DURING
AFTER
- December 08, 2019
CHALLENGES
Water had been leaking into the underground carparks of a strata complex in Camden NSW. The issues were investigated by Strata Engineering Solutions, in conjunction with the building contractors Polyseal, and the leaks were found to be resulting from failed waterproofing membranes to planter beds and around drainage pipes. The waterproofing membrane around several planter beds was compromised with bubbling of the membrane. Tears and breaches were observed at embedded pipes. There were visible cracks on some planter bed walls.
Another issue at the property was the existing access ramps which had settled due to subsidence of the soil beneath. As a result, the ramps had become distorted and wavey. Additionally, the ramps were not DDA compliant (Disability Discrimination Act). The Strata Committee wanted to re-construct the ramps and bring them up to the required standard for people with disabilities to have safe and navigable access to the property’s four buildings.
SOLUTIONS
The rectification works included the removal of soil from all planter beds and stripping the existing waterproofing. Each planter bed was then re-waterproofed and finally the soil was reinstated for new landscaping. The planter beds had construction joints along their walls which cracked the render. These were properly reinstated. The planter beds were re-rendered and repainted.
The new ramps were constructed of reinforced concrete with correct gradients and balustrades to achieve the Strata Committee’s goal of providing equal access to buildings on the property for people with disabilities, in alignment with the DDA.
RESULTS
The issue with leaking and pooling of water in the basement carparks was resolved. The planter beds were effectively given a new lease on life and could be replanted without causing problems. Rectifying the access ramps improved the aesthetics of the property and the ease of access to the buildings, and broadened the property’s appeal to buyers and renters with accessibility needs.
- Compliance Issues
- Structural & Aesthetic Issues
- Water Damage
