In many situations where high ground levels or changes in ground level are present, such as lower ground floor flats, earth retaining walls and many basements or garden flats, walls will require structural waterproofing (commonly referred to as tanking) to provide a dry internal finish.

Structural waterproofing is normally carried out in conjunction with chemical damp proofing. The chemical damp proof course is installed above the external ground level and the masonry below is waterproofed using a cementicious compound such a Kenwood SWS (Structural Waterproofing System) or Kenwood Rapid, which is designed to withstanding the water pressure adjacent and prevent the passage of water.

Effective structural waterproofing requires the brickwork to be suitably prepared by removal of existing paints and plaster etc., from the walls to be treated.

Kenwood remove plaster and paint finishes using a range of specialist equipment, including pneumatic chiselling machines, needle guns, scarifiers and scabbling equipment which will effectively remove existing finishes and provide a keyed finish to the masonry, ready to receive the waterproofing treatments.

Once the masonry is suitably prepared, surfaces are thoroughly treated using waterproof cementicious compounds, which are either brush applied, low pressure spray coated, or applied by trowel, depending on the particular installation.

Kenwood SWS and Kenwood rapid are chemically modified cements which are factory blended with binders and dried aggregates, specifically designed to bond to the substrate and prevent the ingress of water. The waterproofing treatments are applied by our own skilled technicians. In conjunction with our waterproof rendering systems, this will provide a dry internal finish. Our structural waterproofing will provide effective treatment of dampness and is covered by a comprehensive ten year guarantee.