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.
Cement Tanking
Cementitious Waterproofing for Basements, Cellars and Below-Ground Structures
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Cement Tanking London
Protect your basement or cellar with a professionally designed cementitious tanking system.
Universal Basement Waterproofing provides specialist cement tanking for homes, commercial properties and below-ground structures throughout London and the South East.
Cementitious tanking creates a waterproof barrier across basement walls and floors, helping prevent damp and water from passing through the structure. Correct preparation and installation are essential, particularly where the system must resist groundwater pressure.
Our experienced surveyors will inspect your property, assess the source and severity of the water ingress and determine whether cement tanking is the correct solution for your building.
Qualifying installations are completed using established waterproofing products and supported by our free 10-year installation and product warranty.
Professional Cement Tanking in London
Basement and cellar walls are exposed to moisture within the surrounding ground. When this moisture penetrates the structure, it can cause damp patches, peeling finishes, salt deposits, mould and active water ingress.
Cement tanking, also known as cementitious tanking, uses specialist waterproof coatings applied directly to prepared masonry or concrete. Once cured, the system forms a continuous barrier intended to resist water passing through the walls and floor.
This method is classified as Type A barrier protection under BS 8102. It may be used to waterproof existing cellars, basements, retaining walls, plant rooms, lift pits, concrete structures and other below-ground areas.
Cement tanking should not simply be applied over paint, damaged plaster or contaminated surfaces. The substrate must be properly assessed and prepared so that the waterproof coating can bond directly to a suitable structural surface.
Where Can Cement Tanking Be Used?
Cementitious waterproofing can be suitable for a wide variety of domestic and commercial applications. These include existing brick or concrete cellars, residential basements, retaining walls, underground storage areas, commercial basements, plant rooms, lift pits, service rooms and new below-ground construction.
It can also form part of a wider waterproofing design where additional protection is required around joints, penetrations, floors or vulnerable sections of the structure.
The suitability of cement tanking depends on the condition and stability of the substrate, the expected level of groundwater pressure and the intended use of the internal space. A professional survey is therefore required before a system is specified.
When Might Cement Tanking Be Required?
You may need a professional tanking assessment if your basement or cellar has damp walls, visible water ingress, damaged plaster, peeling paint, white salt deposits, mould, musty smells or water entering through wall-to-floor joints.
Cement tanking may also be considered when an existing cellar is being refurbished and requires a waterproof internal barrier before new finishes are installed.
However, visible damp does not automatically mean cement tanking is the right answer. Condensation, leaking plumbing, defective external drainage and rising damp can produce similar symptoms. Our surveyors first investigate the likely cause before recommending any waterproofing work.
How Does Cementitious Tanking Work?
A cementitious tanking system is applied directly to the prepared walls and floor of the basement. The coating bonds with the masonry or concrete to create a continuous waterproof layer.
Special attention must be given to corners, construction joints, cracks, service penetrations and wall-to-floor junctions. These areas can become weak points if they are not prepared and reinforced correctly.
Depending on the product and the requirements of the project, the tanking system may be applied in multiple coats. Each part of the installation must be completed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specification.
Once the system has cured, suitable protective and internal finishes can be installed. The exact build-up will depend on the tanking product, the structure and how the room will be used.
Our Cement Tanking Process
Professional Waterproofing Survey
One of our experienced surveyors will inspect the basement or cellar, assess the existing construction and discuss how you intend to use the space.
Water Ingress Investigation
We look for signs of water entering through the walls, floor, joints, cracks and service penetrations. We also consider drainage, external ground conditions and any existing waterproofing system.
System Design
If cementitious tanking is appropriate, we will specify a system suited to the substrate, expected water pressure and required level of protection.
Substrate Preparation
Paint, plaster, loose materials and unsuitable coatings are removed to expose a stable substrate. Defective mortar, cracks and damaged areas are repaired before the waterproof coating is applied.
Detailing and Tanking Installation
Wall-to-floor junctions, corners, penetrations and other vulnerable areas are prepared and detailed. The cementitious tanking product is then applied in accordance with the required specification.
Inspection and Finishing
The completed installation is inspected before protective layers or internal finishes are added. Where requested, our team can also complete the wider refurbishment of the basement or cellar.
Documentation and Warranty
Qualifying commercial and domestic waterproofing installations receive our free 10-year installation and product warranty. Optional insurance-backed warranty protection is also available.
Correct Preparation Is Essential
The effectiveness of a cement tanking system depends heavily on the condition and preparation of the surface beneath it. Applying waterproof slurry over loose paint, damaged render, dust, salts or unstable masonry can prevent the material from bonding correctly.
The basement will usually need to be stripped back to sound masonry or concrete. Defective areas must then be repaired, and vulnerable joints must be properly detailed before the main tanking coats are applied.
Where water is actively entering the property, temporary water-stopping measures may be required before the complete system can be installed.
Our technicians assess and prepare the substrate as part of the waterproofing process rather than attempting to conceal the problem behind a new surface finish.
Professional Cementitious Waterproofing Systems
Universal Basement Waterproofing installs established waterproofing products from leading manufacturers, including KÖSTER and Sika.
KÖSTER waterproofing systems include specialist mineral coatings and associated products designed for waterproofing masonry, concrete and below-ground structures.
Sika waterproofing systems can provide cementitious barrier protection for basements and other structures where resistance to water ingress is required.
The product and specification will be selected according to the property, substrate, water pressure and overall waterproofing design. We do not assume that one product or system will be suitable for every building.
Cement Tanking or Cavity Drain Membrane?
Cement tanking is a Type A barrier system. Its purpose is to resist water passing through the basement walls and floor.
A Type C cavity drain membrane system works differently. Instead of attempting to block water at the internal surface, it controls water entering through the structure and directs it towards a drainage point or sump and pump system.
Cement tanking can be effective where the substrate is strong, stable and suitable for direct application. A cavity drain membrane may be more appropriate where movement is expected, where the structure is difficult to prepare or where water needs to be managed rather than resisted.
In higher-risk situations, a combined waterproofing design may be recommended to provide additional protection. Our surveyor will explain which approach is most appropriate for your property.
Is Cement Tanking Suitable for Every Basement?
No. Cementitious tanking is not automatically the correct solution for every damp basement or cellar.
The system relies on a strong bond with the underlying structure. Movement, cracking, unstable masonry, unsuitable surfaces or very high water pressure may affect its long-term performance.
The waterproofing design must also consider the wall-to-floor junction, service penetrations, internal drainage and the intended grade of the finished basement.
If a Type A barrier system is not suitable, we may recommend a Delta cavity drain membrane system or a combined waterproofing approach.
A professional survey allows these risks to be considered before money is spent on a system that may not be appropriate for the building.
Long-Term Protection for Below-Ground Spaces
A correctly specified and installed cement tanking system can help turn a damp or water-affected basement into a dry, protected space.
Depending on the property and regulatory requirements, the waterproofed area could be used as storage, a utility room, a home office, a gym, a cinema room or additional living accommodation.
Universal Basement Waterproofing can manage the project from the initial survey and substrate preparation through to waterproofing, installation documentation and full internal refurbishment.
This provides one point of responsibility for both the specialist waterproofing work and the creation of the finished space.
Why Choose Universal Basement Waterproofing?
More Than 50 Years of Experience
Our team combines specialist structural waterproofing knowledge with extensive construction and property refurbishment experience.
Experienced Waterproofing Surveyors
Every recommendation begins with an assessment of the property, the substrate and the source of the water ingress.
BS 8102-Compliant Recommendations
Our waterproofing designs follow the principles of BS 8102 for protecting below-ground structures against water ingress.
Established Waterproofing Products
We install professional systems from recognised manufacturers, including KÖSTER, Sika and Delta Membrane Systems.
Complete Project Delivery
We can strip the space back to the substrate, install the waterproofing and complete the full refurbishment using the required specialist trades.
Guaranteed Qualifying Installations
Qualifying waterproofing work receives our free 10-year installation and product warranty, with optional insurance-backed protection available.
Cement Tanking Across London and the South East
We provide cement tanking and structural waterproofing services 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 basement construction.
If you are unsure whether we cover your area, call us on 020 3795 4900.
Cement Tanking Frequently Asked Questions
What is cement tanking?
Cement tanking is a method of waterproofing walls and floors using specialist cement-based coatings. The coating is applied directly to prepared masonry or concrete to form a barrier against water ingress.
Is cement tanking suitable for old cellars?
It can be suitable for some older cellars, but the masonry must be assessed first. Weak surfaces, movement, contamination and irregular construction can influence whether a cementitious barrier will perform correctly.
Can cement tanking stop an active leak?
Active water may need to be controlled with specialist water-stopping products before the complete tanking system is installed. The correct approach depends on the location, rate and cause of the leak.
Can tanking be applied over existing plaster?
Cementitious tanking normally needs to bond directly to a suitably prepared masonry or concrete substrate. Existing plaster, paint and loose finishes will generally need to be removed before installation.
How long does cement tanking last?
A professionally specified and correctly installed system can provide long-term protection. Its performance depends on the substrate, preparation, water pressure, detailing and suitability of the original design.
Will cement tanking prevent condensation?
Cement tanking is designed to protect against water passing through the structure. It does not remove moisture generated inside the room. Ventilation, heating and humidity control may still be required to manage condensation.
How much does cement tanking cost?
The price depends on the size and condition of the basement, the preparation required, the severity of the water ingress and the selected waterproofing system. We provide a detailed quotation after surveying the property.
Does cement tanking come with a guarantee?
Qualifying commercial and domestic waterproofing installations receive our free 10-year installation and product warranty. The applicable guarantee will be explained before work begins.
Do I need a survey before cement tanking?
Yes. A survey is important because cementitious tanking is not suitable for every structure. The survey allows us to inspect the substrate, investigate the water ingress and determine the correct waterproofing design.
Arrange Your Cement Tanking Survey
If your basement or cellar is affected by damp or water ingress, arrange an assessment with one of our waterproofing specialists.
We will inspect the structure, identify the likely source of the problem and determine whether cement tanking is suitable for your property. You will then receive a clear recommendation and detailed quotation for the required work.
Request Your Cement Tanking Survey Today
To speak to a waterproofing specialist, call
020 3795 4900.
Email:
info@unbw.co.uk
Book Your Basement Survey Now
One of our waterproofing specialists will inspect your basement, discuss the most suitable waterproofing system and provide expert recommendations with no obligation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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.