Damp proofing a basement cellar using tanking slurry and Visqueen plastic involves creating a waterproof barrier to prevent moisture ingress. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieve this:
### Materials Needed:
1. **Tanking Slurry**: A cementitious waterproofing product.
2. **Visqueen Plastic**: Heavy-duty polyethylene sheeting.
3. **Masonry Brushes**: For applying the tanking slurry.
4. **Trowel**: For smoothing the slurry.
5. **Buckets**: For mixing the slurry.
6. **Mixing Paddle**: Attached to a drill for mixing the slurry.
7. **Sealing Tape**: For sealing joints in the plastic sheeting.
8. **Protective Gear**: Gloves, goggles, and masks.
### Step-by-Step Process:
#### Preparation:
1. **Clear the Area**: Remove any existing coverings, debris, and loose material from the walls and floor.
2. **Repair Cracks**: Fill any cracks or holes in the masonry with a suitable repair mortar to create a smooth surface.
3. **Clean Surfaces**: Ensure all surfaces are clean and free from dust, grease, or other contaminants.
#### Applying Tanking Slurry:
1. **Mix the Slurry**: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the tanking slurry to the right consistency using a mixing paddle and bucket.
2. **First Coat**:
- **Dampen the Surface**: Lightly dampen the wall and floor surfaces with water (do not saturate).
- **Apply Slurry**: Using a masonry brush, apply the first coat of tanking slurry evenly to all wall and floor surfaces. Work from the bottom upwards to avoid runs and drips.
- **Coverage**: Ensure thorough coverage, getting into all corners and joints.
3. **Second Coat**:
- **Wait for First Coat to Cure**: Allow the first coat to set according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically a few hours).
- **Apply Second Coat**: Apply the second coat at a right angle to the first coat for better coverage and strength.
#### Installing Visqueen Plastic:
1. **Measure and Cut**: Measure the dimensions of the walls and floor. Cut the Visqueen plastic sheeting to size, ensuring it will extend slightly beyond the area to be covered.
2. **Fixing the Plastic**:
- **Start with Walls**: Begin at the top of the walls, fixing the plastic sheeting in place with adhesive or fixings recommended by the manufacturer.
- **Overlap Joints**: Overlap the edges of the plastic sheeting by at least 150mm (6 inches) and seal the joints with sealing tape to ensure a continuous waterproof barrier.
- **Cover the Floor**: Lay the plastic sheeting on the floor, overlapping the wall sheeting to create a continuous barrier.
3. **Seal Edges**: Use sealing tape to secure and seal all edges, corners, and overlaps thoroughly.
#### Finishing:
1. **Inspect**: Ensure all areas are covered and sealed properly. Check for any gaps or areas that may need additional sealing.
2. **Protect the Barrier**: If necessary, install a protective layer over the plastic sheeting on the floor to prevent damage from foot traffic or future flooring installations.
### Tips:
- **Ventilation**: Ensure good ventilation during the application of the tanking slurry and drying process.
- **Manufacturer’s Instructions**: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for both the tanking slurry and Visqueen plastic sheeting for the best results.
- **Professional Help**: If unsure, consider seeking professional assistance to ensure proper application and maximum effectiveness.
By following these steps, you will create an effective damp proof barrier in your basement cellar, protecting it from moisture ingress and prolonging the life and usability of the space.