Are you a builder or waterproofer and want to understand your obligations under AS 3740 waterproofing standards? Perhaps you are home owner in need of a waterproofing inspection in Perth? We summarise your obligations in this standard in 7 short points:
- Scope and Definitions: Builders should be familiar with the scope of the standard and understand the definition of waterproofing. The standard covers the requirements for waterproofing in new buildings and alterations to existing buildings. It defines waterproofing as the treatment of surfaces or structures to prevent the passage of water under hydrostatic pressure.
- Areas Requiring Waterproofing: Builders should understand the areas that require waterproofing in buildings. These areas include roofs, balconies, external walls, wet areas such as bathrooms, and planter boxes. The standard provides guidance on the specific requirements for waterproofing these areas.
- Materials and Methods: Builders should be aware of the materials and methods used for waterproofing. The standard provides detailed information on surface preparation, membrane selection, and application methods. Builders should ensure that the selected materials and methods comply with the standard.
- Design and Installation: Builders should understand the requirements for design and installation of waterproofing systems. The standard emphasizes the need for appropriate design and installation to prevent water ingress and the potential for damage and deterioration of the building structure. Builders should ensure that the design and installation of waterproofing systems comply with the standard.
- Drainage Systems and Penetrations: Builders should be aware of the requirements for drainage systems and penetrations in waterproofing systems. The standard provides guidance on the design and installation of these systems to prevent water ingress.
- Maintenance and Repair: Builders should understand the requirements for maintenance and repair of waterproofing systems. The standard stresses the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the continued effectiveness of the waterproofing system. Builders should ensure that the recommended procedures for repair and replacement of damaged or deteriorated components are followed.
- Roles and Responsibilities: Builders should be aware of the roles and responsibilities of building practitioners involved in waterproofing. The standard highlights the importance of ensuring that all parties involved in the building process have a clear understanding of their responsibilities and obligations with respect to waterproofing.
To summarise, builders should ensure that they are familiar with the AS3740-2021 standard and its requirements for waterproofing in buildings. If you are performing waterproofing inspecton report, you also need to know these guidelines. They should ensure that the selected materials and methods comply with the standard, and that the design and installation of waterproofing systems meet the requirements. Builders should also ensure that the recommended procedures for maintenance and repair of waterproofing systems are followed, and that all parties involved in the building process have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities.