Basements, foundations and retaining walls

Below Ground Tanking Auckland

Waterproofing for basements, foundations and retaining walls.

Below ground tanking is a waterproofing system for structures in direct contact with the ground. We install it on basements, foundations and retaining walls across Auckland, and fix leaking and damp basements, to keep groundwater and moisture out of the building.

  • Basements, foundations and retaining walls
  • Leaking and damp basements
  • Checked before backfilling, PS3 where required
Call 0800 433 987

Why below ground is different

It has to be right before the backfill

Below-ground waterproofing has to withstand constant moisture, groundwater pressure and movement within the structure. Once a wall is backfilled, the membrane cannot be reached again without digging it out, so it has to be right the first time.

Our systems are installed with careful attention to substrate preparation, membrane detailing, penetrations, junctions and protection before backfilling. Manufacturers such as Sika make a range of below-ground waterproofing systems for different structures and ground conditions, which is why we choose the system for each site.

Basement corridor with black tanking membrane on the lower concrete walls
Tanking membrane on basement walls.
BackfillFree-draining material against the wall
Protection or drainage boardProtects the membrane during backfilling
Tanking membraneSheet or liquid, lapped and detailed at joints and penetrations
PrimerMatched to the wall
WallConcrete or concrete block, with drainage at the footing
Typical tanked wall, outside face to inside. Not to scale. The system specified for your site sets the exact layers.

Where we use it

Below ground waterproofing applications

  • Basements: tanking for basement walls and other below-ground spaces where long-term protection against water is essential
  • Foundations and footings: protecting below-ground foundation walls from groundwater and moisture before backfilling
  • Retaining walls: waterproofing and drainage to manage ground moisture and protect the structure
  • Other below-ground areas: underground concrete structures and planter boxes

Planter boxes on decks are waterproofed much like a small tanked wall, and can be done alongside deck waterproofing.

Leaking basements

Dealing with a leaky or damp basement?

Water getting into a basement can quickly lead to damp, mould and costly damage. We identify where water and moisture are entering, assess the walls, floors and surrounding structure, and select a waterproofing system suited to the source, the substrate and the site. If you are not sure whether it needs tanking or a targeted waterproofing repair, that is what the assessment is for.

  • Leaking basement walls and floors
  • Rising damp and moisture problems
  • Waterproofing repairs and remedial solutions

What affects the price

  • Wall area and height
  • New work, or remedial work on an existing basement
  • Condition of the wall surface
  • Joints, penetrations and corners
  • Drainage and protection needed
  • The system specified

How it works

Our below ground tanking process

  1. Assessment and preparation

    We assess the substrate, project requirements and waterproofing details, then prepare the surface for installation.

  2. System selection

    The waterproofing system is selected to suit the structure, the site conditions and the project specification.

  3. Installation

    Membranes are installed with careful attention to joints, penetrations, corners and other critical details.

  4. Inspection and documentation

    Completed work is checked before backfilling, with warranty and PS3 documentation where applicable.

FAQs

Below ground waterproofing questions

When do you need to be on site?

On new work, after the wall is built and before it is backfilled. Book us early so the tanking does not hold up the backfill.

Can you fix a basement that is already leaking?

Yes. We find where the water is getting in and recommend a remedial solution suited to the source and the structure.

Do retaining walls need drainage as well as a membrane?

Yes, water behind a retaining wall has to be managed as well as kept out. Tell us what is already specified for drainage and we will confirm what is in our scope.

Is tanking covered by a warranty?

Yes. Our workmanship is backed by a 10-year workmanship warranty, with relevant system warranty and PS3 documentation provided where applicable.

More services

Related waterproofing services

Contact us

Contact us

Planning a basement, foundation or retaining wall, or dealing with water getting in? Talk to Ground Up Waterproofing about the right tanking and waterproofing solution. We will give you a free quote.

Call 0800 433 987