SOPREMA's COLPHENE BSW: The Ultimate Fully Bonded Waterproofing System

In this article we explore the significance and necessity of fully bonded waterproofing systems in modern-day basements / substructures. We discuss the challenges associated with traditional systems and provide a definition of a fully bonded system as per BS 8102:2022.

Additionally, we introduce SOPREMA's COLPHENE BSW fully bonded waterproofing system, which is SOPREMA’s premier system for basement and below-grade applications. This system provides TYPE-A-type protection and is BBA certified, demonstrating its proven track record in the Middle East with over 05 million square meters already installed.

INTRODUCTION

In the world of construction, basement waterproofing is a crucial aspect that requires careful consideration and implementation to ensure the longevity and durability of structures.

Selecting the ideal waterproofing system for a building requires careful consideration of various crucial factors such as the material type, water table, operating conditions, temperature, humidity, standards, and application purpose. Therefore, during the selection of an appropriate waterproofing system for a building, it would be advantageous to assess the many aspects that may influence the decision.

Selecting high-quality materials and advanced technologies can enhance the durability and maintenance of a building or structure. It can also make repairs easier with hydraulic protection of the structures and ensure long-term and dependable waterproofing. Neglecting any of these aspects could potentially compromise the safety and hygiene of the building. 

TRADITIONAL TORCH APPLIED MEMBRANE SYSTEMS

Traditional waterproofing methods, such as primer-adhered membranes and torch-applied 2-ply installations, have long been the standard. However, these methods come with their own set of challenges and vulnerabilities that can result in costly consequences if not executed perfectly.

One of the main issues with traditional waterproofing systems is the potential for failure, which can lead to water migration between the waterproofing membrane and the structural concrete. This not only compromises the integrity of the structure but also requires expensive corrective measures.

Additionally, the labor-intensive nature of traditional 2-ply installations, including extensive surface preparation, primer application, and torching, means that the success of the waterproofing heavily relies on the application process. Moreover, the need for horizontal and vertical protection systems further adds to the cost and duration of construction projects.

In contrast, fully bonded waterproofing systems, as defined by the British Standard BS 8102:2022, offer a more reliable and cost-effective solution. These systems provide a physical barrier that achieves a degree of bond with the structure, preventing water migration between the waterproofing material and the structure. One such system, the COLPHENE® BSW from SOPREMA®, has gained popularity in the Middle East region for its exceptional performance and ease of installation.

WHAT IS FULLY BONDED WATERPROOFING SYSTEM?

As defined in section 3.7, the British Standard BS 8102:2022 (Protection of Below Ground Structures Against Water Ingress) - “waterproofing material that provides a physical barrier to exclude water, and specifically achieves a degree of bond with the structure, such that water moving through any defects, is then unable to migrate laterally between the waterproofing material and the structure, as a result of the “full bond”.

COLPHENE® BSW - PRE-APPLIED MEMBRANE SYSTEM DESIGNED FOR BLIND SIDE WATERPROOFING APPLICATIONS

COLPHENE® BSW system is a perfect solution for waterproofing horizontal & vertical surfaces in blind side applications. COLPHENE® BSW membranes stand out from other offerings because of their high performance and speed of installation.

One of the key features of the COLPHENE® BSW system is its adherence to cast-in-place concrete and bonding to the structural element (raft/retaining wall) which makes the system a fully-bonded system.  BSW systems have superior adhesion because of the chemical and mechanical bonds between the waterproofing membranes and structural concrete, which not only prevent water infiltration inside the building but also prevent lateral water migration between the membrane and concrete.

COLPHENE® BSW's are SOPREMA’s modified bituminous waterproofing membrane leading system for basement and below-grade applications, which is TYPE-A-type protection and BBA certified. Bonding between the membrane and concrete eliminates the risk of lateral water migration under pressure.

Regardless of the water table level, the COLPHENE® BSW system has various well-measured system layouts and designs that suit the requirements of each project. The choice of solution from the COLPHENE® BSW depends on the height of the groundwater around the structure and the construction approach. SOPREMA technical team recommends the correct choice of membrane from the COLPHENE BSW family after careful evaluation of these details.

The upper surface (side in contact with the structure) of all the pre-applied BSW membranes is coated with silicon dioxide crystals. When concrete is poured over the pre-applied membranes, a bond is created because of the dual phenomenon of mechanical and chemical bonds.

DUO SELVEDGE TECHNOLOGY

For safer installation, BSW membranes are provided with DUO SELVEDGE, a unique technology developed and patented by SOPREMA®. This technology provides an overlap of 120 mm, where a percentage of the side lap is sealed with a self-adhesive, and the balance of the side lap is then safely thermo-welded or sealed with hot air. Thus, the COLPHENE® BSW membranes exhibited a strengthened bond with the structure. This bond eliminates the possibility of water migrating between the membrane and the structure, which significantly reduces the risk of water ingress into the structure.

SOPREMA RELIABLITY AS A TRUSTED MANUFACTURER

The choice of SOPREMA® guarantees reliability. As a testimony to the trusted performance of its products, SOPREMA offers a complete warranty program that lives up to its reputation and expertise.