A damp basement doesn’t have to remain a damp basement.
Where walls and floors are exposed to groundwater, a properly specified tanking system can create a protective waterproof barrier and help turn previously vulnerable areas into dry, practical spaces.
Archer Treatments provides professional tanking in West Sussex for basements, cellars, renovation projects and commercial properties.
What Is Tanking?
Tanking is a form of structural waterproofing designed to resist water entering through walls or floors.
It usually involves applying a waterproof membrane, slurry, or coating to the structure to create a continuous barrier between groundwater and the building’s interior.
Because below-ground areas may face significant water pressure, proper preparation and installation are essential.
When Might Tanking Be Required?
Tanking may be considered where a basement or cellar experiences:
• Damp patches on below-ground walls
• Water penetrating through masonry
• Persistent moisture
• Deteriorating internal finishes
• Groundwater entering through cracks or joints
• Problems discovered during basement renovation
• Historic waterproofing that has deteriorated
It can also form part of the waterproofing specification for a basement conversion or refurbishment.
Tanking Versus General Waterproofing
The terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a useful distinction.
Waterproofing describes the overall process of protecting a structure against water.
Tanking describes a specific approach in which a barrier is created to prevent water from entering the usable space.
Other waterproofing approaches, such as cavity drain systems, instead allow controlled water movement behind a membrane before directing it towards drainage.
The best method depends on the building.
Our Specialist Tanking Process in West Sussex
Every project should begin with an assessment of the existing structure and damp problem.
1. Property Assessment
We investigate the affected walls or floor and consider where moisture is entering.
2. Preparation
Surfaces must be correctly prepared so the tanking system can perform properly.
Loose material, unsuitable finishes and defects may need to be addressed before waterproofing begins.
3. Waterproofing Installation
Install the specified tanking system across the relevant surfaces to create continuous protection.
Particular care is required around corners, junctions, penetrations and construction details where water may otherwise find a route through.
4. Finishing
Once the waterproofing system is complete, you can install suitable internal finishes according to the project specification.
Tanking for Basement Conversions
If you plan to turn an unused basement into habitable accommodation, treat waterproofing as a fundamental part of the project.
A beautifully finished room can quickly suffer damage if you don’t resolve groundwater problems first.
Professional tanking can therefore provide the foundation for creating bedrooms, offices, utility rooms, entertainment areas or other useful spaces below ground.
Commercial Tanking in West Sussex
Tanking is not limited to residential buildings.
Commercial properties may contain basements, storage areas, plant rooms, archives or lower-ground spaces where water ingress could damage stock, finishes or equipment.
Archer Treatments can provide specialist advice for both domestic and commercial waterproofing projects.
Is Tanking Always the Right Solution?
Not necessarily.
Some buildings suit cavity drainage systems, while others may require combined waterproofing measures.
Water pressure, construction materials, substrate condition, and the area’s intended use all influence the specification.
That is why professional assessment is preferable to choosing a waterproofing product based solely on visible symptoms.
Why Choose Our Tanking Specialists in West Sussex?
From period properties to modern developments, buildings throughout West Sussex can experience below-ground moisture.
Archer Treatments provides specialist tanking and waterproofing solutions throughout the county, including Horsham, Worthing, Crawley, Chichester, Haywards Heath and surrounding areas.
Talk To Archer Treatments
If you are looking for professional tanking in West Sussex, contact Archer Treatments. We can assess your basement or cellar, discuss the available waterproofing options and recommend an appropriate system for your property.