Do I really require a Waterproofing Design Specialist? – Delta discuss

8 Jun 2018

As waterproofing design is a complex task, Delta Membranes believe a specialist is needed for a project, with the days of an architect undertaking the role being long gone.

Getting the design correct before construction will save substantial costs and British Standard 8102:2009 Code of Practice for Protection of Below Ground Structures Against Water from the
Ground recommends every design team/waterproofing project features a Waterproofing Design Specialist.

A Waterproofing Design Specialist offers expertise in structural waterproofing; they should:

Be able to list the principal considerations for a robust waterproofing design
Have CSSW as a minimum standard of qualification
Offer knowledge on waterproofing systems available
Have an in-depth understanding of BS8102:2009 and its requirements
Have desk top study & risk assessment knowledge – these should form part of any Designers Report and Waterproofing Design
Have an understanding on sources of water (such as how it flows through the soil and interacts with the structures).
Have structural knowledge
Have knowledge of Ground Gases
Have geotechnical knowledge (to be able to understand the implications of a soil report)
Produce a Design Report, Method Statements and Waterproof Design drawings.

Every construction project is different and, as such, a Waterproofing Design Specialist should be introduced at the earliest stages of design to guarantee the structural waterproofing system is compliant to BS8102:2009.

A Waterproofing Design Specialist should attend the site, undertake site investigations, produce reports and manage documentation in relation to the design, making sure sufficient protection is designed into the project at all stages.

The Property Care Association has created a Register which offers a central point for individuals with the relevant waterproofing design skills.

To be accepted as a PCA Waterproofing Design Specialist, applicants have to be able to demonstrate they have the necessary skills in the following:

Diagnostic investigation and problem solving
Report writing
Understand all the aspects of BS8102:2009 and other relevant industry standard
Building construction and waterproofing techniques
Knowledge of the products and techniques commonly used in waterproofing.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is compulsory for all PCA accredited Waterproofing Design Specialist. In addition, every Waterproofing Design Specialist has to acknowledge and uphold the PCA’s code of Ethics and all relevant standards that relate to the conduct and behaviour of its members.

The PCA register allows developers, architects, builders etc to quickly locate vetted and approved Waterproofing Design Specialists, who can assist in the design and planning of underground waterproofing.

A Waterproofing Design Specialist will work with architects, surveyors, contractors and engineers to provide a design service which complies with BS8102:2009 and offers detail to design. The ability to easily identify and engage a Waterproofing Design Specialist will allow a design team to conform to the recommendation set out in BS8102:2009.

Structural Warranty Providers, such as NHBC, stipulate it is a mandatory requirement that a CSSW qualified waterproofing designer is involved in the waterproofing design process and other warranty providers such as Premier Guarantees and LABC are following suit.

Delta Membrane Systems Limited offer CSSW training and examinations at its fully functional training facilities in Epping Essex, hosted by the PCA.

All of Delta’s Technical Team are CSSW qualified surveyors and registered to the ‘Waterproofing Design
Register’. In addition, its technical Team will happily help with your waterproofing designs/projects.

Delta Membrane Systems,
Delta House,
Merlin Way,
North Weald,
Epping,
Essex,
CM16 6HR
United Kingdom

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