Waterproofing and tanking are two terms that are often used to describe treatments and solutions for water ingress and damp problems in structures below the ground.

From basements and cellars to underground car parks and new builds with earth retaining walls, there are a multitude of domestic and commercial uses for structural waterproofing and tanking. But what exactly do these terms mean?

Tanking involves the internal application of a waterproof material directly onto the walls, floor and sometimes the ceiling of an underground space. This material will create a barrier to prevent moisture from getting into the basement, cellar etc... 

The level of protection that tanking can provide depends on a few factors such as the levels of hydrostatic pressure surrounding the property foundations and any external movements or vibrations that could cause cracks or damage to the tanking material.

That said, if the environment is suitable and the tanking is applied correctly, then it would be a highly effective method of keeping a space dry.

Other names for tanking include “cementitious waterproofing” and “Type A Waterproofing”.