WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS

Basement
Basement Waterproofing
“We pride ourselves in
staying at the leading
edge of waterproofing
technology”
PVC Membranes have opened the way to all waterproofing sectors thanks to their many
advantages, such as flexibility and strong tear resistance, combined with superior
welding ability, low safety risks, ease of installation and excellent whole life costs.

The SINTEC range of waterproofing products have a long and successful history,
produced under strict quality control standards. Urdin synthetic waterproofing
membranes have been specifically developed to achieve a fast, sustainable, durable,
environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing waterproofing solution.

At SINTEC we endeavour to provide market leading waterproofing systems, tailored to

meet the needs of the client. With customer service and quality at the forefront of our
minds, we can assist with conception through to completion of projects. By assisting
with specifications, technical detailing, design and using an approved installer network
we are in a stronger position to offer specifiers the peace of mind that they will be
provided with a bespoke roofing solution to meet their specific requirements.

We pride ourselves in staying at the leading edge of waterproofing technology and given
the prestigious developments that have been completed using Urdin waterproofing
systems throughout the World, the Urdin name is synonymous with high quality single
ply waterproofing solutions.

This brochure is designed to give an overview of the installation, technical/design

details of the system, whilst evidencing a few projects that have been completed using
SINTEC Waterproofing systems.
 Index
1. Introduction
1.1 General Information 6
1.2 Requirements for construction 7
1.3 Waterproofing system 8

2. Products 10

3. Installation 12
3.1 General Information for Installation 12
3.2 Preparation of support 13
3.3 Protection Layer 14
3.4. General recommendations for installation of the membrane 14
3.5. Finishing details of waterproofing 16
3.6 Bindings in vertical areas 17
3.7. Details of waterproofing horizontal and vertical surfaces 18
3.8. Installation of waterproofing membrane 20
3.9. Compartmentalization of a surface with Urdin PVC waterstops: 21

4. Welding Method 24

5. Quality control 25

6. Cleaning and inspection of the completed waterproofing 25

7. Complete protection of the waterproofing 26

8. Other Standard Details 28

4
WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS
5
 1. Introduction

1.1 General Information

Normally building structures need to be located below

ground tight. The waterproofing works depend on the
type of structure to prevent leaks and to protect it from
negative influences by aggressive groundwater.

Urdin waterproofing membranes, very flexible system

and a layer or double layer if required, can protect a
structure against moisture, against water seepage and
groundwater against hydrostatic pressure.

In situations with membranes having water leaks

caused by mechanical damage, both for floating
systems monolayer or bilayer systems, the infiltrated
water can flow and spread out of control between the
membrane and the structure.

A partitioning system with PVC waterstops and

especially membrane system welded monolayer or
double layer, in combination with injection hoses that
allow the control and repair by injection if required
during its lifetime.

Additional advantages are the rapid installation work,

high crack bridging ability of the membranes installed
in addition to the low surface preparation needed.

Running this procedure describes the installation

procedure and the details of waterproofing
membranes.

Limitations in the installation of the membrane:

An effective system of waterproofing requires planning

and detailed specification by a designer before the
start of work on site installation of the membrane.

The structure must be designed and constructed so

that the waterproofing membrane can fulfil its function
properly during its long service life.

Installation work must be carried out by suitably

trained experts and using appropriate welders. Site
personnel must have been properly formed in the
welding of the membranes.

6
 WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS

1.2 Requirements for construction

The main criteria for the planning and installation

of Urdin T waterproofing membranes for protection
against groundwater below ground structures are:
• Type and purpose of the structure.
• Waterproofing of structures open pit or
underground between diaphragm walls or piles
screens.
• Circumference of waterproofing (the level of
waterproofing and completion).
• Type and design of retaining walls
• Foundation piles and pile caps.
• Lower the water table during construction.
• State support to be waterproofed.
• Details of insulation and requirements.
• Dimensions of the structure (length, width, depth).
• Water table (max., min., Average depth of
immersion of the structure).
• Policies groundwater (aggressive water, salt water,
contaminated water).
• Details and design of expansion joints.
• Phases of construction and joints in the structure
(construction planning in the work).
• System Requirements for single-layer or double
layer vacuum control.

All projecting elements, this is, shafts, conduits,

anchors, etc.., Must be corrosion proofed (for example
stainless steel). The elements must be designed with
tabs to allow a tight seal of the membranes around
these elements.

In order to avoid any damage to the membrane already

installed and to ensure proper operation, follow the
following recommendations:

• The structure must be designed to minimize

the movements due to geological changes to
settlements, shrinkage, etc..

• The concrete reinforcement bars must have a

minimum thickness of 30 mm below the surface.

• All steel components should be stainless steel or

corrosion resistant materials (as cast iron, stainless
steel, aluminium).

• The waterproofing support surface should be

smooth to avoid puncturing of the membrane under
the influence of pressure of the groundwater.
Basement Waterproofing 7
 1.3 Waterproofing system
The installation procedure for waterproofing membranes
depends on:
• Excavation system chosen: open with free access to
the interior or exterior walls without access to the
exterior walls.
• Project design.
• Moisture, water leaks or hydraulic pressure.
• Depth of immersion in the water table.
• Membrane type chosen and their methods of
attachment.
• Type of waterproofing system chosen, ie, drainage
system, waterstops Urdin PVC system, active
control system.
Drainage system:
Waterproofing against ground moisture and water
leaks using monolayer system without partitioning:
this system is not water resistant to hydrostatic
pressure.
Urdin PVC + waterstops: waterproofing hydrostatic
pressure, combining in a single layer both membranes
and waterstops - creating compartments (the most
common standard solution).
Active control system: Waterproofing hydrostatic
pressure, combining the double layer Urdin T and
Urdin PVC waterstops - compartments (allows a more
secure seal - continuous monitoring and vacuum
testing).
The following installation instructions are divided into
individual contracts for each type of project. Then, the
work steps must be defined according to the design
and project specifications.
8
Steps for installation of membranes:
Open access to the exterior walls:
• No retaining walls.
• With retaining walls (apart from the structure).
Installation sequence of the membrane in two phases:
1. Placement below the foundation slab.
• Construction of concrete formwork “in situ”.
2. Placement in walls and roof of the foundation slab.
Indoors without access to the exterior walls:
• Diaphragm walls.
• Screens piles.
Installation sequence of the membranes in a phase:
• Placement under the foundation slab and
retaining walls.
• Structure of slab foundations, walls and roof of
the foundation slab formwork “in situ”.
Suitable membrane thickness is given an estimate
based on the immersion depth and therefore the
potential of water pressure.
Humidity and water intake (combined with a drainage
system:
Hydrostatic pressure 0 m -10 m: 1.5 mm.
Hydrostatic pressure 10 m - 20 m: 2.0 mm.
Hydrostatic pressure greater than 20 m: 3.0 mm.
 WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS

Basement Waterproofing 9
10
 WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS

2. Products
PVC Sheet: 1,5 mm, 2mm or 3,0mm thickness synthetic PVC
signal layer membrane, twin colored. The PVC membrane
should meet the following physical properties:

1. Tensile Strength EN ISO R527: Longitudinal and

transversal minimum 15 N/mm2.

2. Elongation at Break EN ISO R527: Longitudinal and

transversal minimum 300%.

3. Impact strength DIN 16726: watertight at > 750 mm.

4. Joint Strength DIN 53455 I:A-VII: crack out of the joint.

5. Tear Resistance EN 12310: ≥80N.

6. Cold bending EN 495 - 5: free from cracks (- 25°C).

7. Puncture resistance EN ISO 12236: ≥ 1200mm.

8. Resistance to static punching EN ISO 12236: ≥0.35KN.

9. Hydrostatic pressure resistance DIN 16726 (72 hours at 4

bar): Waterproof.

10. Root resistance DIN 4062: No penetration.

Basement Waterproofing 11
 3. Installation

3.1 General Information for Installation

The installation of the membranes Urdin T should

be carried out by specialised applicators, technically
trained in welding and installation of membranes.

Prior to delivery of the work to the client, the applicator

must be able to inspect the work.

The installation work must be done in dry conditions

with ambient temperature of + 5 ° C minimum.

The rolls of membrane, geotextiles, etc. should be

stored on site in a horizontal and dry position protected
from the weather.

To prevent damage to the waterproofing membrane

and installed, it must prohibit access by outsiders to
the installation of the roof.

Operators and Applicators must wear suitable shoes

with rubber soles when travelling through the installed
membrane. Smoking should be banned or make
bonfires on site. Welding operators should be informed
of safety procedures of electrical welding.

In order to prevent mechanical damage by third

parties, the installed membranes must be protected
temporarily and be supervised until they are coated with
protective layers.
12

3.2 Preparation of support
Brackets below the foundation slab:
The surface of concrete or mortar should be smooth
(trowel finish) and are rounded corners and edges with
a minimum radius of 5 cm.
Any previous cementious coating support must be
removed by sanding or grit blasting, nails should be
removed and existing wires or loose aggregate.
Any protective mortar layer should have a minimum
thickness of 5 cm. If you need light armour
reinforcement, it shall have a minimum thickness of
3 cm. The maximum aggregate size of mortar coating
will not exceed 4 mm. Thoroughly clean all surfaces
using high pressure water. Remove any water excess
and to dry the entire surface using compressed air.
Holders of rehabilitated concrete structures:
Any existing coating on the support should be removed
by sanding or grit blasting; any nail or wire should
be removed. The concrete should be removed and
replaced again with a repair mortar.
Seal the fissures through which water leaks occur
either through waterproofing mortar, or by injection
with micro expansive mortars. The new coatings will
be applied to surfaces prepared with a maximum
aggregate size of 4 mm and its surface shall have a
trowel finish. The edges shall be rounded.
Carefully clean the surface by water at high pressure.
Remove any water excess and to dry the entire surface
using compressed air.
WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS
Supports new concrete structures:
The concrete surface should be smooth (trowel finish
framing or finishing first class) and the edges are
rounded. The reinforcing bars should have a minimum
thickness of 3 cm.
Any existing coating on the support should be removed
by sanding or grit blasting; any nail or wire should
be removed. The concrete should be removed and
replaced with a repair mortar. Seal the fissures through
which water leaks occur either through waterproofing
mortar, or by injection with micro expansive mortars.
The new coatings will be applied to surfaces prepared
with a maximum aggregate size of 4 mm and its
surface shall have a trowel finish. The edges shall be
rounded.
Carefully clean the surface by water at high pressure.
Remove any water excess and to dry the entire surface
using compressed air.
Support shotcrete / gunite:
The irregular surface of the shotcrete should not
have an irregularity greater than 5:1 length-depth
and minimum radius should be 20 cm. The surface
should have no broken aggregate. Water leaks should
be local, well sealed with a waterproof mortar, or
drain through drain pipes. We recommend to apply
a thin layer of shotcrete with a thickness of 5 cm and
a maximum aggregate size not exceeding 4 mm (if
the above requirements of shotcrete cannot be met).
Steel elements (anchors, bolts, distribution plates,
etc.) must be coated with at least 5 cm. The shotcrete
surface must be clean (free of loose particles, nails,
wire, etc).
Basement Waterproofing 13
 3.3 Protection Layer
The waterproofing membrane must be protected with a
layer of geotextile against the hard media. The geotextile
should be of nonwoven polypropylene; fixed mechanically
by needling, or cured thermally (chemically cured
geotextiles are not compatible with membranes and
therefore should not be used).
The geotextile must have a weight of 350 g/m2 for use
on smooth surfaces of concrete. Geotextiles should be
placed floating and must be overlapped 100 mm minimum
horizontal areas and free of loose particles. The physical
properties of geotextiles shall meet local regulations
relevant to the protection of waterproofing membrane
systems.

3.4 General recommendations for

installation of the membrane
The installation procedure of waterproofing membranes
depends on:
• Method of excavation (open pit / interior without
free access).
• Project design.
• Membrane type chosen and its method of
attachment.
• Waterproofing system chosen (single layer / dual
layer).
Broadly speaking we can consider the next steps regularly:
Open pit System:
The structure is built in an open space with free access
to the edges of the slabs and exterior walls or the land is
contained by piling metal providing a space between the
exterior walls and retaining walls. Membrane should be
installed in two phases:
a. Under the slab, before continuing to build.
b. In exterior walls.

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 WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS

Phase 1 (horizontally):
• Installation of the geotextile on the support prepared.
• Installation of the waterproofing membrane,
including details.
• Installation of the second layer of waterproofing
membrane, including details (if so specified).
• Training of the compartments (if so specified).
• Preparation of the ends of the membranes to the
intersection with the walls - installation of protective
layers on the membrane.
Construction of the foundation slab and walls

Phase 2 (vertical):
• Installing geotextile.
• Installation of the membrane, including details
- welding of the membrane prepared with the
intersection of the walls.
• Installation of the second layer of waterproofing
membrane, including details (if so specified).
• Protective coating on the membrane placed on
project specification.

Internal excavation system without free access:

The structure is built in an excavated space, delimited by
screens piles or diaphragm walls. The installation of the
membrane takes place in a phase: below the foundation
slab (horizontal) and the retaining walls (vertical), before
the shuttering the concrete structure.
Horizontal:
• Installing geotextile.
• Installation of the waterproofing membrane,
including details
• Installation of the second layer of waterproofing
membrane, including details (if so specified).
• Formation of compartments (if so specified).
• Preparation of the edges of the membrane for
overlapping and welding of the membranes to the
walls - installation of the protective layer of the
membrane.
Vertical:
• Installing geotextile.
• Installation of the waterproofing membrane,
including details of the membrane and sealing the
joints between vertical and horizontal cladding.
• Installation of the second layer of waterproofing
membrane, including details (if so specified).
• Formation of compartments (if so specified).
Construction of the foundation slab and walls for complete
waterproofing:
The above recommendations are divided into individual
contracts with several mounting options, applicable to the
design of each project. The sequence should come defined
by the project specifications.
Basement Waterproofing 15
 3.5 Finishing details of waterproofing:

When not specified in relevant legislation, waterproofing

must be at least 1.0 m above the high water table and a
minimum of 0.15 m above ground. The vertical sealing
can be placed with a line of fixations at the upper edge
of the sheet and leave hanging long as the height does
not exceed 4 meters (exception: partitioning systems
with strips of PVC). If the height of waterproofing is
over 4 meters, it requires a linear term fixation, or
fixation point with a maximum vertical height of 2.0
meters.
PVC co laminated metal sheets:

Unwrap and place the geotextile protection layer,

overlap 100 mm plates and secure with PVC co
laminated metal sheets and let loose hanging on the
wall. The top of the profile must be placed at least 1.0
m above the high water table and 0.15 m above ground.
Between profiles should leave a gap of 5 mm. The
profiles must be fixed with countersunk screws
(stainless steel) and washers to reinforcement. The
gaps between profiles should be covered with adhesive
patches 20 mm. The profiles should not cross expansion
joints. The gap between the concrete surface and
the profile must be sealed with permanently elastic
silicone putty.
Before applying the sealer should be applied primer
to ensure adhesion between the sealant and support.
Once the membrane is welded to the profile, protect
the waterproofing from UV and mechanical damage.
Urdin PVC waterstop:

16

Detail: wall watertight with Urdin PVC waterstop
A
B mortar, etc. and free from oils and fats. Weld by hot
C waterstops. Once the membranes are attached to PVC
D and mechanical damage.
E
3.6 Bindings in vertical areas:
Intermediate fixings for walls: necessary for
waterproofing walls heights over 4 meters and for
systems with compartmentalization
PVC co laminated metal sheets: profiles should be
set in horizontal and vertical distance than 2.0 meters
above the geotextile hung. Between profiles should
leave a gap of 5 mm. The profiles must be fixed by
countersunk screws and washers to reinforcement.
The gaps between profiles should be covered with
adhesive pads of 20mm. The profiles should not cross
expansion joints. Once placed colaminated profiles,
hot-air welded waterproof membrane to co-rolling
PVC coated profile.
About Urdin PVC waterstop: place the Urdin PVC
waterstop (one side with grooves) with the flat side
attached to the casing, hot-air welding (also for
cross joints and expansion joints). The placement
of the PVC films must be made to the specifications
of compartmentalization. After the concrete work,
unroll and place the geotextiles, provisionally fixed
(for example, with adhesive tape), respectively,
ending below the PVC tape and leaving loose. The flat
face of the PVC tape must be clean (dust, cement,
etc.) and free from oils or fats. Hot Air weld the
waterproofing membrane on the tapes (PVC
membrane released).
WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS
Mounting the Urdin PVC waterstop with the flat side
against the form, the welds will be made with hot
air (also for T-joints and expansion joints between
elements).
The upper end of the belt must be positioned at
least 1.0 m above the water table and at least 0.15
m above ground. After the concrete work, unrolling
and placing the geotextiles, fixed temporarily (for
example, with adhesive tape), respectively, terminate
below the PVC tape and let loose. The flat face of
the belts should be clean and free of dust, cement,
air Urdin T waterproofing membrane to the Urdin PVC
tapes, waterproofing should be to protect against UV
A > Hot air welding between Urdin T SL and Urdin PVC waterstop
B > Urdin PVC waterstops
C > Urdin T SL PVC waterproofing membrane
D > Geotextile protection layer
E > Concrete
Punctual fixings on shotcrete with URDIN rondels: Fix
PVC discs (Ø 80 mm Urdin rondels) on the geotextile in
the shotcrete / gunite, or concrete (this method also
sets the geotextile). To fix the PVC discs shotcrete used,
nail guns, or with screws in holes drilled previously in
the concrete. The minimum distance grid should be
fixings for each membrane width in the horizontal
direction and 2.0 m in vertical direction. Then, hot
air weld the waterproofing membrane to discs.
Point fixings with handles made from strips of
membrane Urdin T: cut strips of the membrane
roll Urdin T (size approx. 50 mm x200 mm). Fix the
membrane strips Urdin T on geotextile shotcrete /
gunite or concrete (the geotextile is also attached to this
operation). Fixation of the membrane strips shotcrete
should be performed using nail guns, drills or pins
in the concrete. Drill distance should be at least two
fasteners per width. Roll membrane horizontally and
at most 2.0m in vertical. Weld by hot air the membrane
to the strips.
Attachments in the vertical corners:
PVC co laminated metal sheets: between profiles
should leave a gap of 5 mm. The profiles must be fixed
by stainless steel countersunk screws and washers on
the geotextile reinforced concrete. The gaps between
profiles should be covered with adhesive patches 20
mm. Then, weld the waterproofing membrane by co-
rolling hot air views.
Basement Waterproofing 17
 3.7 Details of waterproofing horizontal and
vertical surfaces:
Intersection of the membrane between horizontal and
vertical surfaces
Below the foundation slab (suitable only for the
monolayer system):
Extend waterproofing membrane on the geotextile
and the mortar coating under the foundation slab
and hot air weld (horizontal). Leave approximately 1
m additional membrane on the line of intersection.
Extend a band of geotextile (of approximately 0.40 m
in width) at the intersection line on the membrane in
place. The excess of 1 m left of the membrane coating
will bend the band of fabric and then be welded to the
membrane by hot air.
After installation of the compartment, extend the
geotextile placed over the waterproofing membrane
(including provisional bending), and cover with a PE
film of 0.30 mm (with overlap sealed with adhesive
tape), or alternatively with a Urdin PVC protective
membrane.
Apply a protective layer of mortar on the PE film
(minimum cement content 300 kg/m3, aggregates ≤
Ø 4 mm, minimum thickness 5 cm).
After completing the work of the slab and walls,
carefully remove the layers of protection (mortar lining,
geotextile). The provisional bending of the membrane
is cut and removed the band of geotextile. Then, hot
air weld the membrane vertically on the horizontal
membrane clean. All edges are sealed.

In retaining walls or in the forms of the foundation slab:

Expand and hot air weld the membrane (horizontal) on
the geotextile and mortar coating under the foundation
Detail: Intersection of wall and floor with Urdin
slab. Membrane should extend a provisional basis at
PVC waterstop
the end of the retaining wall falling to 0.50 m above
the top face of the foundation slab and fix temporarily
retaining wall or to the form of the foundation slab.
If you choose the double layer system, install the
A
second layer of waterproofing membrane.
After installation of compartmentalisation, extend over
the waterproofing membrane geotextile prepared, to
B
be overlapped with a PE film of 0.30 mm (their overlap
sealed with adhesive tape), or alternately by Urdin PVC
C protective membrane.
Place a protective layer of mortar on the PE film
D (minimum cement content 300 kg/m3, arid ≤ Ø 4 mm,
minimum thickness 5 cm).
E
A> Concrete
B> Urdin PVC waterstops
H
C> Urdin T SL PVC waterproofing membrane
D> Geotextile protection layer
G
E> Concrete
F> Load wall: reinforced concrete
F
G> Geotextile+(PE or Urdin PVC) protection layer
H> Mortar protection layer
I
I > Concrete

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 WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS

Penetrations in the membrane: Detail: crossing pipes in positive waterproofing

The steel surface must be smooth, be clean, free of oils with double clamp
and fats. Create washers (minimum one piece for each
element through), made with waterproof membrane. A
Cut and open the size of the penetration in the
waterproofing membrane. Do not allow development
overlaps between the rolls of membrane penetration.
The lap welds should end at the outer edge of the B
ridges, where to install the double layer.
C

E
F
G
I
H

J
D
Hot air weld the washers prepared for penetrations of
the waterproofing membrane. Locate pins and cut with K
a knife necessary holes for the bolts (diameter of the
perforations with knife as the diameter of the bolts).
L
The piece prepared in the waterproofing membrane,
including the washers will slide soldered to the base
flange and fixed to the flange (membrane should not
be loose nor wrinkles). A> Geotextile protection layer
B> Urdin T SL PVC waterproofing membrane
Bridge expansion joints:
C> Geotextile+(PE or Urdin PVC) protection layer
Installation of a steel expansion joints on the walls and
D> Clamp, fixed with stainless steel
the floor slabs below ground (for structures without
partitioning waterproofing system): E> Flat joint
F> Free clamp
Place PVC co laminated metal sheets (2000 mm x
G> Stainless Steel screw with clamp and washer
1000 mm), or alternatively can be used stainless steel
plates. H> Watertight welding
I > Stainless Seel tube
The fasteners must be made by countersunk screws
J > Urdin T SL membrane piece, with holes prepared for screws
and washers. Between PVC co laminated metal sheets
must leave a gap of 2-3 mm, which must be coated K > Hot air welding
with adhesive tape of 20 mm. L > Concrete

Basement Waterproofing 19
 3.8 Installation of the waterproofing Check geotextiles surfaces and metal profiles, etc for
membrane: removal of debris or sharp objects before installing the
membrane.

Unroll membrane and place vertically on the walls

according to the method of fixing chosen:
• PVC co laminated metal sheets: hot-air welding
of the Urdin T to the PVC co laminated metal
sheets.
• Aluminium profiles: as above description.
• Aluminium plates: as above description.
• Urdin rondels: as above description.
• Urdin PVC waterstops surface: as above
description.
• Sealing strips stuck together: as described
above.
Vertical Waterproofing:
Process sequence:
1. Membranes cut in the size needed about.
2. Consider minimum 80 mm overlap between
membranes.
3. Membranes fixed to the method of fixing chosen on
the fixing points of the intermediate and end wall.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 with the next roll of membrane.
5. Welding vertical overlaps the membrane from
bottom to top of the membrane installed in the
details preparations.
6. Repeat steps 1-5 for the second layer, specifying
the double layer.
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 WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS

Horizontal Waterproofing: 3.9 Compartmentalization of a surface with

Urdin PVC waterstops:

Urdin PVC waterstops for compartmentalisation are

Check geotextiles surfaces and metal profiles, etc for
removal of debris or sharp objects before installing the
membrane.
Irregular shapes of the foundation slab must take
into account for determining the direction of the
membrane (for example, to optimize the consumption
of minimizing excess membrane).
made of plasticized PVC hot air weldable, compatible
with PVC waterproofing membrane and grooves on
one side strips. Depending on the type of structures,
good waterproofing membranes must be welded using
hot air at the tapes of PVC with grooves, or ribbons
of PVC must be welded using hot air at waterproofing
membranes:

Process sequence:
1. Membranes cut in the size needed about.
2. Consider minimum 80 mm overlap between
membranes.
3. Unwrap and place the membrane and consider a
bending of the membrane at the intersection with
upright waterproofing.
Detail: pavement with Urdin PVC waterstops
4. Place temporarily ballasted membrane.
A B C E D H F
5. Repeat steps 1-4 with the following membrane,
welding membrane overlaps the details attached to
the membrane preparations and welding the folded
waterproofing membrane with the vertical edges of
the foundation slab.
6. Repeat steps 1-5 for the second layer, specifying
the double layer.

A> Concrete
B> Geotextile protection layer
C> Urdin T SL PVC waterproofing membrane
D> Geotextile+(PE or Urdin PVC) protection layer
E> Urdin PVC waterstops
F> Concrete
G> Consolidated land
H> Mortar protection layer

Basement Waterproofing 21
 Detail: compartments in walls with Urdin PVC Waterproofing system for dual-layer, each
waterstops welded to Urdin T SL membrane compartment must be made to the following
specifications:
Depending on the type of structure and planning of
the work, paving and laying of Urdin PVC waterstops
A
should be planned by the consultant. PVC tapes
surface should be prepared and set in concrete work
E must be firmly attached to the formwork.
1. Compartments between the membrane layers,
B every area not more than 100 m2
2. Compartments PVC tapes in the surface layer of
C the membrane: each area should not be greater
than 600 m2

F 3. Compartments PVC tapes in the surface layer of

the membrane: each area should not be greater
than 400 m2
G
4. Position of control and injection tubes

C
5. Position of the welds between the layers of
membranes and PVC tape
6. Position of the welds between the layers of
membranes

A> Brick or Concrete

B> Geotextile protection layer
C> Urdin T SL PVC waterproofing membrane
D> Geotextile protection layer
E> Concrete
F> Urdin PVC waterstops
G> Hot air welding between Urdin T SL membranes

For single layer waterproofing system, each

compartment must be no greater than 150 m2 area.
Depending on the type of structure and planning of
the work, paving and laying of Urdin PVC waterstops
should be planned by the consultant.
PVC tapes surface should be prepared and set
in concrete work must be firmly attached to the
formwork. PVC tapes with a cross or T must be welded
in the factory or prepared by qualified workers in a
local workshop.
Hot air welding the waterproofing membranes on the
surface to the Urdin PVC waterstops on concrete:
Place a geotextile soft layer on the concrete substrate,
provisionally fixed (for example with adhesive tape),
ending close to the PVC films. The flat surface of the
Urdin PVC waterstop must be clean (dust, cement, etc.)
And free from oils and fats. Any projection in the welding
zone of the Urdin PVC waterstop should be removed
with a knife. Weld waterproofing membranes Urdin T
on Urdin PVC waterstops. Weld strips of waterproofing
membrane (with the edge of the membrane on both
sides of the boards) on Urdin PVC waterstops. The
hollow membrane remaining on the board should be
covered with a membrane strip (width> 20 cm) to be
welded to both sides of the membrane.

22
 WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS

Hot air welding of Urdin PVC waterstop on Detail: compartments with control tube/injection
waterproofing membranes installed: trumpets
The installed membrane surface should be clean and
free from oils and fats. A
Inspect welds to check the tightness and the edge of
the membrane should chamfer (for example, peeling
knives). The salient elements of Urdin PVC waterstop
should be cut with knives. The Urdin PVC waterstops
B
can be welded directly to the membrane, if the sides of
the PVC tape having at least 50 mm in excess may be C
used a soldering iron. The direct soldier of Urdin PVC
waterstops less than 50 mm of excess will be made by
a semiautomatic machine.
The Urdin T bands of the waterproofing membrane D
must be welded previously on the flat face of Urdin I
PVC waterstops, if this type of tool is not available and F
G
the remaining tape is less than 50 mm. H
E
J
The procedural steps are:
Hot air welding of bands of waterproofing membrane:
A> Cover
Urdin PVC waterstop (width 20 cm:≤10 cm welded
onto the PVC tape /≥10 cm for a subsequent welded B> Steel tube with internal threads, length depending on the wall
onto the waterproofing membrane) on both flat C> Concrete
sides of the PVC membrane. The welds of the bands D> Clamps
for waterproofing membranes must be performed E> Trumpet, hot air welded in several points to Urdin T SL
against each other (without overlapping), staggered to waterproofing membrane
the joints of PVC tape. PVC tapes must be prepared by F> Urdin T SL PVC waterproofing membrane
hot air welded with the bending of bands remaining G> Geotextile+(PE or Urdin PVC) protection layer
membranes. H> Geotextile protection layer
I > Mortar
Installing the Control Socket or Trumpets (re-
injectable hoses): J> Waterproofing support

Control and Injection tubes PVC connected by clamps

to the metal or plastic. Its overall length is equivalent
to the thickness of the wall or the slab. The purpose
of these tubes are access control tightness and, if
necessary, the injection of grout into each of the
compartments. The proper functioning of each of
these tubes requires at least three tubes in each
compartment, one in the lowest point, another in the
middle and one at the top. The position of the openings
of the tubes on the inner side of the structure must
be easily accessible for later use. The tubes should
be placed on the rebar. The trumpets of PVC must
be secured to the formwork or weld on time the
waterproofing membrane on already installed. Those
hoses must be secured during casting so that the
mixture does not enter the tubes.

23
 4. Welding Method

The Urdin T membranes can be welded using hot air

welding machines.
• The welds in the overlaps of the membranes should
be in all cases at least 80 mm.
• The width, once the welding (single or double)
should be at least 30 mm.
• Before starting the welding process and the
membrane surface must be dry, clean, free from
dust, oil and grease, etc..
• Before welding work, you must perform tests on
samples of the sheet to determine the temperature
of the machine and welding speed.
• For continuous welding is recommended for
welding equipment connected to separate circuits
or using its own generator (automatic welding
machine: 360 V, manual welding gun: 220 V)
• Must train machine operators for welding
machines using hot air welding, according to
current regulations for electrical equipment in wet
environments.

Machines and tools recommended

Manual welding:
• Manual welding machine.
• Nozzles for hot air of 40 mm and 20 mm or 30 mm
multipurpose nozzles.
• Manual pressure roller silica width 20 mm and 40
mm.
• Backup heating element.

Semiautomatic welding machines for horizontal and

vertical surfaces:
• Manual machine semi-automatic, self-propelled

Automatic welding machine for horizontal and vertical

surfaces:
• Automatic machine, self-propelled

24

5. Quality control
Welding tests
Verify that all welds are tight.
The test methods depend on the equipment available
and / or customer specifications.
Test methods:
Visual inspection using a special screwdriver:
• The heated air welds are performed correctly; show
a “bead” on the edge of the weld. Irregularities
or interruptions in the “belt” can be signs of air
bubbles or cavities in the weld.
• Insert the tip of the screwdriver with a light
pressure along the edge of the weld and visually
check.
• Any cavity will be corrected by a hand gun and a roll
of 20 mm silicone.
Physical testing in the test kit with air pressure (for
double welding):
• All double welds have to be tested with an assay kit
with pressurized air, which consists of a needle,
a reversible flow valve; a manometer and an air
pressure pump (manual or electric).
• Seal air duct placing two clamps at both ends.
• Meter test needle, connected to the reversible
flow valve and pressure gauge at the end of a
welding overlap between membranes. Connect the
needle to test the air pressure pump manually or
electrically.
• Inflate the air duct to a pressure of 2.0 bar. Close
the valve. Disconnect the pump from the needle
test. Check the air pressure after 20 minutes.
• The weld can be considered watertight if the
pressure drop of air is less than 20%. Release the
clamps at the ends of the membrane.
6. Cleaning and
inspection of
the completed
waterproofing
WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS
weld a patch by hot air with a push mower over
the hole left by the needle in the membrane. Mark
watertight welds tested with a marker. Write the
results on the test sheet.
Repeat this method for all double welds:
• If double welding test fails, inflate the channel
again and look for leaks. Once the fault is detected,
repair with a patch of membrane welded by hot air
machine manual.
• Any hole or capillary should be rectified with a
manual welding machine with a hot air and roller
20 mm silicone welding temperature.
Physical check by a vacuum chamber:
This check requires the following test equipment:
• Vacuum chamber (Plexiglas, metal frame with a
rubber reversible flow valve, pressure gauge, hose
connection).
• Vacuum pump.
• Soap solution.
• Scoreboard (chalk only).
Procedure:
• Apply the soap solution on the edge of the weld in
the area of action of the vacuum chamber.
• Place the bell jar over the area.
• Visual inspection under the bell jar (bubbles in the
soapy solution show problems in welding).
• Remove the vacuum chamber and clean the
solution with a cloth.
• Any cavity is corrected by a gun and a silicone roller
of 20 mm at the brazing temperature.
Clean and check the membrane surface before
installation of the protective layers on the membrane.
This check may be performed upon completion of a
section of the membrane or after completing the
whole area.
The customer must inspect and test the waterproofing
work completed. Be sure to leave a written inspection
report signed by both parties.
The waterproofing applicator must retain the original
labels (including batch number) of the order and rolls
of membranes.
Basement Waterproofing 25
 7. Complete
protection of the
waterproofing

Preparatory work prior to the installation of protection:

The membrane surface must be clean (free of loose
particles, sand, rubble, etc).
Installation of PVC belts and hoses and injection
control (if the system is specified by partitioning) must
be welded, tested and approved.

26
 WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS

Open pit • Extend a polyethylene film of 0.30 mm, as a

separating layer of geotextile, 100 mm overlapped
Below the foundation slab:
and seal with tape.
• Extend 350 g/m2 geotextile with minimum
• Apply layer of mortar (minimum cement content
overlap of 100 mm. Urdin PVC waterstops for
of 300 kg/m3, at least 50 mm thick, reinforced with
compartmentalisation should be left unprotected.
a mesh if necessary). Urdin PVC waterstops for
Use sandbags as temporary ballast for the
compartmentalisation should be left unprotected /
geotextiles.
exposed.
• Alternatively, apply a protective membrane Urdin
with an overlap of 80 mm minimum. Urdin PVC In retaining walls:
waterstops should be left unprotected. Using
• Place the concrete directly on the waterproofing
sandbags as provisional ballast protective
membrane.
membranes.
• For the construction of the expansion joints
• Extend a polyethylene film of 0.30 mm, as a
required soft forms on the membrane (for example,
separating layer of geotextile 100 mm and sealing
cut longitudinally a plastic hose and use it to form).
overlapping it with tape.
• Install the reinforcing bars with spacers (of material
• Apply the protective layer of mortar (minimum
compatible with the plasticized PVC) leaving at least
cement content of 300 kg/m3, at least 50 mm thick,
50 mm from the surface of the membrane.
reinforced with a mesh if necessary). Urdin PVC
waterstops should be left unprotected. • Placement of temporary non flammable mineral
wool material to protect the membrane from
In exterior walls: potential sparks becoming from the welding of the
rebar.
• Set at the top of the wall a layer of geotextile 350 g/
m2, overlapping 100 mm. • In special cases or on request, place a layer of
shotcrete as a protective layer with minimum
• Alternatively, hang the protective membranes Urdin
thickness of 50 mm, reinforced with a lightweight
with an overlap of 80 mm.
mesh and fibreglass mesh (Urdin PVC waterstops
• Build screed factory for waterproofing. for the partitioning must be unprotected).
• Alternatively, perform a gunned minimum thickness
50 mm, with a light mesh reinforcing fibreglass Deck slabs below grade:
mesh, suspended from the upper wall. • Spread a layer of 350 g/m2 geotextile overlapping it
at least 100 mm.
In slabs covered under the ground level:
• Place sandbags as ballast interim geotextile.
• Spread a layer of 350 g/m2 geotextile with minimum
• Alternatively, extend the protective membranes
overlap of 100 mm.
Urdin overlapping 80 mm. Place sandbags as
• Place temporary ballast with sand bags on the temporary ballast.
geotextile.
• Extending a polyethylene film of 0.30 mm, as a
• Alternatively, place the membranes of Urdin separating layer of geotextile, 100 mm overlapped,
protection overlaps 80 mm. and seal with tape.
• Extending a polyethylene film of 0.30 mm, as a • Apply layer of mortar (minimum cement content of
separating layer of geotextile, 100 mm overlapped 300 kg/m3, at least 50 mm thick, reinforced with a
and seal with tape. mesh if necessary).
• Apply the protective layer of mortar (minimum
cement content of 300 kg/m3, at least 50 mm thick,
reinforced with a mesh if necessary).

Excavations indoors without free access:

Below foundation slabs:
• Spread a layer of 350 g/m2 geotextile with minimum
overlap of 100 mm. Urdin PVC waterstops should be
left unprotected. Place temporary ballast with sand
bags on the geotextile.
• Alternatively, extend protective membranes Urdin
overlapping 80 mm. Urdin PVC waterstops for
compartmentalisation should be left unprotected.
Place sandbags as temporary ballast.
Basement Waterproofing 27
 8. Other
Standard
Details
Detail: Chamber A> Concrete
B> Rubber sealing ring
C> Screws
O F P MK E N CD B G LJ H I A
D> Clamps for the cover, watertight sealing
E> Metal tubes
F> Geotextile protection layer
G> Urdin T SL PVC waterproofing membrane
H> Geotextile+(PE or Urdin PVC) protection layer
I > Mortar protection layer
J> Pressure clamp
K> Clamp prepared for screwing, ring watertight welded to the
metal tube
L> Additional membrane layer for sealing with lock washers
M> Flat joint
N> Drainage hole
O> Drainage layer
P> Sleeve anchor

Detail: intersection of wall and floor with Urdin

PVC waterstop (sealing the wall from the
outside in a second step)
A
B

D
E
F A> Urdin T SL PVC waterproofing membrane
B> Geotextile or Urdin PVC protection layer
C> Hot air welding between Urdin T SL and Urdin PVC waterstop
D> Hot air welding between Urdin T SL membranes
E> Concrete
I
F> Urdin PVC waterstops
H
G> Urdin T SL PVC waterproofing membrane
G H> Geotextile+(PE or Urdin) protection layer
J I > Mortar protection layer
K J> Geotextile protection layer
K> Concrete

28
 WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS

Detail: Wall penetrations, change from water A> Sealant

pressure to no water pressure B> Metal penetration
C> Geotextile or Urdin PVC protection layer
A D> Urdin T SL PVC waterproofing membrane
E> Geotextile protection layer
B F> Urdin T SL PVC waterproofing membrane
G> Urdin PVC waterstops
C
D H> Concrete
E I > Shotcrete or concrete formwork
Y J> Loadwall: reinforced concrete
K> Injection and control hose, sealed in several points to
F
Urdin T SL membrane
L> Water table
X
X> Negative application of Urdin T SL membrane
E
Y> Positive application of Urdin T SL membrane
F
G

H
I
J
K
L

Basement Waterproofing 29
“Your best choice for
a reliable and long
lasting basement
waterproofing”
WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS

Pol. Ind. JUNDIZ, Lermandabide, 8

Arroxeta, Pab. 3-4 C - 01015 Vitoria-Gasteiz (Spain)
Tel.: +34 945 24 47 62 - Fax: +34 945 20 04 56
info@sintecproof.com - www.sintecproof.com