Protect your basement, cellar or below-ground structure with a professionally designed cementitious tanking system.
Universal Basement Waterproofing provides specialist cement tanking for residential and commercial properties throughout London and the South East. Cementitious tanking creates a waterproof barrier across prepared basement walls and floors, helping prevent damp and groundwater from passing through the structure.
Our experienced surveyors will assess the source and severity of the water ingress, inspect the condition of the substrate and determine whether a cement tanking system is appropriate for your property.
Understanding the system
How Cementitious Tanking Protects Your Property
Cement tanking is applied directly to properly prepared masonry or concrete, creating a continuous barrier designed to resist water entering through basement walls, floors and vulnerable structural junctions.
Resists Water Ingress
The cementitious coating bonds to the structural surface to help resist groundwater, damp and water passing through the walls or floor.
Type A Waterproofing
Cement tanking is classified as Type A barrier protection under BS 8102 for protecting below-ground structures against water ingress.
Continuous Barrier
The walls, floor, corners, joints and service penetrations are treated as one connected system rather than isolated areas of damp.
Ready for Internal Finishing
Once the waterproofing system has cured and been protected correctly, suitable plastering, flooring and internal finishes can be installed.
Domestic and commercial applications
Where Can Cement Tanking Be Used?
A cementitious waterproofing system can protect many types of below-ground structure, subject to the condition and stability of the substrate.
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Residential Basements & Cellars
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Commercial Basements
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Plant Rooms & Lift Pits
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Underground Storage Areas
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Retaining Walls
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Period Properties
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Service Rooms & Utility Areas
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New Below-Ground Construction
Cement tanking may be considered when a basement or cellar has damp walls, active water ingress, damaged plaster, peeling paint, white salt deposits, mould, musty smells or water entering through wall-to-floor junctions.
Professional installation
Our Cement Tanking Process
Every installation begins with an assessment of the property. The system must be designed around the structure, substrate, water pressure and intended use of the space.
1. Waterproofing Survey
We inspect the basement or cellar, assess the existing construction and discuss how you intend to use the finished space.
2. Water Ingress Investigation
We identify signs of water entering through walls, floors, joints, cracks and penetrations while considering drainage and external ground conditions.
3. Substrate Preparation
Paint, plaster, loose material and unsuitable coatings are removed to expose sound masonry or concrete. Defective mortar, cracks and weak areas are repaired.
4. Detailing & Tanking
Corners, wall-to-floor junctions, penetrations and other vulnerable areas are detailed before the cementitious waterproofing coats are applied.
5. Inspection & Finishing
The completed installation is inspected before appropriate protective layers, plastering, flooring or internal finishes are installed.
6. Documentation & Warranty
Qualifying domestic and commercial installations receive our 10-year installation and product warranty, with optional insurance-backed protection available.
Professional KÖSTER waterproofing products
KÖSTER Cement Tanking & Structural Waterproofing
KÖSTER BAUCHEMIE AG has more than 35 years of experience manufacturing specialist waterproofing products. After many years of successful installations, KÖSTER UK has become one of our trusted system suppliers for cementitious tanking, structural repairs, damp-proofing and crack injection work.
KÖSTER Products Used Within Our Waterproofing Systems
The precise combination of products depends on the structure, substrate, level of water pressure and waterproofing design. Not every product is required on every installation.
KÖSTER NB 1 Grey Waterproofing Slurry
KÖSTER NB 1 Grey is a crystallising mineral waterproofing slurry containing capillary-plugging agents. It is designed to protect against groundwater, non-pressurised water and pressurised water exceeding 13 bar.
Its resistance to water pressure and abrasion makes it suitable for demanding masonry and concrete waterproofing applications. It may be applied by brush or with specialist spraying equipment to produce an even, pressure-applied coating.
KÖSTER Repair Mortar Plus
KÖSTER Repair Mortar Plus is a fast-setting, watertight and slightly expansive repair mortar designed for vulnerable areas where water or pressurised water could enter the structure.
It provides strong adhesion to new and older substrates and can be used for watertight repairs and wall-to-floor fillets as part of a cementitious system with NB 1 Grey.
KÖSTER SB Bonding Emulsion
KÖSTER SB Bonding Emulsion is an elasticising synthetic dispersion for use with cementitious mortars, plasters, sealing slurries and concrete.
When added to mineral products, it improves flexibility and elasticity while reducing water absorption. It is waterproof in its own right and is commonly used alongside KÖSTER Repair Mortar Plus.
KÖSTER Polysil TG 500
KÖSTER Polysil TG 500 is a deep-penetrating primer for damp, salt-containing substrates. It also acts as an anti-lime treatment and liquid hardener for sealing slurries.
Its polymers and silicates help bind free lime within the structure, improve water resistance and reduce the amount of lime entering a cavity drainage system. It can be applied by brush or spray.
KÖSTER Crisin Cream DPC
KÖSTER Crisin Cream is a retroactive damp-proof course designed to protect against capillary rising moisture and rising damp.
The resin and silane-based injection cream can be installed internally or externally and is designed to remain effective in masonry affected by moisture and salts.
KÖSTER Quellband
KÖSTER Quellband is a sodium-bentonite water-swellable joint tape with an alkalinity-activated surface coating that helps prevent premature swelling during installation.
It is positioned in concrete construction joints before the new concrete is poured. Contact with water activates the material, allowing it to swell and seal the joint against water ingress.
KÖSTER 21
KÖSTER 21 is a two-component, solvent-free, elastic and crack-bridging liquid waterproofing system with strong adhesion to dry and damp substrates.
Its liquid application makes it useful around complicated architectural details. It also provides resistance to certain synthetic oils and aliphatic hydrocarbons.
KÖSTER 2 IN 1 Crack Injection
KÖSTER 2 IN 1 is an elastic polyurethane injection resin used to stop active leaks and permanently seal dry or water-bearing cracks, construction joints and voids.
When it contacts water, it reacts to form an elastic foam. In dry conditions it forms a solid elastic resin that remains flexible and can accommodate subsequent movement within the crack.
The foundation of a successful system
Correct Preparation Is Essential
The effectiveness of cement tanking depends on the condition and preparation of the surface beneath it. Waterproof slurry should not simply be applied over paint, damaged plaster, dust, salts or unstable masonry.
The basement will normally need to be stripped back to sound masonry or concrete. Defective mortar, cracks and weakened areas must be repaired, while corners, service penetrations and wall-to-floor junctions require careful detailing before the primary tanking coats are applied.
Where water is actively entering the property, specialist water-stopping or crack-injection products may be required before the complete cementitious system can be installed.
Selecting the right waterproofing method
Cement Tanking or Cavity Drain Membrane?
Cement tanking and cavity drain membrane systems protect basements in different ways. The correct specification depends on the construction, substrate, expected movement, water pressure and intended use of the finished space.
Type A barrier protection Type C drained protection Combined systems BS 8102 design
Tanking resists water at the structural surface
Membranes manage water entering the structure
Tanking requires a stable, prepared substrate
Type C systems direct water to drainage
Combined protection may suit higher-risk sites
Cementitious tanking is not automatically suitable for every damp basement. If the substrate is unstable, movement is expected or water needs to be managed rather than resisted, we may recommend a Delta cavity drain membrane system or a combined waterproofing design.
Specialist knowledge and complete delivery
Why Choose Universal Basement Waterproofing?
We manage the process from the initial investigation and waterproofing design through to installation, documentation and complete basement refurbishment.
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More Than 50 Years of Combined Experience
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Experienced Waterproofing Surveyors
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BS 8102-Compliant Recommendations
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10-Year Warranty on Qualifying Work
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Complete Basement Refurbishment
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KÖSTER, Sika & Delta Systems
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London & South East Coverage
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One Point of Project Responsibility
Local specialist coverage
Cement Tanking Across London and the South East
We provide cement tanking and structural waterproofing throughout London, Kent, Surrey, Essex, Sussex and surrounding areas. Our team works on domestic cellars, residential basements, period properties, commercial buildings, plant rooms, retaining structures and new below-ground construction.
Common questions
Cement Tanking Frequently Asked Questions
What is cement tanking?
Cement tanking waterproofs walls and floors using specialist cement-based coatings applied directly to prepared masonry or concrete to create a barrier against water ingress.
Is cement tanking suitable for old cellars?
It can be suitable, but the masonry must be assessed first. Weak surfaces, movement, contamination and irregular construction may affect whether a cementitious barrier will perform correctly.
Can cement tanking stop an active leak?
Active water may need to be controlled using specialist water-stopping or crack-injection products before the complete tanking system is installed.
Can tanking be applied over plaster?
Cementitious tanking normally needs to bond directly to prepared masonry or concrete. Existing plaster, paint and loose finishes will generally need to be removed.
How long does cement tanking last?
A correctly specified and professionally installed system can provide long-term protection. Its performance depends on preparation, detailing, water pressure and the condition of the structure.
Will cement tanking prevent condensation?
No. Tanking protects against water passing through the structure. Ventilation, heating and humidity control may still be required to manage moisture generated inside the room.
How much does cement tanking cost?
The price depends on the size and condition of the basement, preparation requirements, severity of water ingress and selected waterproofing system. A detailed quotation is provided after the survey.
Do I need a survey?
Yes. Cementitious tanking is not suitable for every structure. The survey allows us to inspect the substrate, investigate the water ingress and design the appropriate system.
Discuss your basement
Arrange Your Cement Tanking Survey
Our waterproofing specialists will inspect the structure, investigate the likely source of the water ingress and determine whether cement tanking is suitable for your property.
One of our waterproofing specialists will inspect your basement, discuss the most suitable waterproofing system and provide expert recommendations with no obligation.
Hampstead basement waterproofing case study covering hillside Victorian basement damp remediation, Type C cavity drain systems, sump pump redundancy & BS8102 structural protection.
Islington Basement Waterproofing Project
Expert Islington basement waterproofing case study for Victorian properties. Structural waterproofing, damp remediation, cavity drain systems & BS8102 compliance.
Westminster Basement Waterproofing Project
Westminster basement waterproofing case study covering Victorian basement damp remediation, Type C cavity drain systems, sump pump redundancy & BS8102-compliant structural protection.
Whether you’re planning a new basement or need to stop persistent damp and water ingress, our experienced surveyors can recommend the right waterproofing solution.
The cost of basement construction depends on several factors, including the size of the basement, the ground conditions, the intended use of the space, and the waterproofing system required. Every project is unique, so we recommend arranging a professional survey, where one of our experienced surveyors can assess your property and provide a detailed, no-obligation quotation tailored to your requirements.
In many cases, basement waterproofing alone does not require planning permission. However, basement construction, excavation, or significant structural alterations may require planning approval and Building Regulations compliance, particularly in certain London boroughs or conservation areas. We can advise you during your survey and help you understand any permissions your project may require.
The duration of a basement waterproofing project depends on the size and complexity of the work. Smaller waterproofing installations can often be completed within a few days, while larger basement construction or full structural waterproofing projects may take several weeks. Following your survey, we’ll provide a clear project schedule so you know exactly what to expect.
There is no single waterproofing system that is suitable for every property. The most effective solution depends on factors such as the construction of the building, ground conditions, water ingress risk, and how you intend to use the basement. Our experienced surveyors will assess your property and recommend the most appropriate BS8102-compliant waterproofing system, whether that’s a Type A (barrier protection), Type C (cavity drain membrane), or a combined system for maximum protection. We only install proven products from leading manufacturers, including Delta, KÖSTER, and Sika.
Yes. We install high-quality waterproofing systems from leading manufacturers such as Delta, KÖSTER, and Sika, following BS8102 standards for below-ground waterproofing. Our waterproofing systems are fully guaranteed, giving you confidence that your basement will remain dry and protected for years to come. We’ll explain the guarantees available during your survey.
We provide basement construction and structural waterproofing services throughout London, Kent, Surrey, Essex, Sussex, and the surrounding areas. If you’re unsure whether we cover your location, simply get in touch and our team will be happy to help.
Yes. We regularly waterproof existing basements, cellars, and vaults, whether they’re affected by damp, water ingress, or you’re planning to convert the space into a dry, usable room. Every property is different, so we carry out a professional survey to identify the cause of the problem before recommending the most suitable waterproofing solution. Our systems are designed to provide long-term protection while complying with BS8102 standards for below-ground structures.
With over 50 years of experience, Universal Basement Waterproofing has designed and installed waterproofing systems for properties across London and the South East. Our experienced surveyors design BS8102-compliant waterproofing solutions using trusted systems from Delta, KÖSTER, and Sika. From initial survey through to installation, we focus on delivering long-lasting, fully guaranteed waterproofing solutions tailored to every property.
We aim to arrange surveys as quickly as possible, subject to availability. During your survey, one of our experienced waterproofing specialists will assess your basement, discuss your requirements, identify any issues with damp or water ingress, and recommend the most suitable waterproofing solution. You’ll then receive a detailed, no-obligation quotation for the work required.
