Delta Membrane Systems

Basement Waterproofing Systems - Dampness Sealing - Floor Finishes

What are Delta Membrane Systems

With the introduction of the latest British Standard 8102:(1990) "protection of structures against water from the ground", the use of cavity membranes has been generally accepted in the UK. DELTA Systems are a complete range of products which are used together to solve many of today's problems in both new and old construction. DELTA Systems can easily deal with aggressive ground water conditions, where basements are liable to flooding, or indeed where simple dampness, contamination or salting problems are prevalent. Other more diverse applications include Turf covered roofs, barn conversions, tunnel linings or even as a barrier against radon gas.

The main components of the system are the membranes themselves. These are manufactured from virgin high density polyethylene which is thermally alkaline stabalised. The stud heights vary between 3mm for DELTA-FM, 8 mm for DELTA MS 500 & DELTA PT to 20 mm for DELTA MS 20. The cavity created by the membrane contains between 5 and 10 Litres of space respectively. This is known as either the "Air gap" or the "Drained Cavity", in wet situations.

The Sealed System for Basement Waterproofing Systems

In Soil retaining situations such as basements and vaults, the DELTA sealed system is recommended. The membrane selection depends on the required finish and flow rate if applicable. All the normal options are available for finishes to the system, including plastering direct when using DELTA-PT. All membrane junctions, fixing points, service entries and other protrusions are sealed with the DELTA range of sealing products. Where active ground water is evident or expected drainage of one form or another should be incorporated into the specification. This should be capable of controlling any free water that enters the cavity, through preformed channels or sumps, to be drained away naturally or by mechanical pumps.

Our Technical staff are available to give advice in this respect.

The Ventilated System

In above ground situations or in areas where no free running water is expected, for example where external pavements have been built up the ventilated system can be used. The ventilated system with air gap at top and bottom does not require sealed joints or fixings, a 100 mm overlap is sufficient in this situation. This method is seen as a sympathetic solution in Heritage type properties as a general damp proofing system. The fabric of the building remains unchanged but the new internal surfaces are "dry" and are salt and contamination free.

Both dry lining or plaster direct finishes are available on the ventilated system.

Sealing Floor Finishes

As well as being a complete waterproofing and damp proofing system DELTA SYSTEM 500 is also used to upgrade damp and defective floors. With excellent crush resistance the system lends itself to a variety of different finishes which include conventional screeds, thin layer fast drying screeds and wood based floating floors. Insulation can also be used in conjunction with the system where required.

The system can be linked to the D.P.C. constructed within a new wall or to an existing or chemical D.P.C. DELTA - FM Delta - FM is specifically designed for floor applications, to combat dampness, and contamination. The special low stud profile (3mm) minimises changes in floor levels but still provides an air gap to achieve damp pressure equalisation. The membrane is a fast-track application that allows various floor finishes to be achieved with zero 'down time'. The R.H. levels are isolated in the air gap, and controlled. Delta - FM can be used in new build, remedial or refurbishment projects for floors, and walls.

Preparation

As the membrane systems are mechanically fixed there is no reliance on the ability of the product to bond to the substrate. The DELTA system can be applied to a variety of different substrates for example over existing renders or broken down bitumen coatings, etc. This can be easily achieved without detriment to the integrity of the system.

Damp Pressure Equalisation - dampness sealing

The studded structure of the membrane allows the dampness behind the membrane to move in all directions unhindered, therefore the whole of the wall or floor surface takes the damp loading. Break down created by weak points are eliminated. The product does not divert the problem to other areas.

Flexibility

In structures where movement or vibration are a problem, examples being under street vaults, railway arches, and buildings constructed with movement joints, the DELTA system can cope.

The DELTA membrane has an elongation break of greater than 50%.

Speed

As there is little or no preparation required the system is by comparison quick to install. When dry finishes are used the system is a "fast track" solution. Decoration does not need to be delayed as there is no drying process. DELTA membrane systems are the UK arm of the world's largest producer of studded membrane systems. The market leading DELTA brand has a track record exceeding three decades. The DELTA systems have been used successfully in many situations in the UK From small domestic basements up to major waterproofing projects such as, London Underground Stations. There is rarely a dampness or water ingress problem that falls outside the scope of the capabilities of the DELTA system.

External Protection

Delta Geo-Drain

Structures that are earth retaining can be damaged by moisture penetration from the outside or by the water under hydrostatic pressure. DELTA Membranes are available as geocomposites to deal with such problems. They act as a waterproof drainage layer, and quickly remove the water to suitable drainage around the structure. They prevent the buildup of hydrostatic pressure on the structure and filter the water via an internal polypropylene filter layer. This prevents the fine ground particles from blocking the drainage facility and avoids destabilising the soil.

Who Installs Delta Systems

Although DELTA Systems are by comparison, easy to install, it must be recognized that the correct diagnosis of the problem is essential so that DELTA Systems can be designed and tailored to the needs of the building, to give the best possible performance. It is therefore recommended that only competent specialist contractors, who understand dampness, and the associated problems, be employed to survey the site, install the system and thereby ensure the best possible performance of the system.

DELTA Systems are installed by a Nationwide network of specialist contractors who are holders of "Registered Installers" Certificates.