COMMERCIAL BASEMENT LEAK REPAIR SOLUTIONS
Confirma™ restores the structural damage caused in a damp basement to prevent water ingress from reoccurring.
Concrete structures can have damage caused by water and moisture which costs the building and construction industry billions of dollars every year. Moisture can turn concrete slabs and foundation walls into weak and vulnerable structures. It corrodes the steel reinforcement and causes a range of hidden issues.
It’s especially important for structures that are in contact with the ground to be protected from water ingress. However, defective external membranes, changing groundwater levels or movements within the structure can all leave the concrete foundations and subterranean walls vulnerable to deterioration.
Wet Basement Solutions
A leaking basement is a common problem that can occur due to various factors such as foundation cracks (in the basement wall or basement floor), hydrostatic pressure, inadequate waterproofing, or improper drainage. Traditional post-construction methods used to protect structures covered by the ground are complex and not always feasible. Interior sealings only hide the problem and do not protect the structure from damage. Generally, before any surfaces can be sealed externally they need to be fully exposed through excavation.
If the area around your structure has already been developed then excavation is unlikely to be an option for concrete foundation repair due to the high impact and economic cost.
However, there is a much more viable, cost-efficient solution for a challenging basement leak repair.
Confirma™ can provide a curtain injection solution to repair leaking basement walls without the need for costly excavations while also avoiding any disruptions to surrounding buildings. The gel curtain is injected through the wall from the inside to the outside which creates a waterproof barrier around the structure.
The curtain injection process starts by drilling holes through the structure in a grid pattern. Specialised pumping equipment is used to inject the flexible hydro-structure gels through the drilled holes, injecting from the lowest point in the wall and systematically working higher. Through this process, an entire curtain membrane can be achieved on the external side of the wall.
We offer a permanent solution with an expected life span of 30 to 50 years, allowing you to say goodbye to basement water problems for the long term.
The Hidden Costs of Water Damage
Moisture intrusion in concrete slabs and foundation walls leads to:
- Weakening of Concrete: Water infiltrates the material, reducing its strength and making it more vulnerable to stress and impact.
- Corrosion of Steel Reinforcements: Rust formation on embedded steel reduces load-bearing capacity and leads to cracking and spalling.
- Long-Term Structural Issues: These include foundation settling, wall displacement, and eventual failure if left unaddressed.
Concrete structures in direct contact with the ground are particularly vulnerable due to:
- Defective External Membranes: These may fail over time, leaving foundations unprotected.
- Fluctuating Groundwater Levels: Changes in water pressure can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities.
- Structural Movements: Shifting soil or settling buildings can crack foundations, allowing water ingress.
Common Causes of Basement Leaks
Addressing the causes of basement leaks early is crucial to prevent long-term structural damage, costly repairs, and potential business interruptions. By identifying and resolving water ingress issues promptly, you can ensure the longevity and safety of your commercial structure.
Foundation Cracks
Cracks in basement walls or floors are a primary entry point for water. These may result from:
Settlement of the structure.
Thermal expansion and contraction.
Poor-quality materials or workmanship.
Hydrostatic Pressure
Water pressure builds up in the surrounding soil and forces its way through weak points in the structure. This pressure can:
Overwhelm poorly designed drainage systems.
Penetrate minor imperfections in exterior walls or slabs.
Improper Drainage
Blocked or poorly installed drains and gutters can lead to water pooling near the foundation, increasing the risk of leaks.
Inadequate Waterproofing
Traditional waterproofing systems can fail over time due to:
Aging or improper installation of waterproof membranes.
Insufficient drainage systems around the building perimeter.
Challenges with Traditional Repair Methods
Excavation-Based Repairs
Traditional external waterproofing methods require full exposure of the foundation walls, which involves:
High Costs:
Excavation is labour-intensive and expensive, particularly in developed areas.
Significant Disruption:
The process can disturb adjacent structures, landscaping and daily operations.
Interior Sealants
Interior basement waterproofing methods only mask the problem rather than addressing the root cause. Interior sealants will:
Fail to protect the structure from ongoing water exposure.
Require frequent reapplication and maintenance.
Confirma™’s Innovative Curtain Injection Solution
Confirma™ offers a proven curtain injection technique that creates a waterproof barrier around the structure without excavation:
- Drilling: Holes are drilled through the structure in a grid pattern from the inside.
- Injection Process: Flexible hydro-structural gels, specifically designed to bond with concrete and resist water infiltration, are injected using specialised equipment. These gels are highly durable, resistant to environmental changes, and remain flexible to accommodate structural movements.
- Waterproof Barrier: The gel expands to form a continuous external curtain membrane, providing superior protection against water ingress compared to traditional materials. Unlike rigid solutions, these gels adapt to minor shifts and cracks, ensuring long-term effectiveness. Confirma™ offers a cutting-edge curtain injection technique that creates a waterproof barrier around the structure without excavation.
Confirma™ Benefits
Non-Disruptive:
No excavation means no impact on surrounding buildings or daily operations.
Cost-Effective:
Eliminates the need for heavy machinery and extensive labour.
Long-Term Protection:
Our solutions are designed to last 30-50 years, providing a permanent fix for basement water issues.
Confirma™’s solutions are versatile and ideal for:
Brick/masonry basement walls
Restores and protects aging masonry structures.
Underground car parks
Keeps commercial parking areas dry and structurally sound.
Concrete floors/walls
Prevents water seepage and strengthens foundational components.
Confirma™ are experts in Concrete Remediation
Confirma™ brings the expertise needed to take your concrete remediation repairs to the next level. For professional concrete repair services in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast or Gold Coast, trust the skilled team at Confirma™.
Concrete Cancer
Water Stop Injection
Concrete Beam
Concrete Foundation
Structural Strengthening
Structural Injection
Industrial Concrete Repairs
Concrete Spalling
FRP Composite Strengthening
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the repair process take?
The timeline for repairs depends on the size and complexity of the project. In most cases, Confirma™’s curtain injection process can be completed within a few days, significantly faster than traditional excavation methods. This rapid turnaround minimises disruption to daily operations and ensures your structure is protected as quickly as possible.
What types of buildings are ideal for curtain injection?
Confirma™’s curtain injection solution is highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of commercial structures, including:
- Underground car parks.
- Industrial facilities with concrete floors and walls.
- Commercial basements in high-rise buildings.
- Storage areas and utility spaces beneath ground level.
Our solutions are particularly valuable for buildings where excavation is not an option due to surrounding development or operational constraints.
Can curtain injection address ongoing water ingress during repairs?
Yes, the curtain injection method can be performed even when water is actively entering the structure. The hydro-structural gels are specifically designed to bond with wet surfaces and displace water during injection. This allows us to create a watertight barrier without waiting for the area to dry, ensuring a seamless and efficient repair process.