A below-grade waterproofing membrane should be designed to last as long as the structure itself. ASTM D7832, the standard guide for below-grade waterproofing membrane performance, states that a membrane should maintain its integrity for the life of the building in a continuously or intermittently moist environment. For most commercial foundations, that means a service life of 50 years or more.
Why is this different from above-grade systems?
A roof membrane can be inspected, maintained, and replaced on a predictable cycle. A below-grade membrane cannot. Once backfill is placed or the slab is poured, the membrane is buried against the structure for good. There is no maintenance program, no periodic recoat, and no practical way to observe its condition.
In other words, it is inaccessible.
Below grade waterproofing remediation involves excavating to the foundation or attempting negative-side repairs from inside the structure. This can be challenging, not to mention very costly!
What determines the longevity of a waterproofing system?
If waterproofing survives the construction process, it’s a good indicator that it should last as long as designed!
All kidding aside, site traffic and many moving parts during construction make installation a critical time. Substrate preparation, penetration and transition detailing, and backfill damage can all affect the waterproofing, and so it is important to work with a trusted manufacturer that can provide correct installation guidelines, on site assistance, and technical support.
Also, QA/QC is key for catching any flaws or issues before construction progresses to a point at which repair is no longer possible.
EPRO has a comprehensive line of waterproofing and contaminant barrier systems that are ideal for any type of construction site and will save time and money during the construction process and throughout the building’s life. Self-adhered single sheet systems are designed to adhere directly to concrete substrates; EPRO offers both pre-applied and post-applied systems. Composite waterproofing systems like EPRO’s E-Series provide several layers of protection which are superior to the materials used on their own.
And what about warranties – where do they fit in?
Most below-grade waterproofing warranties run somewhere between five and twenty years, and their value depends on what they cover. EPRO provides owners with the optional E.Assurance No-Dollar-Limit warranty. The E.Assurance warranty program leverages our product and construction knowledge to ensure every project is a success. The warranty program contains four main steps: Plan review, install coordination, inspection protocol and warranty service.
The bottom line
From building design and site conditions to construction schedules and budgets, finding the best waterproofing system for your project comes with a lot of considerations. With so many systems available, it’s often difficult to know which building materials will work best - the EPRO team is here to help choose the right system for your site conditions.