Retaining Wall Waterproofing from F.E.W Waterproofing

Waterproofing is an area of construction that is so difficult and expensive to replace, it is imperative to get it right.

• Waterproofing materials won't stick to a dirty surface.
• Scrape off excess and loose material from walls and footings and power wash before waterproofing applicators arrive.
• Get as much as possible done ahead of time: once waterproofing application starts timing is crucial and to stop to scrape loose concrete from the footings etc etc interrupts the rhythm.
• And keep the foundation wall and footings clean, free of loose material, and fairly smooth just before waterproofing. Quite often, puddles of congealed slurry form on the footing when the wall is poured. This material doesn't have the full strength of concrete; it isn't bonded to the footing, and should scrape off easily.
• Remove concrete form ties. If there's an odd form tie that wasn't aligned properly and won't break off flush, cut it off with a cutting torch or reciprocating saw. Break form ties off on the inside of the foundation too.
• Most waterproofing systems need protection during backfilling; remember this when backfilling commences.
• Keep other trades and workers out of the area. Besides the safety hazards, other workers tend to be oblivious to what waterproofers are trying to accomplish. The amount of damage to membranes by other trades I have seen over the years doesn't bear thinking about!