterproof mastics formed the basis for the production of film and roll materials, the use of which greatly simplifies the process of insulating the foundation of a house from moisture and significantly reduces the time of the procedure.

Modern foundation waterproofing roll or as it is also called pasting and the use of soft sheet bitumen, polymer and polymer-bitumen materials helps prevent moisture from seeping into the room. The number of insulation layers is determined by the magnitude of the hydrostatic head and the requirements for dryness of the structure. As a rule, roll waterproofing of foundations is carried out in two layers and is placed on the hydrostatic pressure side.

If there is insignificant groundwater pressure in your area, expansion joints structures can be covered with waterproofing layers; if the gyrostatic pressure is large, use compensators, inert to the action of an aqueous environment, in some cases metal sheets can be used. In conditions where there is a highly aggressive water environment on the site, the foundation waterproofing device must use inert materials, and under the base of the house it is necessary to arrange crushed stone filling and fill it with hot bitumen solution.

Considering the fact that waterproofing the foundation with roll materials has increased requirements for strength and durability, material manufacturers modify waterproofing products using special additives of active polypropylene and styrene-butadiene-styrene. This helps to increase the resistance of materials to microorganisms, increase elasticity, strength and durability. Excellent examples of modern waterproofing materials are stekloizol, hydrostekloizol, hydroizol, stekloelast etc.

The most modern today is roll foundation waterproofing using polymers– films made of polyvinyl chloride, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, thermoplastic membranes, vulcanized rubber membranes, films made of chlorinated polyethylene, self-adhesive polyethylene films. All of them have a high degree of waterproofing, strength, and durability. However, a low degree of vapor permeability can cause them to tear off from the base under the influence of steam. Therefore, when laying these materials, special primers are used or a ventilation layer is created. Anti-condensation and vapor-permeable propylene and polyethylene membranes, which are gaining popularity every year, are completely free of this drawback.

Waterproofing with cement

Work on waterproofing any structures is carried out without fail, regardless of what the structure is and what its purpose is. The negative impact of moisture on any construction and finishing materials has been known for a long time. It should also be taken into account that aggressive chemicals are also present in dissolved form in water. The correct choice of insulating material and work technology plays a decisive role in ensuring high-quality protection against liquids.

As experts note, cement waterproofing is becoming increasingly popular. However, it is often mistaken for simple plastering of surfaces with specially prepared products. In fact, this is a more comprehensive concept. This name refers to any composition that contains cement and is used to treat surfaces to protect them from liquids. At the same time, depending on the purpose of the product, cement plays an appropriate role in it.

For the construction of cement waterproofing, compounds are used that are sold in the form of dry mixtures. There are two types of them. One group is a mixture of sand and cement, which contains a variety of additives. It is the percentage of all components that determines the specific characteristics of the composition. Such products are used on surfaces that have sufficient rigidity and strength.

You need to understand that when cement and sand harden a coating layer is formed, which does not differ in elasticity and tensile strength. The use of such materials has its limitations. For example, they are not recommended for areas where there is a high level of seismic hazard. After all, any movement of the soil during shocks will inevitably lead to cracking of the protective layer.

Another group of materials for cement waterproofing differs from those described above in that they contain additives polymers. These compounds have better characteristics. Their main advantage is that they are elastic. Even if a crack appears on the surface treated with them, the insulation layer will remain continuous, thereby ensuring reliable sealing. Such compositions have increased resistance to low temperatures and aggressive environments.

In any area, under the surface of the earth there are, as a rule, several layers of water. They have different configurations and characteristics. In particular, pressure. Cement waterproofing in this sense is universal. It can be used for both internal and external surface finishing. Possessing high vapor permeability, it is excellent for arranging a foundation, as it provides protection not only under pressure, but also “pull-off”.

It is most advisable to use this type of insulation for finishing elements of various structures located underground. For example, foundations, sewer septic tanks, tanks, swimming pools, pipeline sections, wells and much more. Such compositions are also used for furnishing premises. with excess humidity(for example, saunas and baths, baths and showers, laundries).

It remains to add that it is recommended to process an area of ​​no more than 100 m2 manually. To finish larger surfaces, special “cement” guns are used. At the same time, it must be remembered that better quality This results in a layer laid on a damp surface.

As already indicated, mixtures are different. When choosing, be sure to read the instructions for use.

Do-it-yourself foundation waterproofing - which is better, penetrating, coating or bitumen?

How to waterproof a foundation with your own hands. What materials can be used for waterproofing

Carrying out waterproofing for the foundation is possible only taking into account several factors, such as: type of soil, groundwater level, climatic conditions, type of foundation. You can do without waterproofing in hot regions with minimal precipitation and low humidity, as well as when there is a deep passage of groundwater. In other cases, waterproofing is necessary for any structure. Read more about what foundation waterproofing is, types of waterproofing, and methods of application in our article.

External waterproofing of the basement

How does moisture affect the foundation?

Water damages the integrity of the foundation in at least two ways.

First of all, this is the washing out of concrete, the appearance of roughness and potholes on its surface.

No less dangerous is the icing of water that has entered the pores of concrete. When water freezes, it tends to expand in volume rather than contract. Penetrating inside the foundation structure, when frozen, it destroys it inside, forming cracks and crevices. Therefore, during construction, waterproofing of the foundation should be carried out during the construction process.

Foundation destruction due to lack of waterproofing

Why waterproofing?

In the basement of a building without good waterproofing, flooding and leaks on the floor, and mold on the walls will certainly appear. It is unacceptable to save food or household items in such a house. It is important to select high-quality materials for waterproofing and follow foundation construction technology to protect the house from the destructive effects of moisture.

Waterproofing performs important tasks:

strengthens the foundation and extends the service life;

prevents distortion of the walls of the house and the formation of cracks;

prevents leakage of walls and the presence of water in basements, mold formation; protects from natural destroyers.

Types of moisture insulation

It is divided into the following types:

horizontal;

vertical;

blind area device.

In some cases, all means of protection are used at once.

Horizontal waterproofing

It is used to prevent moisture from moving from one level to another. Intended for all types of foundations: strip, slab, individual supports.

Horizontal insulation - most often used to protect the walls of a house

Such protection is the treatment of the walls of a ready-made foundation. Vertical waterproofing is designed to protect the base of the structure from the influence of surface water. It is only necessary for strip and column supports of the structure.

Vertical waterproofing directly protects the foundation

On our website you can find contacts of construction companies that offer foundation design and repair services. You can communicate directly with representatives by visiting the “Low-Rise Country” exhibition of houses.

This type of protection protects the foundation from the effects of precipitation and melted snow in the spring. In this case, the width of the structure plays an important role. If the width is insufficient, moisture will be carried away a short distance and will be able to reach the foundation.

The following means are used for its construction:

asphalt concrete;

• sidewalk tile;

• waterproof membranes.

The method of constructing the blind area is selected taking into account the architectural properties and price of materials. The most budget-friendly option for a blind area would be to build it from concrete or asphalt. This method does not add decorativeness, but protects the foundation of the building without significant financial costs and labor costs. The construction of a blind area made of concrete or asphalt is widespread in the large-scale construction of high-rise residential buildings and collective buildings.

The blind area prevents moisture from draining from the walls under the foundation

General technical rules

There are a number of technical requirements for each insulation method.

It is imperative to take into account the height of surface water.

Consider the purpose and operating conditions of the facility.

Consider the possibility of floods or heavy precipitation.

Take into account the properties of the soil during frosts.

The optimal method of protecting a strip foundation should combine vertical waterproofing in combination with horizontal type protection.

Insulation by method of application

Vertical and horizontal insulation according to the method of application can be divided into the following types:

pasting;

plastering;

painting;

mounted;

injection.

Let's look at these methods in more detail.

Pasting

Pasted insulation from moisture is based on the use of roll products based on bitumen binder. Fused or adhesive material is used to waterproof the foundation. This method involves applying a heated layer of glue and gluing it to the surface. To carry out such protection without using a layer of glue, you will need to use bitumen mastic instead of fastening.

Pasted waterproofing is most often applied using the “hot” method.

Pasting agents include:

roofing felt is the most popular method;

roofing felt, which is still used given its cheapness, but should not be used as protection for the main structures of buildings;

glassine - thick cardboard impregnated with bitumen binder;

polymer materials with bitumen impregnation.

Plastering

This waterproofing is of the coating type.

Now there are many means of protecting against moisture - these are solutions that, in addition to asphalt or cement with sand, contain additives that impart beneficial properties.

The most common among them: liquid glass, sodium aluminate, ceresite.

Plaster insulation is “smeared” onto the foundation

Painting room

Painted waterproofing can be hot or cold and involves applying a complex layer 1-1 mm thick of protective agents. The most suitable among them are hot polymer-bitumen and cold epoxy-rubber coatings. This foundation waterproofing device is widely used to protect against capillary moisture.

Painted insulation is more liquid than plaster insulation

Mountable

For installed waterproofing, various fiberglass plastics, rigid polyvinyl chloride, and prefabricated reinforced concrete products are used. The disadvantage is the high cost and laboriousness of the preparatory work. Such insulation is used when the use of conventional waterproofing is impossible.

Mounted roll waterproofing of the foundation

Injection

This method of waterproofing is based on the process of creating a membrane between a layer of wet soil and the foundation. The method involves introducing a hydrophobic gel into the structure, which, when hardened, closes all pores, preventing water from penetrating.

What is injection waterproofing and how is it used for restoration work, see the video:

What influences the installation of waterproofing

The foundation serves as the foundation of any home. The service life of the building as a whole depends on its construction. Before starting, you should outline the complex of waterproofing work to be carried out.

The decision may be influenced by the following factors: the height of groundwater flow, the forces of frosty increase in soil volume, the circumstances of the building’s operation, soil heterogeneity.

Types of foundation installation

With the strip type, the foundation is built in the form of a strip at a certain depth. The canvas rests on foundation slabs, which allows the load to be evenly distributed over the entire surface.

Pile is the most budget-friendly and simplest type of foundation, in which the consumption of materials is minimal. It consists of separate pillars and is used in the construction of buildings that do not need continuous strip support. These are lightweight houses, the structure of which contains a load-bearing lower beam and structures, and the walls consist of horizontal large-sized elements.

A slab foundation is the foundation of a building in the form of a flat reinforced concrete slab. For a foundation slab, there is no need to dig a deep pit; you just need to remove the top layer of soil and fill it with crushed stone or gravel to protect the foundation slab from capillary moisture.

Surface water level

Let's look at how to do waterproofing at a given water level. If the height of surface water below the base of the foundation is more than 1 meter, you can get by with vertical coating protection and horizontal protection with roofing felt. The location of surface water close to the foundation, but below the height of the basement floor, requires an extended range of work. The horizontal protection is laid in 2 layers and coated with bitumen mastic. For vertical waterproofing, both the pasting and coating methods are used. All concrete devices are treated with agents that prevent the penetration of capillary moisture.

If the location of groundwater is higher than the foundation or basement floor, a drainage system should be added to the above methods. The cost of these works depends on its size, quantity and type of means used.

House foundation drainage

The presence of excess moisture in the soil is a difficult but solvable issue for a plot of land. In this case, it is necessary not only to carry out waterproofing, but also to drain this area.

Experts recommend waterproofing first when installing the foundation. One of the most used methods is the use of waterproofing and water-repellent components for concrete mortar. After all, these components not only prevent the effects of moisture, but also speed up the hardening of the mixture, strengthen the foundation and increase its frost resistance. At the same time, you can add components that simultaneously enhance both hydro and thermal insulation.

How to do waterproofing, see the following video:

How to protect an already poured foundation

If waterproofing was not carried out during construction, no problem. There are methods of protection against moisture for the finished building. In this case, pasting waterproof sheets or rolls made of bitumen-polymer material are used. Today this work is done using self-adhesive materials. Coating insulation - cement, bitumen and polymer solutions, mastics or emulsions - for waterproofing the foundation, these materials are used both during construction and to correct and eliminate cracks or chips that have appeared in the foundation.

Trust the experts

As practice shows, errors in waterproofing are difficult and expensive to correct during operation, therefore, for safety, you should contact specialists at the construction stage. It is better to do waterproofing when erecting a building, because repairing the foundation in the future will be more expensive and require more labor than erecting a house. Experts will analyze the surface of the building site and recommend the most suitable type of foundation. They will competently and quickly calculate its installation, taking into account ventilation, sewerage and all utility networks. Specialists from construction companies will carry out high-quality construction of the foundation, organization of waterproofing, and insulation of the structure.

The foundation is an important component of any structure, the quality and stability of which determines the durability of the building as a whole. Why use insulation? The foundation is exposed to many negative factors - one of them is moisture, which destroys the structure. Do-it-yourself foundation waterproofing, done correctly using technology, will help you cope with this trouble.

There are two types of moisture that affect the base:

• melt water and precipitation entering the ground from the outside;
• bottom waters, their level is variable, depending on the season.

Which waterproofing to choose for the foundation? The base is selected based on the type of base and material; slab and column supports are protected from moisture in different ways.

It acts on the base in several ways:

• if there are aggressive components in the bottom or rain moisture, then potholes and defects caused by the leaching of solid particles may appear in the base body;
• is destroyed by freezing of moisture that has penetrated into the base material. The only element in nature that expands when exposed to sub-zero temperatures is water. Penetrating into micropores, it puts a strong load on the base from the inside, resulting in cracks, crevices, and breaks;
• washing away the soil with water leads to distortion and subsidence of the structure, which can lead to the destruction of walls.

Now it becomes clear why waterproofing the base is needed. For this reason, the base must be insulated as soon as the structure is ready.

Types of insulation used

Three groups of arrangement for protecting the constructed foundation from groundwater can be distinguished:

• horizontal waterproofing of the foundation inside the house;
• creating a blind area.

Foundation waterproofing materials for construction are different. There are such foundations that several types of protection are used in combination to protect them:

• Cut-off foundation waterproofing is used for foundations on pillars and strip foundations.
• Horizontal foundation waterproofing – suitable for all types of foundations. With its help, the influence of moisture in the interlevel space is limited. This insulation is made from different materials, depending on the construction budget.
• The blind area is constructed to protect the base from rain or melt water. It is advisable to make the structure wide enough, otherwise moisture will penetrate to the base and put additional stress on other types of insulation.

Horizontal and vertical waterproofing

These two types of foundation protection should be examined separately; the materials for waterproofing the foundation are very different from those used in the construction of the blind area.

Insulation of the buried part of the support is carried out by several types of protection:

• by coating;
• pasting;
• plastering;
• penetrating compounds;
• performed by installation;
• structural;

You need to understand which foundation waterproofing materials to use for a certain type of foundation and how horizontal foundation waterproofing is constructed.

Coating method in isolation

Coating waterproofing of the foundation is carried out with bitumen-based mastics. Two-component and one-component compositions are used to coat part of the base located in the ground and the walls of the building. In addition, many new, modern and high-quality insulating materials have recently appeared:

• polymer-based and bitumen-polymer resins;
• bitumen and rubber mastics.

Thanks to additives in bitumen, the material tolerates low temperatures well and does not crack like regular bitumen when frozen. The disadvantage of modern materials is their high cost, so private developers use the foundations of the house as insulation.

Pasting

How to waterproof a foundation using adhesive compounds? A popular and frequently used type of protection is the use of various materials in rolls mounted on a binder layer of bitumen, for example hydroglass insulation. The adhesive protection can be installed in two ways – gluing or fusing.

Welded waterproofing involves the use of a gas burner, with which the top layer will be heated to a viscous state, after which the material is glued to the base plane. If there is no adhesive base on the roll insulation, then mastic is used as an external adhesive. It is necessary to choose the right material.

Before installing insulation, the surface is primed.

Pasting materials are:

• Roofing felt is considered an obsolete insulation material, but is still widely used. Due to its low cost and the ability to quickly recover if damaged. This is cardboard, the surface of which is treated with bitumen;
• glassine is a good waterproofing material based on thick construction cardboard, treated on both sides with bitumen. This cannot be said to be reliable insulation, but the cost of roll coating allows you to save;
• roofing felt is a leader among insulating materials, good insulating characteristics and an affordable price make the material in demand among developers. But it is worth noting that the service life is short;
• materials based on polymers, with bitumen impregnation, the base of which is fiberglass or polyester. There are several common insulation options: “Gidrostekloizol”, “Linocom”, “Tekhnokol”, “Bikrost” and so on.

The most reliable options for foundation waterproofing are the materials listed in the last list, but often their use entails additional costs. Hydroglass insulation is especially in demand, its technical characteristics and the latest production technologies allow you to insulate the foundation inside an old house for a period of 30 years.

But it is worth noting that these materials last quite a long time, which allows you to save on the frequency of repairs. Another positive point is the ability to use hydroglass insulation for any building materials:

• metal;
• concrete;
• tree;
• asphalt concrete;
• hydrostekloizol is used for repeated and restoration of waterproofing without dismantling the old coating.

Plaster protection

Waterproofing the foundation with your own hands on piles using plastering or painting is impractical and unreliable. Such insulation lasts only five years, after which repair work will have to be carried out.

Penetrating insulation

An excellent way to treat the base to protect the base from moisture, penetrating foundation waterproofing can clog all the pores of concrete, while increasing the resistance of the material to a humid environment. Typically, this protection is used in combination with other types of insulation - pasted or coated. Excavation was previously used as penetrating waterproofing.

The penetration depth of insulation reaches 25 cm, but more expensive materials are buried a meter deep. The disadvantage of this method is that it is limited in use - it is only suitable for concrete foundations.

There are the most popular compositions used to treat foundations for waterproofing:

• "Penecritus";
• "Penaplag";
• "Hydrohit";
• "Penotron".

This insulation is most effective on new buildings, since the surface must be clean, free of grease and smooth.

Recently, many construction companies have been offering a service such as foundation waterproofing with polyurea. This innovation in the arrangement of pole insulation is produced by spraying and guarantees high-quality protection.

Mounted insulation

This insulation method is used when the bottom water level is high and puts a lot of pressure on the foundation. Equipped on strip-type foundations with. For mounted protection, various materials are used, for example, sheet steel, which is used to cover the base from the inside. The metal should be 6 mm thick. This method is used very rarely due to its high cost.

Brickwork is erected on the outside along the perimeter of the foundation.

It is erected after insulation work has been carried out using coating or pasting methods. In this situation, the waterproofing between the foundation and the masonry will be protected from mechanical damage.

Structural waterproofing of a foundation slab involves adding special insulating additives directly into the concrete. It is used very rarely due to its high cost, so it is better to choose more economical materials.

Injection insulation

This method is used for injecting foundations that are in operation when repairs to foundation waterproofing are needed. This technology helps protect the base from moisture without developing the soil around the perimeter. Injectors are connected to the base and are capable of delivering insulating material.

The following compositions are used:

• resin;
• rubber;
• foam;
• acrylate gel;
• polymers;
• cement mortars.

This method involves the use of special equipment and a professional approach, so it is impossible to perform injection isolation with your own hands. But at the same time, you can easily waterproof the existing foundation of an old house.

Arrangement of the blind area

When using external waterproofing to protect the base, the following materials are used:

• sidewalk tile;
• concrete;
• diffusion membrane for waterproofing the foundation;
• asphalt concrete.

The choice of material for arranging a blind area depends on the foundation, availability of material, financial capabilities, preferences of the owners and the design of the building. If we are talking about savings, then the best option would be to lay asphalt or concrete. Typically, this option is used to protect foundations in apartment buildings, industrial facilities and administrative buildings.

Builders recommend using a waterproofing membrane for the foundation for private houses, as it is the most reliable protection option.

Technological features of waterproofing different types of foundations

Different types of building foundations require separate types of insulation. Before pouring, you need to determine what measures to take for high-quality waterproofing.

Strip base insulation

For prefabricated and monolithic options, waterproofing strip foundations has distinctive features. The prefabricated type of base requires the following steps:

• waterproofing industrial foundation slabs and concrete basement walls require the installation of a high-quality, reinforced seam connection;
• waterproofing of foundation walls with rolled material is laid from the first seam located at the lower level of the basement flooring;
• at the junctions of the foundation structure and walls, along the edge of the foundation, insulating material is installed;
• external waterproofing of the foundation of the recessed part is carried out vertically;
• installation of blind area.

Bitumen waterproofing of the foundation is not used to isolate seams, as it can lead to displacement of the structural elements of the foundation. In this case, you need to install a full-fledged, thickened concrete joint.

The foundation edge is insulated to completely protect the base material from destruction under the influence of moisture. The foundation waterproofing is glued, made with rolled materials, glued type.

Vertical waterproofing of the new strip foundation is carried out along the outer perimeter of the building, this helps protect not only the support structure, but also the interior of the basement.

Coating and pasting waterproofing of the foundation can be used. The inner side is isolated when finishing work is carried out; it is permissible to use injection and penetrating types of protection.

To waterproof a monolithic tape, the following measures are required:

• vertical protection;
• base edge insulation;
• arrangement of the blind area.

The sequence of work is carried out in the same order as when protecting a prefabricated type of base.

Pile and column base - waterproofing

These types of bases do not require complex insulation from the influences of a humid environment. The main work will consist only of measures to protect the edge of the foundation with a priming solution. The main attention should be paid to the grillage; the location of the waterproofing depends on the material of its manufacture.

If the grillage and supports are monolithic, then the protection is laid at the points of contact between the walls and the base. If a basement is equipped, it is waterproofed from the outside and inside from groundwater.

When using a screw base, on the pillars of which the first row of a wooden house is immediately laid, insulation is established between the foundation and the wall.

Slab foundation protection

Do you need moisture? The answer is yes. For high-quality protection, you need to provide the following:

• footing made of depleted concrete to isolate the slab support from bottom waters;
• waterproofing the concrete base, it is treated with mastic;
• external waterproofing.

When arranging the second layer of the slab, it is necessary to carry out high-quality insulation using the most modern materials. It is worth understanding that just as the waterproofing under the foundation slab will be incorrect, restoring the waterproofing of the foundation if it is destroyed will be impossible.

If the building is small and has a low specific gravity, you can use a simple polyethylene film in two folds, which is laid on the concrete base.

After the slab is ready, it is worth taking care of its external insulation using rolled material. Particular attention should be paid to the connections between the base and walls of the house.

Now you understand how to properly waterproof a foundation.

In custody

To the question of whether it is necessary to waterproof the foundation or not, you can safely answer - yes, it is necessary to carry out work to protect the support from moisture. Which waterproofing is better for protecting the foundation from the inside can only be determined by studying all the rules of arrangement and the material from which the building’s support is made.