Damp basement walls and soaked brickwork not only impair the quality of living, but can also lead to serious structural damage. A surface barrier is the effective solution for transverse moisture penetration when moisture penetrates from the ground into the basement wall. With Isofin, we offer a proven method for internal waterproofing that you can carry out yourself. The correct use of materials is crucial to ensure effective waterproofing.

Introduction to basement waterproofing

What is transverse moisture penetration and how does it occur?

Transverse moisture penetration occurs when water penetrates laterally from the adjacent soil into the basement walls. Unless the sources are identified and rectified, the exterior wall will always be affected by moisture. This typically happens when:

• The vertical external seal is missing or damaged

• Areas exist that cannot be exposed (under terraces, garages, stairs)

• Neighboring buildings or property walls transfer moisture

• Stagnant water on the cellar walls

The consequences are serious: wet stains on the wall, crumbling plaster, salt efflorescence, mold growth and musty smells. In addition, the cellar wall loses its natural thermal insulation, which leads to increased heating costs and long-term damage to the building fabric.

Causes of damp cellars

Damp cellars can be caused by a variety of factors. Common causes include damp exterior walls, a high groundwater table or inadequate waterproofing. Soil moisture is one of the most common causes of damp basement walls, along with seepage water and pressing damp. To find the right solution, it is crucial to determine the exact cause of the damp. A specialist can help to identify the cause and select the appropriate waterproofing method. Typical signs of a damp basement wall are damp patches, salt efflorescence or a musty smell. These indicators should be taken seriously in order to avoid major damage to the building fabric.

Advantages of basement waterproofing

Effective basement waterproofing offers numerous advantages. It prevents damage to the building fabric, reduces moisture in the basement and significantly improves the indoor climate. This is particularly important for health, as it prevents damp and mold in the basement. In addition, good waterproofing can help to reduce energy costs by preventing warm air from escaping. There are various ways to carry out basement waterproofing, such as the use of waterproofing slurries or bitumen thick coatings. Each method has its specific advantages and should be selected according to the individual circumstances of the cellar.

Sealing materials and tools

Various materials and tools are available for basement waterproofing. Waterproofing slurry and bitumen thick coatings are two of the most popular options. There are several specific products that can be used for waterproofing and it is important to use products from one manufacturer to ensure compatibility. In addition, there are specialized tools such as masonry saws and pile driving checker plates that can be used for the waterproofing work. A professional can help select the right materials and tools and carry out the waterproofing work professionally. Choosing the right materials and tools is crucial to the effectiveness and longevity of the waterproofing.

How does the Isofin surface barrier work?

With the Isofin surface barrier, the special water repellent is applied to the masonry through drilled holes. There it displaces the existing pore water and forms a wafer-thin water-repellent layer on the pore walls, which prevents capillary water transport and thus prevents moisture penetration. In addition, waterproof concrete can serve as an effective barrier against penetrating water by filling the basement without joints.

The special thing about Isofin is its ability to penetrate even water-saturated masonry and distribute itself optimally there. After treatment, the pores can dry out and refill with air instead of water. The wall thus regains its natural thermal insulation capacity, while at the same time the diffusion openness (breathability) of the building fabric is maintained.

How to carry out interior sealing with Isofin yourself

Thanks to the sophisticated system, the creation of an Isofin surface barrier is also possible for ambitious DIY enthusiasts, especially when waterproofing basements:

1. Drill: Drill holes (10-12 mm diameter) in a checkerboard pattern with horizontal and vertical spacing of 25 cm. The holes should penetrate about two thirds of the wall thickness and run downwards at an angle of 30-45°.

2. Inject: Insert the Isofin injection bottles with the special cap screwed on into the drill holes. The masonry absorbs the Isofin automatically.

3. Sealing: Once the isofin has been completely absorbed (1-10 days depending on the masonry and moisture), remove the empty bottles and seal the drill holes with a little mortar.

The right amount of Isofin depends on the wall thickness. Our special dosing bottle has an integrated scale that shows you the correct quantity depending on the wall thickness. For a basement wall approx. 36 cm thick, you need one bottle of Isofin (500 ml) per drill hole.

The Isofin calculator for the perfect material quantity

We have developed our Isofin calculator so that you know exactly how much material you need. Simply enter the dimensions of the surface to be treated and our tool will calculate precisely:

• The required number of drill holes

• The required quantity of Isofin injection bottles

• The optimum drill hole distribution

This will help you avoid unnecessary additional costs due to overestimation or frustrating repeat orders if the material requirements are underestimated. Also take into account the ingress of groundwater to ensure professional waterproofing. It is important to have the specific reason for the moisture determined by a specialist in order to take targeted action against ground moisture, seepage water and pressing groundwater.

To the calculator

Costs and duration of waterproofing

The costs and duration of the waterproofing work depend on the specific conditions in the basement. Waterproofing from the inside can usually be carried out more quickly and cost-effectively than waterproofing from the outside. However, it is important that the waterproofing work is carried out by a professional to ensure that it is correct and durable. Costs can vary depending on the method and extent of the work, but should be seen as an investment in the future of the building. Effective waterproofing protects the building fabric and improves the usability of the basement rooms in the long term. It also prevents dangerous damage to the building fabric of the house caused by damp in the basement.

In which cases is a surface barrier with Isofin the right choice?

An Isofin surface barrier is particularly recommended:

• In the event of missing or defective vertical external waterproofing, also known as a vertical barrier. Reliable waterproofing on the exterior basement wall is crucial to prevent the ingress of water from the sides and thus avoid water damage.

• In areas that are not accessible from the outside (under terraces, garages)

• In the event of interlocking moisture from adjacent components or neighboring buildings

• For height offsets in the cellar floor that allow water to enter from the side

• As an alternative to costly external sealing

Important to know: Isofin has been specially developed for capillary moisture and works optimally in the case of transverse moisture penetration and rising damp.

Holistic approach to moisture remediation

Moisture can pose a risk to the building fabric not only in the cellar, but throughout the entire building. With Isofin, we offer an efficient solution that offers practical benefits thanks to its simple self-assembly. Basement waterproofing is an essential part of our holistic approach to moisture remediation.

The remediation of damp masonry with Isofin includes:

1. Analyzing the sources of moisture. A precise determination of the cause is essential in order to select the appropriate sealing method.

2. Targeted treatment with Isofin surface barriers

3. If required, combination with horizontal barriers against rising damp

4. Sufficient drying time for the masonry

Disadvantages of conventional interior seals and how Isofin overcomes them

The following disadvantages are often cited with conventional methods:

1. The cause is not remedied: Conventional methods only combat the symptoms. Isofin solution: The hydrophobic pore walls actually stop the transport of water.

2. Trapped moisture: Sealing slurries and barrier plasters trap the water in the masonry. Isofin solution: Diffusion-open sealing allows the existing water to evaporate.

3. Reduced living space: facing shells make the rooms smaller. Isofin solution: No change to the room geometry as it is injected directly into the existing wall.

4. Insufficient effect: Conventional interior sealants often only combat moisture on the surface. Isofin solution: Deeply effective hydrophobization across the entire wall cross-section.

Thanks to its innovative technology, Isofin overcomes the typical disadvantages of conventional interior waterproofing and offers an effective long-term solution. You can find information on application and further tips on basement waterproofing in our detailed instructions. The combination of horizontal and vertical barriers is particularly effective in sustainably combating moisture problems in old buildings.