New Training Course Aims to Enhance Concrete Waterproofing Knowledge

In the construction industry, concrete is often regarded as a reliable and robust material, but when it comes to ensuring that concrete structures remain watertight, the complexities can be easily underestimated.

Many building engineers, construction professionals, and surveyors operate under the assumption that their general knowledge of concrete waterproofing is sufficient. However, the reality is that achieving watertight concrete, especially Type B concrete waterproofing, requires a much deeper understanding of the material and the rigorous application of specific techniques and standards.

Currently, the structural waterproofing standards outlined in the British Standard BS 8102 are critical for guiding professionals through the process of creating watertight concrete structures.

Section 9 of BS 8102 provides detailed guidance on the requirements for Type B structurally integral concrete protection, which prevents the ingress of water through the careful control of the concrete mix, placement and curing processes. This standard emphasises the importance of following best practices at every stage of the concrete-making process to ensure that the final structure meets the necessary waterproofing criteria.

Despite the availability of these standards, there remains a significant knowledge gap within the construction and surveying industries. Many professionals may not fully grasp the complexities involved in making concrete watertight, leading to potential issues in project execution and long-term structural integrity. Recognising this need, the Property Care Association has recently launched a new training course aimed at educating industry professionals on the complexities of concrete waterproofing.

This training course is designed to provide surveyors, designers, engineers, and other construction/building professionals with a deeper understanding of concrete as a complex, heterogeneous material. It will cover the essential provisions required to make concrete watertight, offering insights into the challenges that can arise during certain projects. By improving knowledge and skills in this area, the course aims to enhance the overall quality of construction practices, ensuring that concrete structures are built to last and remain watertight throughout their lifespan.

Cormac Rooney, Director at MJ Rooney and former PCA Board Member comments: "In our industry, the use of watertight concrete is a relatively common occurrence. It’s not just about following the standards. It’s about understanding the material and the complexities behind it to ensure a successful watertight build. Training courses like this are a valuable opportunity for wider construction and surveying professionals to refine their knowledge, understand the challenges and understand why it is a specialist area.

As the construction industry evolves, staying informed and educated on the latest standards and techniques is essential. Whether you are a seasoned engineer, a surveyor, or a construction professional; training courses like the new PCA course will give you insight towards the specialist knowledge you need when doing Type B waterproofing”

To find out more about the new training course, click on the link below.

• Watertight Concrete Training