Introducing Newton’s Innovative and Proven New Range
Newton 301 AquaProof Metal Construction Joint Water Bar
John Newton & Co have been protecting buildings from the effects of water ingress for more than 160 years and have now included into their portfolio a range of concrete waterproofing solutions using the latest technologies offering the specifier the ability to protect the entire envelope of the structure from below ground base slab, earth retained walls to concrete deck waterproofing solutions, all from a single source.
The innovative and proven new Newton System 300 – Waterproofing of Concrete Structures range which has been installed throughout Europe and worldwide, includes:
Benefits Of A Combined Waterproofing Approach
When tasked to waterproof retaining structures in accordance with BS8102:2009 “Code of Practice for Protection of Below Ground Structures Against Water from the Ground”, professional waterproofing designers should now consider using more than one type of waterproofing to provide enhanced protection of the structure to achieve the necessary environmental grade.
Newton provide waterproofing products for all three types of waterproofing as defined within BS8102:2009:
Type A (barrier) protection – Newton System 100 – Cementitious Products, Newton System 200 – Deck and Roofing and Newton System 400 – External Waterproofing
Type B (structurally integral) protection – Newton System 300 – Waterproofing of Concrete Structures
Type C (drained) protection – Newton System 500 – Cavity Drain Waterproofing
Combination strategies provide increased waterproofing protection to the structure. The provision of a maintainable waterproofing system is recommended within BS8102:2009 and Newton can provide maintainable options for all three types of waterproofing defined by the British Standard.
Installation of Newton 302 InjectionHose or Newton 304 PolyProof-Inject allows for re-grouting and resin sealing of defects that may appear post construction and Newton System 500, incorporating Newton Basedrain, provides a maintainable waterproofing system that can be accessed without detriment to internal finishes.
Welcoming Derek Wadsworth to John Newton & Company
Newton 304 PolyProof Inject High Grade Hydrophilic Water Bar
To further endorse our commitment to the new System 300 range we are delighted to welcome Derek Wadsworth to the John Newton team. Derek, who will be heading up our concrete waterproofing product portfolio, has worked in the construction industry for 21 years and brings with him a wealth of experience having worked for some of the UK’s most prominent structural waterproofing companies. Derek has experience of bentonite products from his time with CETCO Europe Ltd, cementitious concrete waterproofing technologies having headed up the UK operations of Vandex (UK) Ltd., and most recently Grace Construction Products Ltd., working throughout Central London and the South East assisting key architectural and engineering practices waterproof landmark UK projects.
Derek added: “I’m proud to be working with John Newton & Co and look forward to assisting in the launch of the new range of concrete waterproofing products which, added to the current portfolio, allows us to assist specifiers and our Newton Specialist Basement Contractors (NSBC) to cover all aspects of building envelope protection.”
Newton Registered Installers
Newton Specialist Waterproofing Contractors (NSBC) can offer peace of mind to the designer and the client by taking full design liability on the project, even fulfilling the role of ‘waterproofing specialist’ as recommended by BS8102:2009. In addition they provide a meaningful guarantee for their work, which can be insured on request. For advice on your waterproofing project, ring Newtons on 020 7237 1217 or e-mail info@newton-membranes.co.uk. For a list of registered installers expert in all aspects of waterproofing, including concrete decks, fill out our online form Request Registered Installers
Concrete Show – Free Tickets
Contact us for your free ticket for the Concrete Show!
John Newton & Company will be exhibiting at the Concrete Show in Coventry on February 22nd – 23d. For your free ticket, please e-mail lucinda@newton-membranes.co.uk
Download Brochures
Further Information and Registered Installers
For further information or to speak to one of our technical experts, please ring 020 7237 1217. For a list of Newton Specialist Basement Contractors (NSBC) in your area, please e-mail info@newton-membranes.co.uk or fill out our online form: Request List of Registered Installers
What to consider when waterproofing an existing basement - a quick guide
When you are looking at waterproofing an existing basement you have a large variety of products available at your disposal. The key is choosing the right product at the right price to achieve the degree of waterproofing required for the intended use of the basement.
When waterproofing an existing basement, you will either:
- attempt to hold water back by applying a cementitious system to the basement or
- install a cavity drain system which will manage and expel any water ingress prior to damaging internal finishes.
The existing basement in this Grade II Listed building was waterproofed with Newton System 500
Firstly what needs to be considered is – what are you using the space for? If it is a bike shed then you are not going to insulate it or go to a massive effort to rake out the mortar joints etc. The big cost will be the prep here and of course it will take a while for the render approach to dry. If you are happy with the risk of water ingress coming out on the floor then maybe go for a cavity drain membrane as a damp proof membrane and accept if water comes in you will deal with it then.
If it is going to be habitable accommodation it needs to be totally dry with no water or water vapour acceptable. You have two choices.
A. Waterproofing an Existing Basement – Barrier Option
This barrier will require preparation by a trained waterproofing expert. To make it 100% watertight means 100% workmanship which keep in mind is very difficult to achieve. In all circumstances with an internal barrier, for it to be effective you will need to do not only the walls but also the floors. Make sure you have a good existing slab here or even a new one to make it effective. Bricks on edge or flags on soil will not do for habitable accommodation they will need to be removed and can be re-instated later.
Newton System 500 is ideal for waterproofing an existing basement
B. Waterproofing an Existing Basement – Cavity Drain Option
This would be the recommended solution. A drained cavity system is ideal. When waterproofing an existing basement with this system you will have a series of dimpled sheet membranes (usually 8mm in depth) which are mechanically fixed back to the building fabric using a waterproof MultiPlug (plug with a waterproof seal which acts like a rawl plug that you can fix into) then depending upon the finish required either a plain 8mm membrane with battens on plugs or a frame work tied back into the plugs or a meshed dimpled sheet which you can render onto. These systems act as water management system in your existing basement, moving any moisture or water behind the dimples and down to a internal drain which are installed at the wall floor junction. The drain can then either feed out to an open elevation or to an existing drain or a sump and pump.
Prior to using either system here’s a quick guide to the pro’s and cons of both.
Option A – Barrier -
The basement is now completely dry and protected by Newton System 500
Disadvantages - Any applied system will need preparation to the substrate prior to application which can prove very disruptive and messy and a real problem in general. Depending upon the substrate you may have to rake out the mortar joints, sand blast, scabble, hack off to get back to the substrate and prepare it ready for the applied barrier.
Another disadvantage is that wet trades are introduced, as you are potentially making a wet project even more damp by introducing a wet solution. This introduces problems with the waterproof barrier in terms of drying times. Drying out times are one of the most frustrating elements of the barrier approach this can significantly impede a building programme especially when it comes to be able to decorate the finish project
A final disadvantage here is the inability to fix things like shelving units into the barrier without puncturing the barrier. This will also invalidate any guarantee that was offered by a professional installer.
Advantages - The biggest advantage with the barrier is if placed perfectly it will negate the need for installing any form of sump system which saves on future maintenance costs.
Option B – The Internal Drained Cavity System
Advantages – The drained cavity has many advantages the main ones being:
- Minimal surface preparation required, if any
- Can be installed with no wet trades or drying out times
- Can be decorated quickly if an independent dry lining frame is used
- Does not push water to other areas of the project – as could happen with a barrier
- Can be used on all Listed Buildings as it is fully reversible – barriers are not
- Newton System 500 is maintainable – a requirement of BS8102:2009
- The integrity of the system is not dependent on100% defect free workmanship, which conventional tanking is
Disadvantages - The biggest disadvantage is that if you are below invert level you will need to use a pump which will mean ongoing maintenance.
So there you are some very important things to consider when choosing your basement waterproofing technique. The most important thing really is to make sure whatever system you use put into the budget to get a professional waterproofing contractor to undertake the works. Contact the manufacturer and check that they know the installer and can recommend them. This way you will have a course of action should the system be installed poorly.
The Alternative – A Combined System Option
At John Newton and Co. we believe that where possible the best waterproofing solution would be a combination of Type B and Type C ( defined by the BS8102:1990 Code of Practice for The Protection of below Ground Structures from Water From the Ground). In basic terms design and build the structure as strong as possible to form the primary resistance against water ingress but expect that some leakage may occur and install a contingency plan in the form of a Newton Cavity Drain Membrane System. As such we have the capability to design both a Type B waterproof structure and Type C internal waterproofing or a combination of both to suit the specific project requirement using our comprehensive product range.
Read more about Newton System 500 Cavity Drain Membrane Solution , and Watch Video
Further Information and Registered Installers
For further advice about waterproofing an existing basement or for a list of Newton Specialist Basement Contractors (NSBC) in your area, please ring Newtons on 020 7237 1217 or e-mail info@newton-membranes.co.uk
Warren Muschialli
Managing Director
John Newton & Company
Christopher Newton is presented with the BBA Certificate for Newton 201 RubberFlex
John Newton & Company are delighted to announce that Newton 201 RubberFlex has been awarded the BBA Certificate. RubberFlex is a single part, cold applied liquid waterproofing product which forms an elastomeric polyurethane membrane. It is ideal for waterproofing balconies and terraces, flat and inverted roofs, podium decks and high traffic areas.
David Bucknell, Technical Director, explains: “We needed a high quality roof and podium deck membrane to fill a gap in our product range. Newton 201 RubberFlex is the result of 18 months of development and testing. Being awarded a BBA Agrément Certificate allows us to provide a 25 year system that has demonstrable third party accreditation, giving our customers the confidence to specify this very important part of the overall waterproofing scheme.”
Key Benefits of Newton 201 RubberFlex:
- Durable – Has 25 year ETA certification
- 100% waterproof, but allows vapour diffusion
- Flexible – Resistant to movements and fissures in substrates
- Excellent adhesion to most substrates
- Resistant to impact, abrasion and completely UV stable
- Excellent resistance to water born micro-organisms
- Applied with airless spray squeegee, brush or roller
- Resistant to temperature variations maintaining its characteristics between -50ºC & 90ºC.
- Excellent resistance to chemical agents (cleaning products, etc.)
Newton 201 RubberFlex is ideal for waterproofing balconies and terraces
Typical Applications
- Balconies and terraces
- Flat and inverted roofs
- Podium decks
- High traffic areas: Stairs, Stadium concourses etc.
- Car parks
- Reservoirs and water holding vessels
- External tanking of basement walls
- Green-roof waterproofing membrane
- Swimming pools and pond liners
Newton 201 RubberFlex – View product datasheets and MSDS
For further information please ring 020 7237 1217 or e-mail info@newton-membranes.co.uk
New Build Basement Waterproofing – Design Strategy
On a daily basis we field enquiries and queries about the best way to make a new build basement waterproof. The waterproofing method adopted for a new build basement is indeed a very prudent and essential consideration as failure to make the correct decision can have a major impact on the effectiveness of the system, the potential use of the basement, the risk of consequential loss and avoiding liability dispute.
In terms of a strategy for waterproofing a new build basement or and existing basement we think the best way to view a project would be with consideration to recommendations made by the BS8102 : 2009 code of practice for ‘The Protection Of Below Ground Structures From Water From The Ground‘with the particular regard to:-
- The type or types of construction and waterproofing i.e
Type A (Barrier) protection
Type B (Structurally Integral) protection
Type C (Drained) protection
- Expect and design to expect a full head of hydrostatic water pressure where comprehensive site investigation regarding the geology, hydrogeology and topography both current and historical in relation to the below ground structure are not possible or the results are inconclusive.
- A “Waterproofing Specialist” should be included as a part of the design team so that an integrated waterproofing solution is created. All design decisions made by others that might have an impact on the waterproofing design should be brought to the attention of the waterproofing specialist/designer or installing contractors. Final decisions and any recommendations should be approved by the specialist.
- Consideration should be given to the use of combined protection (i.e. Type A and Type B, Type A and Type C or Type B and Type C) where in a single system: a) the likelihood of leaking is high. b) the consequences of leakage is unacceptable. c) additional vapour checks are necessary for a system where unacceptable water vapour transmission could otherwise occur.
Newtons Recommendations for New Build Basements
Newton System 500 is ideal for new build basements, and it fully conforms with BS8102:2009 regulations
At John Newton and Co. we believe that where possible the best combined system for a new build basement would be a combination of Type B and Type C Newton cavity drain membrane. In basic terms design and build the structure as strong as possible to form the primary resistance against water ingress but expect that some leakage may occur and install a contingency plan in the form of a Newton Cavity Drain Membrane System. We would advise against external impermeable membranes as a waterproofing element on their own or as part of a combined system which does not include a Type C element for new build basements for the following reasons:
- The use of external impermeable membranes may also be considered but with the important caveat that it potentially conflicts with the performance of water- resisting concrete. It is important to note also that, apart from the significant cost of membrane systems, their success depends on the highest quality of workmanship. The quality of the concrete surface, especially with bonded membranes such as bitumen sheeting, is critical and is not easy to achieve’ – IStructE document for ‘Design and construction of deep basements’.
- The judgement in the overview of the High Court case ‘Outwing vs.Weatherald’ agrees that ‘it is not reasonable or realistic to expect a bonded sheet membrane to be applied without any defects at all‘. Therefore if you incorporate a system which needs to be 100% defect free to work in your design and it fails you may be accountable.
- ‘Leaks caused by defects in external membranes are practically impossible to locate and repair, since the water invariably enters the structure internally through cracks or other vulnerable points, such as any movement joints, at some distance from the external defect‘.- IStructE document for ‘Design and construction of deep basements’.
- Because consideration should be given to the ‘form and feasibility of remedial work’ which means if there is a problem the ability to get back to the structure to diagnose and determine the cause and location and then rectify the problem. -BS8102 :2009
- Because consideration should be given to providing a ‘maintainable’ waterproofing system. – BS8102 :2009
There are of course other details in construction of a below ground structures like Podium Decks, Pile Caps, Intermediate floors etc which will require specific detailing with a combination of products and techniques all of which can be successfully dealt using products from the Newton range.
- Newton Basedrain allows water to be drained away from the new build basement
Whether waterproofing a new build basement or an existing structure, we will always recommend that the system be installed by one of our registered contractors. If they are involved in the design work early enough and then undertake the work they will ultimately be responsible for both the design and the installation which means that they will give meaningful, insured installation guarantees for the work they undertake and with most of our contractors having suitable PI allowing you to delegate the full design liability for the waterproofing aspect of the project to them. They are approved installers of a number of waterproofing products an as such will, without bias, put forward a design using the system or systems which they feel will be the most suitable trouble free and effective in the given circumstances. As stated above the BS8102 calls for a waterproofing specialist to consult as part of the design team and this can be a Newton Specialist Basement Contractor.They are aware that it is usually not possible to nominate the waterproofing specialist in a competitive tender situation but still would appreciate the opportunity to put forward their design and costs at an early stage.
Structural Waterproofing Design Strategy CPD
Click here to read more about our RIBA Approved CPD, and to book online. The presentation will provide an insight into the successful techniques that are now being utilised in the waterproofing industry.
New Build Waterproofing Case Studies
Multi-Level New Build Basement, Edinburgh Newton System 500 Allows For Highest Level of Waterproofing Protection in the UK
Multi-level new build basement, Edinburgh
This New Build basement was split onto two levels and was constructed from reinforced concrete panels bearing off a structural raft. The construction was cut into a sloping site, so that the back elevations of the project were earth retaining. Newton Specialist Basement Contractor, Richardson and Starling curtain hung Newton 508 cavity drain membrane to the concrete panels using Newton MultiPlug fixings. Newton Basedrain was installed in a horseshoe formation, ensuring that any water entering the structure would be diverted. The installation of the Newton System 500 water management system allowed for the highest level of waterproofing protection in the UK, and Richardson and Starling were able to offer full design and installation guarantees for this major new build basement development. The design fully complied with BS8102:2009 regulations.
Multi-Level New Build Basement, Edinburgh – Read More and Download Case Study
Residential New Build Basement, Kent Protected Internally with Newton System 500 and Externally with Newton System 400
Residential new build basement: Newton System 400 used externally, Newton System 500 used internally
This expansive new build basement was designed to become an integral part of a historic manor house. Newton Specialist Basement Contractor, Gulliver Timber Treatments used Newton 410 Geodrain as a drained waterproofing layer underneath the slab. Newton 902 Primer was then painted on the vertical walls as a Type A waterproofing protection. Adjacent to the footings two 110 perforated land drains were installed wrapped in Newton Geofabric to act as a filtration layer. The secondary system installed was the internal Newton System 500 drained cavity system. The installation of the dual Newton System 400 and System 500 means that the structure itself is kept dry and the external drained layer moves any water away from the structure before it comes into contact with the retaining walls. Gulliver Timber Treatments were able to offer full PI on design and offer peace of mind to the main contractor and client with insured backed guarantees. The design fully complied with BS8102:2009 regulations.
Residential New Build Basement, Kent – Read More and Download Case Study
Further New Build Basement Waterproofing Advice and Registered Installers
Please do not hesitate to contact us at Newton on 020 7237 1217 or info@newton-membranes.co.uk for any technical advice you may have or if you require a list of Newton Specialist Basement Contractors in your area for a new build basement, or for waterproofing an existing basement.
Damp Proofing vs Waterproofing – What is the best solution??
We are often asked to explain the difference between waterproofing and damp proofing and why one would be better than the other.
I think the best way to explain which one is the best in any given situation is to explain what the difference is between them.
There are some long and pretty exhaustive definitions of waterproofing and damp proofing available for you, however it is probably most easily explained by saying that you should firstly consider if your property/structure, whether it be new or old or still in the design board, has earth bearing against it which is higher than the internal floor level. If it has then your decision about damp proofing or waterproofing should be relatively easy because you should consider that the earth is a conduit or route for water to be delivered against the structure with the potential consequence of water ingress as a result.
Implications of BS8102 Waterproofing Regulations
- Newton System 800 damp proof membranes used to treat damp above ground
In this situation whether the ground is higher by 10cm or 10m we are governed by BS8102:2009 (Code of Practice for The Protection of Structures Against Water from the Ground) to waterproof this particular elevation. However if you can remove, dig or design the earth away from the building to a level which is below the internal floor level then you have effectively removed the risk of pressurised water ingress and therefore you have created a damp proofing situation and therefore a damp proofing solution can be applied to the affected areas.
Newton Systems for Damp Proofing and Waterproofing
So to summarise- if the external ground levels are higher than the internal floor levels a waterproofing system that can potentially deal with running water is required. In this instance we would generally recommend our Newton System 500 – Basement Waterproofing which deals with collects and manages water away from the structure. If the external ground levels are lower or can be reduced to be lower than internal levels then if dampness is diagnosed a damp proofing solution to deal with capillary held moisture only can be applied to the walls and floors. For this our System 800 – Damp Proofing membranes are ideal.
With the above in mind a word of warning, it is common for people to question why they should have a full waterproofing system if they only have marginally high ground levels and/or there is no running water present at the time. Whilst we understand their reticence we are governed by the British Code of Practice which also says that as well as natural ground water we must consider, fluctuating water tables, the future effects of climate change, temporary pockets of water and perched water tables and burst water mains as potential sources of water ingress.
The likely result of installing a damp proofing system where it should have been waterproofing because the ground levels are marginal or there is no running water can be serious water ingress or flooding and the consequential loss to the building owner or user can be devastating.
So in answer to the headline question, which is best damp proofing or waterproofing? The answer is that it is totally dependant on your individual situation but as a general rule of thumb if your building/structure is completely above ground the likelihood is that damp proofing will be best for you and if your building/structure is in any way below the ground it is likely that the best option will be waterproofing for that elevation at least.
We are always delighted to advise on any waterproofing or damp proofing projects, just call us on 020 7237 1217 and we will put you straight through to one of our experts or e-mail us on info@newton-membranes.co.uk .
What is BS 8102: 2009 and what does it mean to specifiers of structural waterproofing projects?
BS 8102 is a design document whose purpose is to inform the designer of the various methods of waterproofing available and to assist in the correct specification of those systems. Although other documents are available, BS 8102 is THE document that you should be familiar with. Although not UK law, failure to use BS 8102 could result in the designer having a difficult time in a court of law in the event of litigation following a waterproofing failure. It is almost certain that this code of practice will be used by the prosecuting expert witness.
The New British Standard BS 8102:2009 came into effect 30 November 2009 and supersedes BS 8102:1990
A number of new recent developments are addressed which are important when specifying, designing and constructing below ground structures including: Continue reading » » » »
UKAS Accredited Gas Barrier Certification For Newton 902
John Newton and Company are pleased to announce that Newton 902 Primer has been awarded a certificate confirming its suitability as a hydrocarbon gas barrier. The independent UK laboratory testing has proven the effectiveness of our 902 single component primer to be an effective gas barrier dealing with methane, radon and all other hydrocarbon gases.
Newton 902 Liquid Applied Radon, Gas and Vapour Barrier
With gas impermeability at more the seven times the Council Directive of 1999, Specifiers and Newton Specialist Basement Contractors can be confident that two coats totalling 1kgm2 of Newton 902 provides a membrane with incredibility low permeability for all hydrocarbon molecules, radon and methane gases and water vapour.
“Newton 902 Primer is a cost effective and versatile product which will allow contractors to supply a solution to deal with gas and moisture vapour problems in above ground situations with confidence.”
- Warren Muschialli, Managing Director, John Newton & Company
Download Certificate and Read More…
About Newton 902 Primer
Newton 902 is a single component high performance elastomeric liquid rubber membrane specifically designed for providing a radon, gas and vapour barrier to vertical and horizontal surfaces. It is a water based compound, formulated on a styrene-butadiene copolymer.
- Newton 902 Applied To New Build Construction
Newton 902 Primer can be used as a stand-alone radon, gas and vapour barrier, or as a primer for use with Newton System 200 Deck and Roofing membranes or Newton System 700 Floor Coatings, when radon, gas or vapour control is required.
Typical Applications
- Can be applied by airless spray, roller or brush to walls, floors or soffits
- Radon, Gas & Vapour barrier to concrete, masonry and brick substrates
- Radon, Gas & Vapour primer for other liquid coatings such as Newton System 200 and Newton System 700 high performance floor coatings
- Vertical waterproofing membrane when used with Newton System 400 vertical drainage systems
- Car parks
For a copy of our independent test report please visit the Newton 902 Product Page or call our London office on 020 7237 1217 for a hard copy.
The term ‘rising damp’ is used to describe the movement of water upwards through the building by capillary action from the ground. The water usually rises through fine cracks in the building. The rising damp then penetrates the internal surface, and there would often be a visible water mark rising up from the bottom of the wall. This moisture will then affect soluble salts from the building materials, and these can form visible deposits on the interior wall surface. A permanent rising damp treatment is required to resolve the problem. Newton Damp Proof Membranes are ideal as they form a barrier between the damp wall and the new wall surface, meaning the damp wall can dry out and the new wall surface is unaffected.
How High Does Rising Damp Actually Rise?
Rising Damp - typically damp rises about 1-1.5 metres
The height to which rising damp goes up the wall depends on a number of factors including the type of wall finish and the extent of the ground dampness. It is usual for rising damp to rise about 1 – 1.5 metres – though deposits of salts may be found higher in the wall.
A rising damp treatment is often required in older buildings, as houses built over a hundred years ago were built without a damp proof course. When there is either no damp proof course or a damp course which is damaged, rising damp can rise from the ground and then penetrate the internal walls. A damp course is essentially a waterproof barrier built into the walls.
Newton Damp Proof Membranes are a quick, easy and permanent rising damp treatment.
- Newton Damp Proof Membranes can either be installed along with a damp proof course or as a stand alone rising damp treatment
- By providing a physical and permanent barrier against rising dampness and the associated hygroscopic salts there is no better way to protect your internal finishes from spoiling
Using Newton Damp Proof Membranes To Treat Rising Damp
Newton 803 Newtonite is ideal for treating rising damp
Newton Damp Proof Membranes are quick and easy to install and form an ideal rising damp treatment
Newton 805 Newlath, and Newton 803 Newtonite damp proof membranes are High Density Polyethylene and Polypropylene membranes which are moulded into a stud formation. The membranes are offered up to the surface of the structure and secured using purpose made fixings.
This solution forms the ideal rising damp treatment as the damp proof membrane itself is completely impervious to dampness, moisture and moisture vapour, salts and other chemical contaminants.
How Does The Damp Proof Membrane Work?
The studs of the damp proof membrane serve to hold the product slightly away from the surface affected by rising damp – forming an air gap behind the membrane in which moisture and vapour can move unhindered. This means that the status quo of the wall remains unchanged so that the rising dampness is not moved higher or to an adjacent area. In addition our membranes use positive vapour pressure to ‘push’ dampness out of the property. Internal vapour pressure is greater than external vapour pressure. The internal pressure moves out to the lower pressure externally to try to equalise. In doing so, any dampness in the air gap between the external wall and the membrane is moved out of the property also. Full details of our damp proofing products can be found here: Newton Damp Proofing Products
Once applied our damp proof membranes can be simply finished using direct plasters, dab fixed plasterboard or used behind dry lining frames.
For rising damp treatment, Newton damp proof membranes act as an impermeable and permanent separation barrier which is guaranteed to prolong the longevity of internal finishes.
To place an order ring 020 7237 1217
Old houses often have damp problems due to the lack of a damp proof course
1. Look around your house – is there a defect, crack or blockage through which water could be getting in?
This could be a sign of a penetrating damp problem. Penetrating damp problems are caused by defects within the building or plumbing system where water has been able to come into the property. A water mark on an internal wall would be a sign of penetrating damp, and can give a good clue as to where the leak is getting through, so check externally in the same area as the watermark for any obvious problems.
DIY solutions -
- check the pipes, drainage and gutters for any blockages including moss, leaves, dead birds etc. Remove the blockage and you might find that the damp problem goes away easily!
- If the guttering is old, it might need to be replaced
- Ensure that any cracks in the walls or window frames are fixed
- Have a good look at the roof. Are there any loose slates? Problems with the roof are a common cause of penetrating damp problems
Continue reading » » » »
How Do I Deal With Penetrating Damp?
Penetrating Damp is present here
Penetrating damp is caused by problems with the building or plumbing issues. It is present where a problem has allowed water to enter the property. Properties near the sea or in exposed areas can suffer damp penetration from driving rain. Symptoms will usually only occur during wet weather, but it can affect roofs and ceilings, along with walls. A watermark might appear on the interior wall, and grow if the water continues to enter.
When there are problems with the roof or gutter, rainwater is in regular contact with the wall and causes saturation. Penetrating damp is far more common in older properties, which have solid walls. A new build property with cavity walls offers more protection and is unlikely to suffer from this type of defect. Penetrating damp can be tricky to diagnose, and often may require expert help.
It is always imperative to diagnose the cause of the dampness, for instance in a damp cellar it will usually be because the external ground levels are higher which means that earth bearing against the structure makes the wall damp. Above the ground buildings in exposed locations or that have porous building substrate can suffer from moisture penetration.
Above ground, Newton System 800 damp proof membranes are ideal for treating penetrating damp. In below ground areas, like a basement or cellar, Newton System 500 cavity drain waterproofing would be the ideal solution
Treating Penetrating Damp
A blocked gutter can cause penetrating damp
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The first step is to check everything in and around the property.
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Look at gutters, downpipes, flashing, rendering and window frames in detail.
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Always make sure that downpipes are unobstructed, and if required think about replacing the guttering.
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The rendering may have cracked, letting in water, or it might be necessary to re-seal any gaps around window frames.
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Check under the window sills to see if the drop groove is blocked with moss or dirt. If so, clear it thoroughly, the blockage might be causing water to seep in to the property.
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A badly fitting roofing felt on a flat roof will also cause damp, as will a cracked wall so these would need to be fixed.
Penetrating Damp and Newton Damp Proof Membranes
When the cause of penetrating damp has been rectified, the internal walls may still be damp and suffering from staining.
Newton 805 Newlath is ideal for treating damp walls
Newton System 800 Damp Proof Membranes are ideal for treating damp walls. The damp proof membranes prevent any moisture and moisture vapour and associated salts and contaminants within the structure affecting the internal finishes by providing a physical barrier between the old surface and the new finish.
This form of damp treatment significantly prolongs the longevity of the internal finishes whilst still allowing for natural evaporation of moisture from the structure and unhindered movement of air to take place in the gap provided by the studs of the membranes. There are many solutions on the market such as the injected damp course but we at John Newton & Company are of the firm opinion that only a waterproof membrane placed between the new surface and the old contaminated surface will result in a permanent solution.
A Guaranteed Damp Proofing Solution
One of Newtons Nationwide Registered Installers can offer a long term insured guarantee for the installation of our damp proofing membrane systems. Please ring 020 7237 1217 for a list of installers in your area.
