Below ground potential

Basement areas are not usually associated as being new-build work in existing properties, but – as Delta Membrane Systems states – many home owners have found that they can create valuable extra space by going below ground level.

While basements are more usually associated with being the forgotten part of an older property, newer housing rarely benefits from this extra space. Yet, it is possible to dig down and create valuable extra space suitable for a range of applications.

Traditional damp proof membranes trap moisture and hold up work while the relative humidity of the concrete takes time to drop. Delta-FM allows work to continue immediately after placement thanks to a special low stud profile. Specifically designed for flooring applications, Delta-FM protects against dampness and contamination.

A complete product line-up is offered by Delta, including the MS-500 ‘Original’ cavity drainage membrane for use on walls and floors and vaults as a waterproofing system.

This 0.6mm thick membrane features studs measuring 8mm deep. Made from high density polyethylene in a clear finish, MS-500 gives a compressive strength of greater than 250kN/m², and is able to drain some 135 litres/min. of water per metre run.

Alongside this, Delta offers MS-20 which is a brown dimpled drainage sheet with high drainage capacity and substantial compressive strength. Compared with the previous design, this new MS-20 has a 30% improvement in compressive strength – now more than 150kN/m², and is able to drain some 600 litres/min. of water per metre run.

Any water that builds up from the cavity drainage membrane can be cleared by the Delta Sump+Pump collection. These systems are offered with a collection of accessories including high level alarms, battery back-up and non-return valves.

The range of products available from Delta Membrane Systems brings the possibility of added space to be created in a house – space  that can be used for a variety of functions including ‘Granny annex’, gymnasium, games room, cinema or simply somewhere to ‘chill out’.