Blindside Waterproofing Systems for Hydrostatic Conditions: Lessons Learned & Good Practices
In densely populated areas and where hydrostatic conditions exist, particularly near large bodies of water, fully encapsulated blindside waterproofing system applications, otherwise called “bath tubbing” has become a common practice. As such, minimal standards exist for the performance of typical blindside waterproofing systems on a new construction project, let alone the more challenging “bathtub” application. A comprehensive approach is warranted in the selection and installation of waterproofing systems with consideration of construction challenges, performance requirements, and available options. With the use of alternative construction techniques, such as shotcrete in lieu of poured-in-place concrete, different challenges are experienced that require appropriate additional measures to reduce the risk of water leakage issues. This session presents the lessons learned from successful projects and projects with leakage issues, construction practices, and detailing of the waterproofing system. The presentation will also discuss the findings from stand-alone mock-ups and follow-up testing conducted prior to the construction. Designers, consultants, and constructors will benefit from the session by better appreciating the challenges, risks, proper installation procedures, and mitigation measures in addressing failures of blindside bathtub waterproofing, and thus propagating knowledge toward long-term performance.
Learning Objectives
At the end of this session, the attendee will be able to:
- Identify available waterproofing materials for blindside bathtub waterproofing systems.
- Discuss perimeter foundation wall construction techniques and their implications on the selection of the appropriate blindside bathtub waterproofing systems.
- Identify blindside bathtub waterproofing systems for best performance results based on construction challenges (pre-emptive versus reactive).
- Explain the impacts of failure of the blindside bathtub waterproofing system, either due to construction practices or material selection.
- Explore available options to resolve localized and systemic water leakage after installation.
Presenter/Author
Chris McConnell, B.Tech
Team Lead – Building Envelope Rehabilitation
EXP Services Inc.
Over his 10-years-plus career, Chris Mconnell, B.Tech, has gained experiences in a wide variety of fields and disciplines, including custom house design, general contracting, and consulting services related to noise, vibration, new construction, concrete rehabilitation, façade restoration, and waterproofing problem solving. He provides services to several types of clients in the commercial, industrial, and residential sectors, including services across Canada where he liaises with other EXP offices and manages the team remotely for highly successful projects. He is a graduate of McMaster University, where he finished summa cum laude in his Bachelor of Technology course.
Length: 00:53:18
Last Updated: April 28, 2025
