The Manual of Below-grade Waterproofing

The ever evolving technology of waterproofing presents challenges and risks for architects and engineers who do not specialize in the field. The revised edition of The Manual of Below-Grade Waterproofing Systems provides the education and product information to enable designers to take a sound, fundamental approach to these contemporary challenges.

Building designers specify waterproofing systems and materials that are often based on limited and subjective manufacturers’ literature or past experience with systems that work under specific conditions, but will fail in other installations. Leakage usually leads to litigation. This book gives you the tools to prevent that.

This manual covers the history and science of waterproofing materials, the considerable distinctions between waterproofing roofs and plazas and below-grade surfaces, the critical procedures for protecting waterproofing materials during construction, diagnosing and remediating leaks, writing specifications, and detailing waterproofing components. The pros and cons of every waterproofing material and system are comprehensively covered. You will learn how to:

• weigh positive- versus negative-side waterproofing systems

• weigh dampproofing versus waterproofing

• coordinate with all the professionals in the waterproofing delivery chain

• follow environmental protection and government regulations

This book is an essential resource for architects, civil engineers, contractors, designers, materials manufacturers, and all other professionals involved with the design and construction of underground spaces.