Below-grade Commercial Waterproofing

ShanCon offers professional below-grade commercial waterproofing services in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC, to protect your structure from water infiltration. With our expertise and knowledge, we ensure the best possible solution for your waterproofing needs.

Avoid potential issues by opting for ShanCon's below-grade commercial waterproofing solutions to prevent leakages.

ShanCon is dedicated to providing top-notch waterproofing services to safeguard your surfaces against water damage. Our team of professionals is well-versed in the latest techniques and technologies to offer you the most effective waterproofing solutions tailored to your specific needs.

The Effect of Geography

Washington, D.C., with its historical architecture and vibrant urban development, is uniquely situated in a landscape that primarily consists of lowland marshes and swamps. This geographic characteristic poses significant challenges for builders and property owners alike, particularly regarding water infiltration in below-grade structures. Ensuring the integrity of basements, parking garages, and other subterranean construction requires a robust waterproofing strategy to prevent costly water damage and mitigate maintenance concerns.

Our Waterproofing Repair and Restoration Work

At ShanCon, we have extensive experience working across various markets, including federal, education, municipal, and commercial sectors. Our expertise lies in four below-grade commercial waterproofing and building envelope solutions, including foundations. From minor repairs to complete restoration projects, our team has the skills and knowledge to handle any waterproofing job precisely and efficiently.

Get it done right the first time: improper waterproofing can cause mold. Having waterproofing done correctly the first time will lessen the chance of mold.

Increase the lifespan: waterproofing can help extend the longevity of the product by reducing the amount of water it encounters

For a closer look at our past projects and the quality of our work, click on the photos provided here. You can browse through examples like the Garmatz Plaza project in Baltimore, MD, to see the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that ShanCon brings to every waterproofing job.

Why Waterproof?

There are numerous reasons why investing in professional below-grade commercial waterproofing services is crucial for your property. Firstly, ensuring that waterproofing is done correctly from the start can help prevent mold growth from water infiltration. By choosing ShanCon for your waterproofing needs, you can rest assured that the job will be done right the first time, minimizing the risk of future problems.

Waterproofing can significantly extend the lifespan of your surfaces or structures by reducing their exposure to water damage. Waterproofing can lead to cost savings in the long run by avoiding expensive repairs or replacements due to water-related issues. With ShanCon's expertise in waterproofing solutions, you can protect your investment and preserve the integrity of your property for years to come.

1. Sheet Membrane

One of the most widely used methods for below-grade commercial waterproofing is the application of sheet membranes. These are pre-manufactured sheets made from various materials, such as modified bitumen or thermoplastic polymers. Sheet membranes are typically adhered to the foundation walls or floors before backfilling occurs. The primary advantage of this method is its ability to provide a continuous barrier against water intrusion, which significantly enhances the durability of structures in flood-prone areas like Washington, D.C.

Installation involves careful preparation of the surface to ensure proper adhesion and performance. Any irregularities or contaminants on the substrate must be addressed before application; otherwise, the effectiveness of the membrane could be compromised. Sheet membranes can be combined with drainage systems to direct any accumulated water away from the structure.

2. Fluid Applied

Fluid-applied waterproofing membranes offer a versatile alternative to sheet membranes. These liquid coatings are typically made from polymer-based materials that can be sprayed or rolled onto surfaces, creating a seamless membrane that conforms perfectly to any shape or contour. This adaptability makes fluid-applied systems an excellent option for complex urban construction.

These membranes form a cohesive film upon curing, effectively sealing joints and penetrations that might otherwise allow water ingress. Moreover, fluid-applied systems generally possess high elongation properties, enabling them to accommodate structural movements without cracking—a crucial benefit in a city subject to expansive soil conditions and varying climate factors.

3. Polyurethane Grout Injection

For existing structures dealing with ongoing infiltration issues, polyurethane grout injection has emerged as an effective remedial technique for sealing cracks and voids within the foundation walls or slabs. This method involves injecting a specialized polyurethane material into problem areas where it expands and cures, filling gaps while creating a durable barrier against water intrusion.

The primary advantage of polyurethane grout is its quick curing time and versatility; it can be employed in both dry and wet conditions, making it suitable for emergency repairs when immediate action is required. The lightweight properties of polyurethane also reduce the risk of additional structural stress during application compared with heavier repair materials.

4. Bituminous Waterproofing

Bituminous waterproofing is used in construction and infrastructure development, primarily utilized for its effectiveness in protecting structures from water ingress and moisture-related damage. Shielding building elements against unpredictable weather patterns is essential for preserving the integrity of structures and enhancing their longevity.

When applied as a waterproofing solution, bitumen acts as a barrier against water infiltration by forming a continuous membrane that adheres to the substrate. For added strength and durability, bituminous materials are often reinforced with fiberglass or polyester fabrics.

A Multifaceted Approach

An appropriate below-grade commercial waterproofing solution hinges upon various factors, including site-specific soil conditions, project timelines, budget constraints, and long-term performance expectations. Understanding these diverse options allows property owners and developers in Washington D.C.'s marshy landscape to make informed decisions that enhance structural durability while minimizing maintenance concerns over time.

As construction practices evolve amidst changing environmental factors—including more frequent severe weather events—the importance of investing in high-quality commercial waterproofing solutions will continue to grow. By integrating advanced technologies with tried-and-true methods such as sheet membranes, fluid-applied solutions, polyurethane grouting, or bituminous waterproofing into their designs, builders can safeguard both current investments and future developments against the persistent threat posed by this region's unique geological characteristics.