Stage 3: Waterproofing Works

Footings Waterproofing
Before Backfilling

Footings waterproofing protects the concrete and rebar from soil moisture and salts. After backfilling you can neither see it nor fix it, so we take handover once, before backfilling.

From 700 AED

1Handover Before Backfilling
  • Specialised Engineers
  • Photo Report
  • All Emirates

What Is Footings Waterproofing?

Footings waterproofing is a layer applied to the footings and column necks below ground, preventing soil moisture and salts from reaching the concrete and rebar. The footings waterproofing inspection is an engineering visit before backfilling, in which our engineers check that the waterproofing covers all surfaces and is applied correctly.

The inspection matters because the waterproofing is buried under the soil immediately after it is applied. Any gap or tear lets moisture and salts reach the rebar, which rusts over the years and weakens the footings, and repairing it later requires excavation.

Handover of Footing Waterproofing

We inspect the waterproofing once, after it is applied and before backfilling.

Single Inspection

Footings Waterproofing Handover

When: After the waterproofing and protection layer are applied, and before backfilling.

The last chance to see the waterproofing before the soil covers it. We check that it fully covers the footings and column necks, with no gaps or tears.

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Key Items We Inspect

Surface Preparation

Concrete clean and dry before waterproofing.

Coverage

Every face of the footing and column neck covered.

Laps

Lap lengths between rolls or layers.

Corners

Corners and edges detailed without gaps.

Tears and Blisters

Waterproofing free of holes and blistering.

Protection Layer

In place before backfilling to protect the waterproofing.

Most Common Problems at This Stage

Incomplete Waterproofing at Column Necks

High
Cause:
Difficult areas neglected.
Impact:
Moisture reaching the rebar and rusting it over time.

Insufficient Laps

High
Cause:
Saving on materials or rushing.
Impact:
Moisture seeping through the joints.

Backfilling Without Protection

High
Cause:
Protection layer skipped.
Impact:
Waterproofing torn by gravel during backfilling.

Equipment We Use

From the Fahison equipment featured on our home page.

Thickness Gauge

Tips Before the Inspection

To help you get more out of the visit.

Do
  • Request the handover before backfilling starts.
  • Make sure the contractor has applied the protection layer.
  • Have the required waterproofing specifications ready if available.
Avoid
  • Backfilling before the waterproofing is accepted.
  • Accepting waterproofing on damp or dirty concrete.
  • Allowing people to walk on the waterproofing or throw materials onto it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Footings Waterproofing.

Why does footings waterproofing matter?

Because soil contains moisture and salts that attack concrete and rebar. The waterproofing protects them, and any gap in it causes the rebar to rust over the years.

When should I request the handover?

After the waterproofing and protection layer are complete, and immediately before backfilling.

How much does a footings waterproofing inspection cost?

From AED 700.

Waterproofing Done?

Book the handover before backfilling, and we will arrange a visit time with you.

Book Footings Waterproofing