It often happens that on the perimeter walls of a basement or a basement in direct contact with the ground surrounding the house, more or less serious and evident problems arise, caused by humidity.
If the side of the wall in contact with the ground was, at the time of construction or subsequently, correctly waterproofed, it is evident that the humidity present in the wall is exclusively due to rising damp; otherwise, if there is no external lateral waterproofing, it has not been made in a workmanlike manner or has been inadvertently damaged, the perimeter walls in addition to being in direct contact with the ground in the part of the foundations, are in contact with the ground also with the external side of the wall, consequently absorbing the water present in it.
The main cause of lateral thrust humidity or lateral infiltration of the walls, arises in fact, from damp sources which, being beyond the walls, somehow manage to overcome them, causing humidity to enter the domestic environment.
The problem exposed is obviously not constituted by the humidity outside, constituted by the rain, the proximity of the house to watercourses, broken sewers, continuous irrigation or simply by direct contact with the damp soil instead from the inability of the perimeter walls to rise like safe waterproof barriers between the outside and the inside of the basement.
Being faced with problems in underground rooms linked simultaneously to the humidity in contact with the ground, to the lateral infiltrations of water and/or humidity and to the rising damp, means dealing with the most complex cases to solve those relating to the humidity of buildings.
In this case, the rising humidity is added to the lateral pushing humidity.
Products and technologies to use
Among the possible remediation measures from the problems deriving from the humidity in a basement, linked simultaneously to the lateral infiltrations of water, to the humidity in contact with the ground, to the humidity of rising damp and to the biodeteriogenic proliferations (mold, moss and lichens), to be evaluated and diagnosed always and in any case on a case by case basis, the combination of the following technologies and product cycles to be applied is effective and decisive.
BLOCKING OF WATER INFILTRATIONS WITH HYDRO-EXPANSIVE POLYURETHANE RESINS
Syntech HAG Flex
Single-component polyurethane resin (which can be mixed with an expansion accelerator – component B), permanently flexible, hydroswelling (increases its initial volume approximately tenfold), solvent-free, ideal for sealing small and large water infiltrations in concrete or solid masonry in general by injection (check beforehand that the masonry has sufficient strength to withstand the pumping pressure and the hydroswelling pressure exerted by the resins). Ideal for filling and sealing small cavities, joints and discontinuities subject to movement.
Syntech HAG Flex
Single-component polyurethane resin (which can be mixed with an expansion accelerator – component B), permanently flexible, hydroswelling (increases its initial volume approximately tenfold), solvent-free, ideal for sealing small and large water infiltrations in concrete or solid masonry in general by injection (check beforehand that the masonry has sufficient strength to withstand the pumping pressure and the hydroswelling pressure exerted by the resins). Ideal for filling and sealing small cavities, joints and discontinuities subject to movement.
Syntech HAG Eco
Single-component polyurethane resin (which can be supplemented with an expansion accelerator – component B), suitable for contact with drinking water, semi-flexible, hydroswelling (increases its initial volume approximately 20-fold), solvent-free, ideal for sealing, by injection, small and large water infiltrations in concrete or solid masonry in general. Ideal for filling large voids and cavities within masonry (check beforehand that the masonry has sufficient strength to withstand the pumping pressure and hydroswelling pressure exerted by the resins).
Syntech HAG Eco
Single-component polyurethane resin (which can be supplemented with an expansion accelerator – component B), suitable for contact with drinking water, semi-flexible, hydroswelling (increases its initial volume approximately 20-fold), solvent-free, ideal for sealing, by injection, small and large water infiltrations in concrete or solid masonry in general. Ideal for filling large voids and cavities within masonry (check beforehand that the masonry has sufficient strength to withstand the pumping pressure and hydroswelling pressure exerted by the resins).
Syntech HAG Cleaner
Specific cleaning agent for the equipment required during injection operations with water-reactive resins used to stop water infiltration in buildings. Low-toxicity oily rinsing detergent with high solvent capacity for uncured polyurethanes, designed to clean and lubricate the internal hydraulic pumping circuits of both manual and electric pumps. Replaces acetone, methylene chloride and other commonly used detergents.
Syntech HAG Cleaner
Specific cleaning agent for the equipment required during injection operations with water-reactive resins used to stop water infiltration in buildings. Low-toxicity oily rinsing detergent with high solvent capacity for uncured polyurethanes, designed to clean and lubricate the internal hydraulic pumping circuits of both manual and electric pumps. Replaces acetone, methylene chloride and other commonly used detergents.
Syntech HAG Iniettore
Rubber and steel injection packers to be inserted at cracks, fissures, voids, joints, cavities, etc. to be waterproofed using the water-expanding polyurethane resins Syntech HAG Eco and Syntech HAG Flex, specifically designed for the immediate arrest of water infiltration. Fitted with a “flat head” and non-return valve, they must be used in conjunction with Syntech HAG Connettore. Available in two different sizes: Syntech HAG Iniettore 120 = 120x13 mm; Syntech HAG Iniettore 170 = 170x16 mm.
Syntech HAG Iniettore
Rubber and steel injection packers to be inserted at cracks, fissures, voids, joints, cavities, etc. to be waterproofed using the water-expanding polyurethane resins Syntech HAG Eco and Syntech HAG Flex, specifically designed for the immediate arrest of water infiltration. Fitted with a “flat head” and non-return valve, they must be used in conjunction with Syntech HAG Connettore. Available in two different sizes: Syntech HAG Iniettore 120 = 120x13 mm; Syntech HAG Iniettore 170 = 170x16 mm.
Syntech HAG Iniettore 170
17 cm in length and 16 mm in diameter, this rubber and steel injector is to be inserted in line with the damage, cracks, loose foundations, joints, cavities and so on, then waterproofed through the use of Syntech HAG Eco and Syntech HAG Flex hydro-expansive polyurethane resins, specifically for immediately stopping water infiltration. Equipped with a "flat head" with non-return valve, it is used in conjunction with the Syntech HAG Connettore.
Syntech HAG Iniettore 170
17 cm in length and 16 mm in diameter, this rubber and steel injector is to be inserted in line with the damage, cracks, loose foundations, joints, cavities and so on, then waterproofed through the use of Syntech HAG Eco and Syntech HAG Flex hydro-expansive polyurethane resins, specifically for immediately stopping water infiltration. Equipped with a "flat head" with non-return valve, it is used in conjunction with the Syntech HAG Connettore.
Syntech HAG Connettore
Connection element between flat-head injection ports and the injection hose of manual or electric pumps used to stop water infiltration by injecting water-reactive polyurethane resins.
Syntech HAG Connettore
Connection element between flat-head injection ports and the injection hose of manual or electric pumps used to stop water infiltration by injecting water-reactive polyurethane resins.
Syntech HAG Pompa AZ-PT/B
Single-piston, self-priming, single-acting manual pump for injecting fluid polyurethane and epoxy resins. The pump delivers a maximum pressure of 100 bar. The flow rate is 1 litre in 55 cycles.
Syntech HAG Pompa AZ-PT/B
Single-piston, self-priming, single-acting manual pump for injecting fluid polyurethane and epoxy resins. The pump delivers a maximum pressure of 100 bar. The flow rate is 1 litre in 55 cycles.
TREATMENT OF WALLS WITH DETERGENT AND SANITIZING PRODUCTS WITH ANTI-MOLD
Consilex Muffa Cleaner
Ready-to-use, transparent cleaning agent for the safe removal of blackish deposits caused by mould and biodeterioration, as well as for the revitalising renewal of wooden surfaces. Consilex Muffa Cleaner is a biodegradable product, completely free from chlorine and caustic soda. Its strongly alkaline pH softens mould and surface dirt. The surfactants it contains assist the natural removal of dirt.
Consilex Muffa Cleaner
Ready-to-use, transparent cleaning agent for the safe removal of blackish deposits caused by mould and biodeterioration, as well as for the revitalising renewal of wooden surfaces. Consilex Muffa Cleaner is a biodegradable product, completely free from chlorine and caustic soda. Its strongly alkaline pH softens mould and surface dirt. The surfactants it contains assist the natural removal of dirt.
Consilex Muffa Remover
Eco-friendly solution containing specific active ingredients for the elimination of biodeteriogenic growths—mould, fungi, moss, algae, lichens, bacteria, etc.—from masonry, in full compliance with ecological protocols, with particular reference to bio-building applications and the restoration of historic and monumental buildings. More than 150,000,000 square metres treated and over 30 years of experience guarantee the product’s quality and effectiveness. Consilex Muffa Remover is based on quaternary ammonium salts and is completely free from chlorine and caustic soda. To promote suitable environmental conditions on the treated substrate and help prevent the formation of mould and biodeteriogenic organisms, the product has been formulated for slow biodegradability.
Consilex Muffa Remover
Eco-friendly solution containing specific active ingredients for the elimination of biodeteriogenic growths—mould, fungi, moss, algae, lichens, bacteria, etc.—from masonry, in full compliance with ecological protocols, with particular reference to bio-building applications and the restoration of historic and monumental buildings. More than 150,000,000 square metres treated and over 30 years of experience guarantee the product’s quality and effectiveness. Consilex Muffa Remover is based on quaternary ammonium salts and is completely free from chlorine and caustic soda. To promote suitable environmental conditions on the treated substrate and help prevent the formation of mould and biodeteriogenic organisms, the product has been formulated for slow biodegradability.
REALIZATION OF AN OSMOTIC CEMENTITIOUS LAYER WITH RESISTANT THICKNESS IN COUNTERTHRUST
Osmocem RD
Two-component, fibre-reinforced osmotic cementitious mortar based on hydraulic binders, modifying and flexibilising resins, reactive superpozzolanic fillers and selected aggregates, for the preparation of adhesive mixes which, after hardening, provide effective waterproofing protection both under positive and negative water pressure, with a high capacity for deformation. Osmocem RD can be used for coatings, rebuilding, protection and skim coats, including applications exceeding one centimetre in thickness, for the waterproofing restoration of reinforced concrete structures, masonry envelopes, hydraulic works, extensive exposed surfaces, etc., mainly in underground rooms subject to negative hydrostatic pressure.
Osmocem RD
Two-component, fibre-reinforced osmotic cementitious mortar based on hydraulic binders, modifying and flexibilising resins, reactive superpozzolanic fillers and selected aggregates, for the preparation of adhesive mixes which, after hardening, provide effective waterproofing protection both under positive and negative water pressure, with a high capacity for deformation. Osmocem RD can be used for coatings, rebuilding, protection and skim coats, including applications exceeding one centimetre in thickness, for the waterproofing restoration of reinforced concrete structures, masonry envelopes, hydraulic works, extensive exposed surfaces, etc., mainly in underground rooms subject to negative hydrostatic pressure.
Sanareg
Non-film-forming reactive liquid based on an alkylsilane emulsion dissolved in water, to be used to inhibit salt efflorescence in dehumidifying masonry renovation works, by spraying or application with a stiff-bristle brush. Sanareg penetrates the capillary pores of mineral substrates and reacts with the hydroxyl groups encountered along its path, forming an invisible water-repellent barrier that prevents water from reaching the surface, while leaving water-vapour permeability unchanged.
Sanareg
Non-film-forming reactive liquid based on an alkylsilane emulsion dissolved in water, to be used to inhibit salt efflorescence in dehumidifying masonry renovation works, by spraying or application with a stiff-bristle brush. Sanareg penetrates the capillary pores of mineral substrates and reacts with the hydroxyl groups encountered along its path, forming an invisible water-repellent barrier that prevents water from reaching the surface, while leaving water-vapour permeability unchanged.
APPLICATION OF A COMPLETE CYCLE OF DEHUMIDIFYING, RESTORING, ANTI-CONDENSATION PLASTERS
Untersana
One-component premixed product for producing, with the sole addition of mixing water, bonding scratch coats to be applied before renovating, dehumidifying, thermal-insulating and anti-condensation renders; specifically Intosana, Sanatigh, Sanawarme and Caleosana, renders specially designed to ensure healthy indoor conditions in new buildings, for green building interventions on existing buildings and for the restoration of historic and monumental buildings. Also ideal as a mortar for the consolidating pointing of joints in brick, stone or mixed masonry, and as a render mortar, especially on damp masonry.
Untersana
One-component premixed product for producing, with the sole addition of mixing water, bonding scratch coats to be applied before renovating, dehumidifying, thermal-insulating and anti-condensation renders; specifically Intosana, Sanatigh, Sanawarme and Caleosana, renders specially designed to ensure healthy indoor conditions in new buildings, for green building interventions on existing buildings and for the restoration of historic and monumental buildings. Also ideal as a mortar for the consolidating pointing of joints in brick, stone or mixed masonry, and as a render mortar, especially on damp masonry.
Caleosana
Render for internal and external applications, macroporous, designed for sustainable construction, with high thermal-insulation performance, based on natural hydraulic lime NHL 3.5, siliceous aggregates, metakaolin and granular expanded silica with a very high volume of interconnected voids and a low elastic modulus. Its specific characteristics make it suitable for dehumidification and the thermal and hygrothermal rehabilitation of buildings and masonry, for sustainable construction projects and the restoration of historic and monumental buildings.
Caleosana
Render for internal and external applications, macroporous, designed for sustainable construction, with high thermal-insulation performance, based on natural hydraulic lime NHL 3.5, siliceous aggregates, metakaolin and granular expanded silica with a very high volume of interconnected voids and a low elastic modulus. Its specific characteristics make it suitable for dehumidification and the thermal and hygrothermal rehabilitation of buildings and masonry, for sustainable construction projects and the restoration of historic and monumental buildings.
Sanastof
Premixed mineral-based product formulated with NHL 3.5 natural hydraulic lime, pozzolanic microsilica, selected aggregates, high-toughness microfibres, and lightweight thermally insulating aggregates with a low elastic modulus. It is used for skim coating and levelling, both indoors and outdoors. It is perfectly compatible with a wide range of substrates: lime-based, lime-cement and cement renders, concrete, porous stone and masonry units. Its characteristics make it particularly suitable for green building applications and the restoration of historic and monumental buildings. The maximum aggregate size is 0.9 mm.
Sanastof
Premixed mineral-based product formulated with NHL 3.5 natural hydraulic lime, pozzolanic microsilica, selected aggregates, high-toughness microfibres, and lightweight thermally insulating aggregates with a low elastic modulus. It is used for skim coating and levelling, both indoors and outdoors. It is perfectly compatible with a wide range of substrates: lime-based, lime-cement and cement renders, concrete, porous stone and masonry units. Its characteristics make it particularly suitable for green building applications and the restoration of historic and monumental buildings. The maximum aggregate size is 0.9 mm.
Sanaxil P - Therm
Mineral potassium silicate paint for interior and exterior use, offering outstanding adhesion to porous substrates through both mineral combination and chemical bonding. It combines anti-condensation and insulating properties (thanks to the presence of hollow glass microspheres 3M Glass Bubble in the formulation – thermal conductivity 0.08 W/mK) with high resistance to mould and microorganisms (thanks to the naturally alkaline pH of potassium silicate) and excellent hiding power (Class 1 according to EN 13300, with a coverage rate of 6–7 m2/l). Due to its mineral nature, Sanaxil P - Therm revolutionises the concept of adhesion to the substrate, penetrating deeply into the wall pores and then reacting with its components to form a unique, indissoluble silicate bond.
Sanaxil P - Therm
Mineral potassium silicate paint for interior and exterior use, offering outstanding adhesion to porous substrates through both mineral combination and chemical bonding. It combines anti-condensation and insulating properties (thanks to the presence of hollow glass microspheres 3M Glass Bubble in the formulation – thermal conductivity 0.08 W/mK) with high resistance to mould and microorganisms (thanks to the naturally alkaline pH of potassium silicate) and excellent hiding power (Class 1 according to EN 13300, with a coverage rate of 6–7 m2/l). Due to its mineral nature, Sanaxil P - Therm revolutionises the concept of adhesion to the substrate, penetrating deeply into the wall pores and then reacting with its components to form a unique, indissoluble silicate bond.
DESIGN OF CORRECT VENTILATION AND PREPARATION OF A SUITABLE DEHUMIDIFIER
A dehumidifier
is a tool that allows you to dehumidify the air within a certain closed or poorly ventilated area, or stabilize the temperature below the so-called “dew point”, so as to prevent it from becoming condensate with all developments negative effects that condensation can subsequently cause.
The operation varies according to the type of dehumidifier, considering however that the water vapor present in the air decreases with decreasing temperature; usually the dehumidifiers inside them have a coil in which a coolant flows, when activated, the air passes inside this instrument and the water vapor condenses around the coil, absorbing the water and causing it to fall inside a collector to be subsequently disposed of.
One thing to note is that the dehumidifier does not lower the temperature inside a room, but on the contrary stabilizes it.
The final part of the dehumidifier, or another coil, has a higher temperature, this implies that after the passage of air inside the dehumidifier and after the water vapor has been absorbed, the air will continue its passage on the coil where it will be heated and then put back into circulation in the room.