Design and guidance for the UK construction industry, in line with BS 8102:2022.
Independent Structural Waterproofing Consultants
Based in Suffolk, England. Working with projects across the UK.
Why bring in a waterproofing specialist early?
Ownership of the structural waterproofing design is often unclear on a project. BS 8102:2022 expects a waterproofing specialist to be appointed before the technical design stage at the very latest (think ‘late’ RIBA Stage 3). Involving us at concept and spatial design stage means questions of grade, system choice and buildability are settled while they are still cheap to answer.
RDA-UK design and review below-ground waterproofing for the UK construction industry, in line with BS 8102:2022, so that the protection specified on paper is the protection that can actually be built on site.
What we do
Design | Waterproofing design intent at concept stage, through to formal design that is tailored to your project and backed by Professional Indemnity.
Consultancy | Client team appointment, a Compliance Management Team (CMT) role, and independent peer and design review. We also advise waterproofing product manufacturers entering the UK market.
Survey | Site surveys of existing structures and investigation of failed waterproofing systems.
Technical drawing | Project drawings, detail libraries and CAD support for contractors, installers, manufacturers and fellow designers.
Training | tailored one-to-one and group training in structural waterproofing.
Questions we are often asked
What are Type A, Type B and Type C in waterproofing?
These are the three recognised forms of belowground structural waterproofing protection. BS 8102:2022 characterises each type and provides detail on the variety of systems and materials that make up each form.
Type A is barrier protection, a form commonly referred to as ‘tanking’, such as a sheet or liquid-applied membrane.
Type B is structurally integral protection, where the structure itself resists water ingress from the ground. Such as watertight concrete and appropriately controlled crack widths, with the inclusion of sealed construction joints.
Type C is drained protection, such as cavity drainage, which manages any seepage ingress and discharges it to an appropriate point.
Which environmental grade does a basement need?
It all depends on how the space is going be used and what the expectation is for a particular given area. Grade 3 for example; is most usually the agreed requirement for a habitable space below ground, but applying a blanket Grade 3 performance demand across the whole belowground space, without considering the effects on scope and the other professionals involved, is a common problem. Defining and agreeing upon the grades early makes the design journey far smoother.
When should a waterproofing specialist be appointed?
As early as possible, and before the technical design stage at the very latest. BS 8102:2022 makes this very clear from the beginning.
At concept stage the waterproofing intent can be set alongside the architect’s and structural engineer’s vision, rather than retrofitted later.
What is a CSSW?
CSSW is the acronym for Certificated Surveyor in Structural Waterproofing. It is a nationally recognised industry qualification awarded by the Property Care Association (PCA) through the Awarding Body for the Built Environment (ABBE). An individual who holds the professional credential is also often referred to as a ‘CSSW’, as their specialties and expertise are need for diagnosing water ingress problems and the design of waterproofing systems for below-ground structures.
Having one on board meets best practice and the expectations of local authorities, insurance bodies and BSI guidance.
About RDA-UK
RDA-UK is led by Luke Dear, a CSSW and TechICT credentialed individual with a combined 17-years in design and construction, the past 10-years exclusively in belowground structural waterproofing. Having gained a great deal of experience on all manner of scope and project-sizes, from private individuals repurposing a cellar space to high-profile schemes such as 7 Millbank in Southwark, London.
RDA-UK formally carry Professional Indemnity insurance for design and consultancy activities in belowground structural waterproofing.
Get in touch
Tell us about your project and we will advise on the best way to help.
Call 020 7965 7335 or send an enquiry.