We are having a basement cellar converted into a lounge. We understood that we would just need it tanked but now our builder says we need to install a delta system with a floor pump. Its coming out at about £4000 more expensive. Does this sound right? He seems to be a nice guy but we know nothing about it and before we pay up I want to be sure he isn't taking us for a ride!
2006-11-29 23:11:41 · 5 answers · asked by Tigerlily 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Decorating & Remodeling
Unless there is running water or you live in a flood area a cavity drain/pump system is overkill.
You need to reach Grade 3 BS8110 water vapour tolerable but no water/damp. use structural waterproofing render by Sika or similar walls and floor..employ an approved contractor of the manufacturer and you will get a guarantee to satisfy even mortgage lenders which will be important if you sell the house in the future. 30m2 should cost about £2250 (£75/m2 applied and guaranteed)
2006-11-30 01:03:55 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you're coverting a somewhat "damp" basement to a lounge, then the Delta system might be overkill. Yu can coat the walls with a dry-lock paint product and then insulate the walls and add a floor. That will fix the damp problem.
However.... if you have ever had actual water down there, (even occasionally) then it's definitely worth the investment. The last thing you want is to have water in a finished room after a large storm. I can't answer intelligently about the price because I don't know the going rates in the UK.
Good luck!
2006-11-29 23:17:07 · answer #2 · answered by Norm 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Get a second opinion! With the £ in there I'm assuming you're in the UK. In the USA that's $7000-$8000!
If you're worried about that much water coming in--you will need a pit with a pump. There are baseboard methods of waterproofing that cost less.
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2006-11-30 00:30:54 · answer #3 · answered by John H 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Are you built over underground water? If that only came to light after works started, it may very well be legit. Can you get someone in for a second opinion without offending your 'nice guy' and ending up with him overcharging elsewhere?
2006-11-29 23:25:11 · answer #4 · answered by robin g 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I had the same problem a few years ago. I turned my basement into a rec room. We made a platform floor, make sure you have plenty of air circulation. A de-humidifier does the same trick!
good luck!
2006-11-30 00:09:01 · answer #5 · answered by mom*2 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋