DWC convert 11 basements into superb student accommodation

DWC have successfully completed the conversion of 11 basements into valuable living space to be used for student accommodation in a Loughborough street of terraced houses using Cavity Drainage membrane systems provided by Triton Systems.

Why a Cavity Drainage System?

DWC’s Midlands based surveyor Don Martin (CSRT/CSSW) carried out the initial in-depth diagnostic survey and a Cavity Drainage membrane system was selected to be provided by Triton. This system, unlike cementitious tanking which holds water back, works on the principle of allowing water to penetrate the building into an air gap with water diverting away to a drainage point. It has the benefit of preventing water pressure building up against the structure and therefore allows a much higher degree of tolerance to any structural movement of the property. It was an ideal choice for these properties and working to BS8102 (2009) standards of waterproofing, a specification of works was drawn up.

Organisation was Key

The whole project had a small window of opportunity between the end of term finishing and the new term beginning. DWC project managed the entire refurbishment programme working with structural waterproofing suppliers Triton and property owners Parr Housing to co-ordinate the highly detailed specifications with DWC’s own team of Midland based technicians and so ensured the successful conversion of these otherwise under-utilised cellars.

The Waterproofing Programme

Firstly walls were moved and flooring dug up onto which a new concrete floor was laid incorporating drainage channels. A sump chamber was built into each basement floor and a Triton Aqua Pump Pro was installed. This provides the means for diverting the water away as well as incorporating an alarm which acts as the warning system to alert the end user if the water rises above the normal operating levels within the tank.

Triton P5 membrane was laid on the wall and floors then fixed using specialist plugs and sealants to create the cavity and the essential watertight seals. Battens were attached to the membrane using specialist Platon fixing plugs onto which plasterboard was fitted. The basements were finished with a plaster skim finish to the walls and the floor was screeded.

The Results

The transformation of 11 damp and unusable cellars into valuable living space overseen by Don Martin, who provides a local Midlands presence for DWC. Don Martin says ‘A quick turnaround combined with precision and technical knowledge was key to the success of this project which I am delighted to say we achieved although I don’t think our technicians saw daylight for 3 weeks!’

Dominic Parr of Parr Housing commenting on what was accomplished said ‘We couldn’t be more pleased with the results. The finished product is absolutely superb and I am very pleased we took the decision to utilise these basements. As with all our properties we are now able to provide superb accommodation with something a little extra.’