Great waterproofing can go a long way

Preprufe waterproofing membrane from GCP Applied Technologies is an ideal waterproofing barrier for any below ground project with a critical internal environment. For any building to stand the test of time, superior underground waterproofing is crucial in preventing water ingress from causing irreparable damage to substructures. Waterproofing challenge Effective substructure waterproofing is challenging. These systems need to be designed and installed to ensure the basement remains dry throughout its lifetime. Water can easily find its way into the substructure. There is an increased risk for construction below the water table, where the groundwater is under pressure and more likely to pass through cracks into the basement. Once concrete is compromised, any building naturally faces a much shorter service life. This leads to cracks and fractures to the reinforcing steel which accelerates the corrosion process, contributing to the shorter service life. Therefore, identifying the right material solutions early in the design stage is vital as it is difficult and costly to address leakages later. Permanent solution An ideal waterproofing barrier for any below ground project with a critical internal environment is the Preprufe waterproofing membrane from GCP Applied Technologies. This combats the harmful effects of water migration and prevents concrete deterioration before it can begin. It is designed to envelop the structure with a continuous layer of protection with the minimum number of ancillary products. The membrane is a composite sheet that consists of three layers: High-density polyethylene film; a malleable, pressure-sensitive adhesive layer; and a patented weather and dirt-resistant microporous top layer which is suitable for foot traffic. Because Preprufe is applied as a single-layer, installation quality is less dependent on the skill-level of on-site personnel. It offers contractors and developers the ability to save both time and cost on the job site. Unlike other membrane systems, the Preprufe waterproofing membrane does not solely rely upon mechanical bonding of fibres or on variable hydration processes, and it can withstand more than 70 m head of water at laps. Its advanced bonding technology provides an impermeable barrier through which water cannot pass. Liquid concrete aggressively adheres to Preprufe, forming a unique seal and preventing water migration between waterproofing and structure - substantially reducing the risk of leaks. The material is also less susceptible to the unpredictability of site conditions. It can be applied on wet substrates and is immediately ready (without protective layers) to receive rebar installation. This makes it a faster and simpler option than many other waterproof membranes that typically require a wide range of ancillary materials to be effective. Proven track record Preprufe membrane system has been applied to numerous notable projects, including one of Europe's largest rail projects in the UK, as well as the rail projects in Singapore and Hong Kong. To provide high quality protection to the tunnel shafts, piled walls, base slabs and roof in these projects, Preprufe was used to waterproof the dense steel reinforcement within the base slab and the complicated detail at the intersection between the cast slab and the sprayed concrete lining situated more than 30 m below ground. (Communication by the management of the company)