[Greenbuilding] Waterproofing a shallow frost protected foundation

[Jeff Martin]

Hi Lynelle!

While I second the idea of using a Soprema membrane (marketed as Resisto 
here in Quebec), I don't think that would be adequate if your water 
table is really higher than your SFPF for an extended period of time. 
The water will try to move in from below your slab and it's pretty 
unlikely that the slab is completely impermeable or that you created a 
completely water-tight seal underneath it.

However, I'm not seeing the problem with perimeter footing drains unless 
you have no slope away on any side of the building, to take your drain 
to daylight. If you can do that and do it properly, I think the dimple 
mat might work as designed. If you can't, adding a membrane over the 
foam will reduce the infiltration, but seems unlikely to stop it completely.

You also mention a septic system. I'm curious about how you're making a 
septic system work with such a high water table. Are you pumping your 
sewage to a raised mound treatment field or biofilter?

Jeff

On 2019-04-08 8:23 a.m., Lynelle A. Hamilton wrote:
>
> Many thanks, John. I'd looked at Soprema, but was hesitant as I knew 
> nothing about it.
>
> Lynelle
>
> On 07-Apr.-2019 10:35 p.m., john salmen wrote:
>>
>> If I interpreted this right you have 2” of foam over the nexcem and 
>> everything is covered with a waterproofing dimple wrap? And the 
>> dimple wrap is not working.
>>
>> You can use a proper waterproofing membrane over the foam similar to 
>> a standard icf foundation – soprema makes a number of roll products 
>> that can be used to waterproof (self adhering with primers, etc).  I 
>> think the best is a product called colphene icf.
>>
>> It is true that trying to drain a high water table can be 
>> counterproductive (increased flows) – you basically have to build a 
>> boat. Membrane waterproofing (soprema type products) are only as good 
>> as the installation (corners, seams, etc) – so getting someone 
>> skilled with those materials is more important than the material.
>>
>> If it was just the nexcem I would be tempted to recommend zypex as a 
>> cementious cover (less toxic) and very effective. You could look at a 
>> zypex stucco type cover with the foam but would probably fail over time.
>>
>> Best
>>
>> John
>>
>> stationdesign
>>
>> 4465 UPHILL RD DUNCAN
>>
>> BC V9L6M7 250 246 8541
>>
>> *From:*Greenbuilding <greenbuilding-bounces at lists.bioenergylists.org> 
>> *On Behalf Of *Lynelle A. Hamilton
>> *Sent:* April 7, 2019 3:22 PM
>> *To:* Green Building <greenbuilding at lists.bioenergylists.org>
>> *Subject:* [Greenbuilding] Waterproofing a shallow frost protected 
>> foundation
>>
>> Again, I turn to this list!
>>
>> I have a shallow frost protected foundation, sitting on a high water 
>> table. Construction is SFPF, then Durisol/Nexcem with 2" of foam 
>> extending to the perimeter foam and dimple wrap.
>>
>> We temp back filled the south wall before winter approx 3.5 feet, as 
>> the septic is to the south.  Now, I have water coming in on the south 
>> wall. Not a huge amount, but enough that I don't want it! We had no 
>> water on the ground before backfill, although the seat of the septic 
>> tank (about 1.5 feet below the foundation had minor seepage when we 
>> dug it.
>>
>> I've been told not to ring the foundation with gravel and install 
>> weeping tile, due to the high water table.  I don't believe I can use 
>> tar or other paint on applications with the foam. I can't find 
>> anything relevant on the web.
>>
>> Any ideas, listers? Many thanks in advance.
>>
>> Lynelle
>>
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