Tanking Membranes
Tanking Membrane solutions by London Property Preservation offer an advanced, reliable solution for waterproofing needs. Our high-quality membranes provide superior protection against water and dampness, ensuring your property remains dry and secure. Ideal for a range of applications, our tanking membranes are the perfect choice for effective, long-lasting waterproofing.
What Is Tanking Membrane
Tanking membrane is a waterproofing system used to protect buildings from water and damp penetration. Typically made of a durable, flexible sheet material, it creates a physical barrier that blocks moisture and water ingress. These membranes are essential in below-ground structures like basements, cellars, and tunnels, as well as in wet areas like bathrooms and showers. Available in various types, including sheet-based and liquid-applied membranes, they cater to different needs and structural designs. Sheet-based membranes, often made of polymeric materials, are applied mechanically to the structure, while liquid membranes are painted or sprayed on, forming a seamless, watertight barrier upon drying. The choice of membrane depends on various factors including the structure’s design, the level of expected moisture, and specific installation considerations.
How Tanking Membranes Works
Tanking membranes work by providing an impermeable barrier, preventing water and moisture from penetrating the structure of a building. They function differently based on their type. Sheet-based membranes, for instance, are physically attached to walls and floors, overlapping at joints to ensure total coverage. These membranes often have a ‘fleecy’ surface on one side, which allows plaster or adhesive to adhere, making them ideal for basements and internal areas needing finishing.
Liquid membranes, on the other hand, are applied as a liquid and cure to form a rubbery, watertight coating. This type is particularly useful for complex shapes or where heavy detailing is required, as it can mould around irregular surfaces and penetrate tiny gaps. Both types effectively block pathways through which water and damp can enter, protecting structures from potential water damage, mould growth, and deterioration. Moreover, they are capable of handling some degree of structural movement and settling without compromising their waterproof integrity.
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Tanking Membrane Installation
Proper installation of tanking membranes is crucial for ensuring effective waterproofing. The process typically begins with surface preparation, ensuring the substrate is clean, dry, and free from any debris or sharp protrusions. For sheet membranes, the sheets are rolled out and cut to fit the area, with careful attention paid to overlapping seams to ensure complete coverage. These overlaps are then sealed with jointing tape or a suitable adhesive to create a continuous waterproof layer. It’s vital to cover corners and edges thoroughly, as these areas are particularly susceptible to water ingress.
For liquid-applied membranes, the substance is usually brushed, rolled, or sprayed onto the surface. Application should be even and cover all areas comprehensively, with particular focus on joints and potential weak spots like around pipes or fixtures. Multiple coats may be necessary, with each layer needing adequate drying time as specified by the manufacturer. After installation, it’s important to protect the membrane from damage during subsequent construction activities or backfilling in the case of external applications.
Tanking Membrane for Walls
Tanking membranes are an ideal solution for waterproofing walls, particularly in areas prone to damp or in below-ground constructions like basements. For walls, the membrane must provide not only a water-resistant barrier but also manage any moisture that might already be present in the structure. This often involves the use of dimpled sheet membranes, which allow for a small air gap between the wall and the membrane. This design facilitates the management of any existing moisture, channelling it down to a drainage point and away from the wall.
Installation on walls requires the membrane to be securely fixed, typically with special plugs and sealing washers to hold it in place while also maintaining its integrity as a damp-proof layer. Overlapping sections need to be carefully sealed to prevent any water ingress. After installation, walls can usually be directly plastered over the membrane, allowing for a seamless integration into the interior finish of the room. It’s crucial to ensure that the type of tanking membrane chosen is compatible with the specific wall structure and the expected level of moisture exposure.
Types of Damp Proofing
Plastering
Tanking Membrane for Wet Rooms
Tanking membranes are particularly vital in wet rooms, where the entire room needs to be waterproof to prevent leaks and moisture damage. In these spaces, the membrane must be applied to both the floors and the walls, extending to the full shower area and any other wet zones. The process starts with ensuring the substrate is level, clean, and free from any sharp objects that might puncture the membrane.
For wet rooms, a seamless, liquid-applied membrane is often preferred due to its ease of creating a continuous, joint-free surface. This type is typically applied in two or more coats, with careful attention to corners, floor-to-wall junctions, and around sanitary fittings where leaks are most likely to occur. After application, it’s essential to test the waterproofing layer thoroughly for any leaks before tiling or finishing the surfaces. A correctly applied tanking membrane in a wet room provides a completely watertight seal, ensuring long-term protection against water damage and maintaining the structural integrity of the room.
Tanking Kit for Showers
A tanking kit for showers is a complete system designed to waterproof the shower area, preventing water infiltration and the associated problems like mould, dampness, and damage to the building structure. These kits typically include everything needed for effective shower waterproofing — a liquid or sheet membrane, sealing tape, adhesive, and often preformed corners for a watertight finish around tricky areas.
The application process involves first preparing the shower area by cleaning and smoothing out any uneven surfaces. The tanking membrane, whether liquid or sheet, is then applied to the floor and walls, focusing on achieving an even and comprehensive coverage. Sealing tape is used at the junctions between walls and floors and around any penetrations like pipes or shower trays to ensure these critical areas are fully waterproofed. For sheet membranes, the sheets should overlap at seams and be securely bonded together. With liquid membranes, ensure each coat is dry before applying the next. A well-installed tanking kit creates a watertight barrier that not only protects the building but also provides peace of mind against water damage in shower installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does 'tanking walls' involve?
Can tanking be applied to any type of wall?
How long does tanking last?
Will tanking affect the appearance of my walls?
Is tanking a solution for rising damp?
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