IntegraSpec's Forum

Do I need to waterproof my Integraspec wall before the back-fill goes in?

It is advisable and recommended to install a membrane (Peel & Stick type) or free drainage board (plastic or fiber type) for below grade (basement) application. Note that backfill material(s) should be of a granular material such as sand or clear crushed stone, free of any large stones or construction debries (not to damage the mebrane or drainage board during backfill and or caused by frost eaving same). Contact your closest IntegraSpec distributor for locally available, compatible membrane or free drainage board. Thanks


Michel Philippe
Sr. VP Design & Support

We went with a "blueskin "applied & later had occasion to remove some of it to extend parging down. I found that moisture had in fact entered down the small channels so I question the value of the membrane. we did it to satisfy the inspector. Is it really necessary?
Dave

The moisture found behind your Blueskin membrane is most likely rain water that driped down (from the top of the membrane) into the IntegraSpec preformed groove/channel which, does not pose a problem as it will eventualy drain to the bottom of the wall when and if that happens. We strongly recommend the use of such membrane in case of hydrostatic water pressure against the basement wall or high water table especially in snow melting season. Mind you, other EPS (Expanded Polystyrene)compatible product can also be used such as a damp proofing, drainage board, sprayed applied rubber or polymeric compounds, etc. Our IntegraSpec's EPS has zero capillary effect meaning, water will not wick inside EPS foam. For more information, please refer to Setion 18.0 in our installation manual which you can download within this forum downlaod section. Thank You

When our basement was put in I ask the dealer if it needed water proofed and was told it did not just to do a 100% gravel backfill. I live in a very wet location and so far so good but it has only been a few months