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When you are constructing a building or unground structure, such as an underground parking garage or basement, you’ll need below-grade waterproofing to make sure it keeps its structural integrity. These areas are subject to flooding and waterproofing is a way to prevent damage and increase the life of the structure.  There are a few ways to install this waterproofing system, but the process refers to applying a waterproof coating or other material to the walls of the foundation, usually during the construction stages.

Because buildings’ foundations are constructed of concrete, it is porous and can crack over time. One health hazard to consider is mold and mildew growth due to water damage. Below-grade waterproofing creates a barrier between your building’s foundation and the earth. Along with below-grade waterproofing, making sure the building has proper drainage is also a huge aspect of mitigating these types of issues.

Below-Grade Waterproofing Types 

Positive-Side Waterproofing – This application is done on the outside of the foundation where it will touch soil. This can consist of fluid-applied seamless membranes, sheet systems, or a combination of the two. 

Negative-Side Waterproofing – This is applied to the interior of the building. It stops water and other materials from entering the building but not from penetrating the foundation. Because of this, it is usually done in conjunction with positive-side waterproofing or when the positive-side can not be done. 

Overall, below-grade waterproofing protects your building by ensuring there is a barrier between the foundation and the outside elements. Without waterproofing, you could deal with structural issues, flooding, water damage, and toxic materials. When done correctly, below-grade waterproofing greatly reduces the risk of damage and protects your building and investment. To talk to one of our team members about the best waterproofing options for your project, contact us today!

What is a Davit? 

If you are planning on having your building’s windows washed or waterproofed, the first thing you want to consider is safety. Roof davits, also referred to as tie-back anchors or tie-downs, allow contractors or trained employees to access the facade of the building. By using a davit, you can suspend a platform down the side of the building so the individuals performing the service can have a steady and safe working platform for maintenance, cleaning, and repair services. These anchors are required for any building with 4 or more stories and 3 or more stories if ground equipment can not easily reach areas that need to be repaired or maintained. 

Davit Specifications & Testing

Davit testing and inspections are an important part of your building’s safety. OSHA has several standards to regulate davits to ensure safety. Davits must be ASTM A36 steel construction and fully galvanized finish to ASTM A123 standards. After the davit is installed on your roof, it must be tested and inspected. 

A davit system must be recertified every ten years. Recertification is required every five years if adhesive, epoxy, or chemically bonded anchorages are used. When testing the equipment to OSHA requirements and certification, a load test will be done to verify the strength of the davit. These anchors need to withstand an ultimate load of 5,000 lbs in any direction. While it is required that the davit be recertified every ten years, a visual inspection will need to be performed once a year.

Why is Davit Testing Important? 

There are many reasons to have davit testing performed. It ensures that your building is up to code and help prevents falls. It is a vital part of ensuring a safe work environment. This also keeps you in compliance with OHSA and other government agencies regulations. 

Our team can help you make sure buildings and davits are up to code and safe. Our trained professionals ensure structural integrity and compliance through testing and visual inspections. Contact us today to learn more about davit testing or schedule a service.