Waterproofing an Iconic Basement Bar, Cardiff

Summary

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  Timber battens fixed into the MultiPlugs were then used to create an internal timber frame for the wall

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  Hopbunker - Cardiff Pub of the Year 2016 and 2017, and Cardiff Cider Pub of the Year 2016 and 2017

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  The end result was a protected basement that is a modern and spacious bar for patrons to enjoy

As part of the refurbishment of Northgate House in Cardiff City Centre, the basement was to be converted into Hopbunker, a brand new bar for local craft brewery Hopcraft. Previously, the basement was home to music venue Barfly, which hosted world-famous bands such as Kings of Leon, Scissor Sisters and The Killers.

The Project

Once workers stripped back to the original structure, they found the fully earth-retaining basement suffering from water ingress and lacking adequate waterproofing protection. Newton Specialist Contractor Protectahome were contacted by the project developer to provide a complete design and installation service.

The Solution

Protectahome’s specialist team designed a fully maintainable Type C cavity drainage system using the Newton CDM System to provide a Grade 3 environment that was both suitable for Hopbunker and fully complied with the requirements of BS 8102:2009.

The bespoke system incorporated Newton 508 membrane installed to all wall and floor surfaces, including the concrete pillars throughout the basement. By capturing any water that is penetrating through the structure the cavity drain membrane protects the internal surfaces and finishes. Once the system captures the depressurised water, it moves it to the bottom of the membrane. A Basedrain perimeter channel then directs the water to a safe point of disposal.

In this case, and considering the size of the basement and the volumes of water, the safe point of disposal was three Titan-Pro sump chambers. Each contained two specialist NP400 automatic pumps and completed by the installation of a High Water Level Alarm to each chamber.

The Result

Protectahome completed the project on schedule and within budget. They also provided thorough protection to a venue later named Cardiff Pub of the Year in 2016 and 2017. The Type C installation also conformed with BS 8102:2009, and Protectahome issued a long-term guarantee for the work.

Testimonial

“Protectahome have been using Newton Waterproofing products for almost 20 years and find both the product quality, and technical support, to be first class in every respect. Working with high quality products gives us, as a highly experienced installer, full confidence that our clients are receiving the highest quality of service, and waterproofing system, throughout the entire process.” Protectahome Ltd – Newton Specialist Basement Contractor