One of the most important and crucial stages of the construction of a country house is the arrangement of the foundation. Increased attention should be paid to its waterproofing. The reliability, durability and quality of the entire structure will depend on this.
General requirements
Regardless of what kind of waterproofing method you plan to use, the following points must be taken into account:
The operating conditions of the structure. For example, if you are planning a warehouse, then waterproofing will require better.
The probability of flooding (due to serious precipitation, floods characteristic of bulk soils).
Degree of groundwater. This has a direct impact on the choice of a specific type of isolation.
Features of «swelling» of soil during winter frosts.
How to make the right choice?
To date, there are only 2 waterproofing methods:
Vertical.
Horizontal.
The first method involves the processing of the walls of the foundation. Such waterproofing can be performed both at the construction stage and in the process of its operation. The cheapest and simple way is the option with bitumen waterproofing. The essence of this method is to process the foundation with special mastic. She is able to penetrate all kinds of cracks and holes, avoiding water entering the house. The process is extremely simple. Bitumen is purchased in the form of a bar. It needs to be heated until it becomes liquid. Then the material is applied to the foundation (in several layers — from two to four).
As for the horizontal method, it is used exclusively at the stage of arranging the foundation. This will need from twelve to eighteen days. Often, this option is used when working with a strip foundation.
Tips
The most effective solution is the combination of various methods.
It is necessary to choose a waterproofing method at the stage of filling the foundation (this will reduce subsequent expenses and facilitate the work).
When using bitumen, you can not smear minor cracks. This material will penetrate into them on their own.
Using a roll method of waterproofing, you can apply different layers of roofing material on each other. However, a special bitumen layer should be present between them.
