In principle all concrete floors should include a damp proof membrane across the whole floor area and this should be linked to the damp proof courses in the surrounding walls to provide continuity of protection against ground moisture. It follows that any breaks, damage or lack of membrane means that concrete’s porous nature will allow damp to seep up through the floor. This dampness can cause issues with mould especially if you have carpets on top of the concrete. Although this problem is usually associated with older properties, relatively new buildings can also suffer.
Because the source of failure is often so difficult to pinpoint, you could be looking at having to renew the floor in its entirety. This work can be costly and very disruptive. An alternative method is to apply damp proof coatings to the surface.
There are two types of floor coatings that we use one is a Cementitious the other is Epoxy Resin.
Damp and Porous Concrete
Dampproofed and sealed surface.
Cementitious
This system uses specially formulated cement incorporating waterproof bonding agents. It is used in bathrooms and kitchens which have a defective membrane or where under floor pipes have leaked into concrete. When finished it provides an ideal surface for re-tiling of floors.
Epoxy Resin
The epoxy resin coating is a two pack system used in larger floor areas. It is often used when existing floor coverings are being replaced and areas are found to be in a damp condition. It is a cost effective method of dampproofing as opposed to floor replacement.
Damp Proofing Floors
Firstly we would need to have access to the whole floor area. Ie up to the surrounding walls. The floor surface is then cleaned and vacuumed . We then apply two coats of Wykamol EP40 epoxy resin or Cementitious floor coating This will provide a tough and long lasting damp proof membrane coating on the surface of the concrete, Floor surfaces can then be finished ie; using carpets, tiles or timber flooring.
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11A Aquastop Tanking, TF IKOpro Cellar Proof-en, microtech-epoxy-ep40
