Tanking Solutions To Convert Your Basement

As property prices continue to fluctuate it is an increasingly popular for those with basements to convert them into liveable spaces. Unfortunately most of us with a basement have a room that has next to no natural light, is in a constant state of damp and as hence has that musty smell; hardly ideal as a spare or children's play room. This is where tanking solutions can convert your basement from the dank dark cellar into a warm, dry and ultimately comfortable area to spend time.

Using an effective tanking system can be an inexpensive way to convert your basement or cellar; giving you a usable space for your family while improving the value of your property. The benefits to tanking are definitely there; gaining an extra room at a low cost should be a powerful lure to some, especially if you are already happy with your home and are simply trying to find that extra bit of space.

Tanking can turn your cellar or basement into a brilliant addition to your home. The uses for a converted cellar are almost endless; many people choose to move their kitchen downstairs when they have undergone tanking in the basement. Others like to install wine cellars, studies or even living rooms. Ultimately the choice is yours once you have decided to undertake a process of tanking downstairs. It is not just residentially however that the extra space freed up from tanking a cellar can be utilised, some night clubs have installed downstairs rooms while businesses may want to use the extra space for storage or car parking.

There are normally two types of tanking solutions on the market today. Naturally both have pros and cons and depending upon how you envisage your basement being used after the work has been completed, will affect your decision as to which one to employ.

The first waterproofing solution uses cement mixtures and formulas to waterproof your cellar. The solution is versatile and strong, as well as hard wearing. Fundamentally it works by using a specially formulated concrete that is applied to the ceilings and walls. By adhering itself to the masonry, it can form an impervious barrier to water and moisture. It is normally applied in a number of coats to ensure a sufficient seal is built up to prevent any water from entering and damaging the converted space. Finally, an aesthetic plaster is rendered to the walls for decorating purposes.

The other form of tanking utilises studded plastic membranes to waterproof basement areas. Arguably this form of tanking is especially useful in Victorian houses due to the fact it negates the need for a sound internal structure. The process includes building an interior frame around the walls and then fixing the membrane, made from a waterproof plastic to the frame with studs. On the floor, the membrane is normally laid without the need for an additional framework.

After it is installed and a waterproof bubble has been created in the cellar, plasterboard is usually affixed on top of the membrane. It is normally the case that as the bubble is completely sealed, to have a drainage solution installed for any water that may need to be exhumed; as a result a pump is installed to ensure this water can be removed effectively. More commonly, it is a combination of both methods that is popular in the tanking industry. After using the concrete mix to waterproof the brickwork a membrane is later added. This ensures that a complete seal is formed and there is no way moisture can make it into the converted basement or cellar.

So whatever your reasons for wanting to convert your cellar, look into these two forms of tanking solution to ensure damp is eliminated. Before you know it you could have a usable space downstairs improving your home life and the value of your property.

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