Sealing a well from concrete rings. Methods of waterproofing wells
During the construction of the well, it must be strengthened and protected with durable waterproof materials. Reinforced concrete rings are usually used. They are durable, reliable and hygienic, because they do not contribute to the growth of bacteria. This design prevents leakage of surface and groundwater that can contaminate drinking water. But concrete in itself is insufficient protection, therefore, additional waterproofing of the well from concrete rings is needed. You can do it yourself. Fortunately, the choice of materials on the construction market is extensive, and the waterproofing works themselves are simple.
Waterproofing a well from external waters
Why protect concrete rings from moisture
Concrete in itself does not collapse from moisture. The peculiarity of this material lies in the fact that it passes water well if it was not initially waterproofed during the manufacture of products. Because of this property, structures in contact with wet concrete are exposed to moisture - wooden or metal. The reinforcement metal, corroded by rust, loses strength, is deformed and becomes the cause of the destruction of the entire structure. When waterproofing concrete, it is necessary to ensure that the material ceases to absorb moisture.
Well reinforced concrete rings protect against moisture even in production. There are three main waterproofing methods that manufacturers use:
- Structural waterproofing. Products are treated with water-repellent compounds after manufacture.
- Technological. During the production, concrete compaction technologies are used in forms: vibrocompression, centrifugation, vacuum removal of excess moisture.
- The use of water-resistant cement and additives. The addition of various water repellents provides moisture protection at the level of the particles of which the material consists. Special additives "work" like this: when concrete sets, the particles of water repellents swell and tightly clog pores and microcracks in the material. As a result, concrete loses its ability to pass water.
All these measures lead to a significant increase in the cost of finished reinforced concrete rings, but the products do not absorb moisture, and the adjacent structures and fittings are under the reliable protection of a waterproof, strong and durable material. If the owner of the well initially does not save on rings, then for him the most important thing will be to competently seal the joints and seams between structural elements. Properly carried out waterproofing measures guarantee long-term protection against corrosion, rot, mold and mildew.
For the manufacture of well rings, the solution is poured into special split molds consisting of two metal cylinders of different diameters
Waterproofing materials for wells
Distinguish between external and internal waterproofing. An clay castle is often used as an exterior, but this is not the only way to protect the well with water. The internal insulation of the well provides for the processing of the structure from the inside. For waterproofing use such materials.
- penetrating;
- injectable;
- smear.
Ideally, the best method of water protection should be determined by a specialist, since the choice of materials largely depends on the degree of salinity of groundwater. But in reality, well owners often decide for themselves what and how to apply. If possible, it is better to contact a company professionally engaged in waterproofing works, as some types of effective materials require the use of special equipment. If you decide to make the well waterproof with your own hands, you should understand the properties of waterproofing.
Internal waterproofing of wells - scheme
Injection waterproofing - once and for all
This is the case when you should seek the help of specialists. Injection waterproofing is expensive, but you don’t have to do it again: the materials will last as long as the whole structure. Polymeric compositions are pumped inside the building materials, which close the pores and cracks.
The advantages of this type of moisture protection:
- can be used for insulation of new structures and in the repair of old ones;
- materials are able to eliminate even pressure and flowing leaks;
- no need to prepare surfaces for the use of injection materials.
The disadvantages include the high cost and the need to use special high pressure pumps (from 200 atmospheres).
Penetrating materials - affordable and reliable
Penetrating waterproofing is an amazing example of the use of the judo principle in construction. The power of the “enemy" (water) is used to defend against its attacks. After treatment with penetrating materials, moisture becomes a factor of strengthening, and not destruction of the rings of the wells. Particles of water repellents crystallize from water and clog the pores of the building material. The higher the humidity, the more reliable the moisture protection, as waterproofing hardens faster. For wells use Penetron, Infiltron-100, Penekrit, Remstrim-T.
Hard-wearing lubricants
They are used for waterproofing foundations, pools, wells. Materials are applied to prepared surfaces and left to dry. When the waterproofing agents harden, they acquire the following properties:
- high tensile strength;
- elasticity;
- resistance to low temperatures.
The most popular material on the domestic market is the two-component coating “Tekmadray Elast” (Spain). The products of DuPont (USA), Mapei (Italy), Rastro (Russia) have proven themselves well. To protect the joints between the rings, Rubber Elast or Synko Elast sealants are used.
Tekmadray Elast - a popular polymer-cement waterproofing
How to waterproof a well from the outside
It is advisable to carry out external waterproofing measures during the construction of a well. If there is a need to protect the old well, you will have to put up with a large amount of earthwork. For moisture protection, it is better to choose rolled materials. Most often they use roofing material. Penetrating materials are also suitable.
First prepare the surface. It is necessary to open the outer walls of the structure as much as possible. To do this, around the well, choose soil 3-4 m deep. The well rings are thoroughly cleaned of dirt. If the structure is old, parts of the reinforcement may be exposed. They are cleaned and coated with an anti-corrosion compound.
The walls of the well are primed. You can use special products (Betokontakt has proven itself) or bitumen-gasoline, cement, cement-sand mortar with PVA glue. After the composition dries, tar or bituminous mastic is applied and a ruberoid is glued, carefully coating the seams with mastic.
If penetrating insulation is chosen, then the walls are not primed. They are soaked well, smeared with Penetron twice and left to dry for 3 days, periodically moistening the surface.
One of the ways of external waterproofing is a clay castle
Do-it-yourself internal waterproofing of ring surfaces
Before starting work, water should be pumped out of the well, then you need to make sure that the level does not rise until the waterproofing is completed. The inner surfaces of reinforced concrete rings are thoroughly cleaned with a metal brush, loose concrete, moss, and dirt are removed. Joints and crevices are cleaned and deepened. After this, you can proceed to waterproofing measures.
If leaks have opened during preparation, they are repaired with Aquafix or its equivalent. For cracks, a ready-made Megacret-40 repair composition is suitable.
When the compositions are dry, the walls of the well are moistened and waterproofing materials are applied. To do this, use a wide brush. Lubricate concrete from bottom to top.
The first layer of waterproofing is applied to a damp surface, and the second without moisture, directly to the first layer.
It will take about a day to dry and solidify the materials. At this time, the water in the well should not rise.
Before starting work, the concrete is cleaned, and the seams and joints are embroidered
If all work is done correctly, waterproofing will last several years. Hydrophobic materials do not dissolve in water, give it no aftertaste, and perfectly perform their functions. They are safe for human health. The water in the source will remain clean regardless of external factors.
Wells are a source of drinking water. They are also associated with the arrangement of sewage. In both cases, high-quality waterproofing of the well is required. It is performed using various special mixtures and compositions.
Wells can be divided depending on the functions they perform:
- ordinary, their walls eventually collapse under the influence of groundwater, because of which particles of sand, chemicals, petroleum products, waste water and so on can get inside, after which the water becomes polluted and can no longer be considered drinking;
- septic tanks, the contents of which should not fall into groundwater, without them, not a single sewage system is constructed;
- technical (cranes, pipes, branches, etc. are located in them), where there should be no water, so that the entire structure remains usable, and the minimum humidity level is maintained inside.
Features of waterproofing
When wells have been in operation for a long time, cracks can form in its walls. Moisture begins to penetrate through them. It can also trickle through the joints between the rings of water.
To avoid such problems, it is necessary to perform high-quality waterproofing of wells, which involves the following technological processes:
- decoration of seams formed by adjacent rings;
- processing of microcracks and all surfaces of rings.
Well insulation includes two types of work:
- external (labor-intensive but effective);
- internal.
First, joints and joints are sealed. To ensure the construction of a long service life, it is necessary to waterproof the wells from the inside and also from the outside. To avoid the penetration of water through the joints, it is recommended to use modern compounds and mixtures. If the work is constantly interrupted by incoming water, it should be ensured that it is drained or pumped out.
You can prepare the mixture yourself by mixing PVA glue with cement. The composition should have such a concentration that it is well taken with a spatula. For the first layer, it is more convenient to use a liquid mixture, which is easily applied with a brush. Waterproofing of the seams of the well can be done with geotextiles, which very tightly shut up the joints. And on top they are covered with liquid glass.
The surface of the rings becomes loose where water leaks out. This concrete layer must be carefully removed and the wall cleaned with an iron brush. Inter-ring seams and the places around the adjoining communications should be drilled and cleaned. It is also required to prepare a surface conjugated with a seam up to a width of 150 mm. If the result is bare reinforcement, then it is necessary to evaluate it. If rust has appeared, then it must be removed, and the metal treated with an anti-corrosion mixture.
When the waterproofing of the well is carried out in order to eliminate the pressure leak, then cement mortar (or a special composition) is used. Sealing of joints is carried out after wetting the concrete surface with water. It fits tightly with a spatula into the strobes with a thickness of not more than 30 mm (or make several approaches). It is possible to reduce the consumption of the composition by adding small gravel to the mixture (up to 50% of the total solution volume). Waterproofing wells in wet soils is 0.5 m higher than the estimated level of passage of high waters, given their capillary rise.
Water filtration through walls can be prevented if the ring is treated with a protective layer in 2 layers (the specific number is indicated by the manufacturer on the package). First, the surface must be cleaned and moistened (it is best to use a spray gun). Then apply the composition with a brush or using a mortar pump. The second layer is superimposed on the slightly set and moistened first.
The waterproofing layer is finally formed in 3 days. During this time, you can not expose the surface to mechanical damage, as well as low temperatures. At first (for 2 weeks), the waterproofing should be constantly moistened to prevent cracking. To prevent evaporation of moisture, the container must be covered with a special film. After sealing the joints in the well, it is necessary to analyze the water and make sure that it is clean and not hazardous to health.
Waterproofing septic tanks
When arranging sewer wells, reinforced concrete rings are used, which are laid to the required depth. In septic tanks, high-quality waterproofing does not allow drains to seep into the ground. Sealing prevents groundwater from entering the tank.
It is necessary to ensure that the waterproofing of the sewer wells guarantees absolute tightness of the structure (when the volume of drains exceeds 1m³). If the capacity is less, then it is possible to equip a septic tank from which sewage flows into the soil through the filter bottom.
When drains contain detergents or other chemical compounds, it is allowed to build exclusively tight structures.
If a well with drinking water is located in the areas, it is recommended not to consider the option of sewer wells with a filter bottom.
The entire surface from the inside should be covered with some kind of hermetic composition. Today, the following materials exist:
- dry
- containing epoxy resins resistant to aggressive compounds (gasoline, chemicals);
- liquid two-component.
Outdoor waterproofing
Reliable external waterproofing of the well prevents the negative impact of groundwater on the walls of the structure. It is more convenient to carry out such work during the construction of the well.
If an existing source of water is being repaired, then 3-4 meters deep soil is dug around it. Next, the following work is performed:
- loose concrete is removed;
- the surface of the walls is cleaned of all unnecessary (dirt, salt deposits, mold, moss, etc.);
- rust is removed from the exposed reinforcement, the metal is coated with an anti-corrosion agent.
External waterproofing of the well, can be performed using the following materials:
- rolled (roofing material) are superimposed on special mastics;
- cement mortar, which is used to repair damage, and a blind area is being constructed;
- penetrating compounds;
- waterproof expanding (or non-shrink) cement, which is used for gunning.
When sealing with roll materials, the following actions are performed:
- to ensure the necessary adhesion, a primer is applied, 3 layers of a bitumen-gasoline mixture can be applied (for this a cement gun or spray gun is used);
- after drying, the walls are repaired (damage is repaired), cement mortar can be used for this, but it is better to mix it with PVA;
- patches dry out;
- the surface is primed again;
- the walls are covered with a coating material (tar or bitumen mastic), 3-4 layers of a waterproofing layer are applied on top;
- seams are smeared with mastic.
If impregnation is used, a number of operations are performed:
- the moistened surface of the walls is lubricated with a mixture of deep penetration;
- later impregnation is applied the 2nd time;
- after 72 hours, the layer dries, so that the surface does not crack, it should be moistened.
Sealing sewer wells is performed similarly.
When gunning the walls of a well, the following sequence of actions is performed:
- a layer of cement (thickness 5-7 mm) is applied using a gun;
- after 10-12 days, the solution will set;
- the coating must be moistened to crack;
- the 2nd layer is applied.
External waterproofing of the well is carried out to the very top. The space around the tank is filled with sand mixed with gravel and compacted. Top is made of cement blind area. It is recommended to arrange a clay “castle” around the structure, which removes precipitation.
When arranging a container around the rings, leave a trench (width about 50 cm), which later needs to be filled with clay. Above ground it is necessary to form a slope so that rainfall flows from the structure. The upper rings trap high groundwater. The aboveground layer protects the tank from precipitation.
Waterproofing inside
To carry out internal waterproofing using the modern method, a special environmentally friendly complex is used that does not affect the taste of drinking water. The following materials are used:
- two-component coating mixture;
- a solution consisting of cement and polymer modifiers, which damage is repaired, it is characterized by good adhesion;
- instant cementitious composition, "hydraulic plug" for leaking places.
Before performing waterproofing inside an existing well, it is necessary to pump out water from it. After this, it is necessary to identify damaged places and perform the following steps:
- walls are cleared of loose concrete, moss and dirt;
- cracks are cut to a depth of 20-25 mm and processed with a wire brush;
- seams expand and deepen to 25-30 mm;
- if water has flowed, then you must immediately close it with a "hydraulic plug";
- cleaned cracks, seams are repaired with repair mortar;
- when the patches are set, a coating is applied with a brush to the previously wetted surface, which is diluted to the desired consistency in accordance with the instructions;
- the mixture is applied in 2 layers from the bottom up, the walls are re-smeared after the first has dried, complete solidification occurs in a day.
If the well is properly waterproofed, then it will serve faithfully for many years.
When a private homeowner hears the word "well", it causes him two associations: sewage and a source of water. Each owner of the house wants that over time, well water does not acquire the smell and taste of wastewater, and the sewer needs to be pumped out as rarely as possible.
The septic tank must be at least 50 meters from the source of drinking water.
This can be achieved by waterproofing the wells, which will affect the quality of the water, as well as how often the septic tank will fill up.
The waterproofing of the well carried out according to SNiP is able to eliminate the leakage of effluents into groundwater, which will not allow them to fill the tank, especially during the flood and rainy season. If waterproofing bypasses SNiP or is completely avoided, drinking wells will be filled with contaminated water, which can be hazardous to health.
Tools and materials
- metal brush;
- brush;
- reinforcing mesh;
- waterproofing compounds depending on the chosen method.
Features of waterproofing
Septic tanks can be considered a rather problematic structure in terms of sanitation and hygiene. SNiP clearly prescribes the rules according to which the arrangement of wells should be carried out, which in particular involves their waterproofing.
So, the waterproofing of wells, which have a sewer purpose, is designed to provide the highest degree of tightness of the structure, while the volume of wastewater exceeds 1 m³. If the tank has a smaller volume, it is allowed to equip the septic tank, which involves the release of sewage into the soil, provided that the system has a filter bottom.
SNiP also provides for the presence of residues of detergents or other chemicals in the drains - in this case, the system should have an exclusively tight container. If only a well acts as a source of drinking water on your site, the option of a septic tank, which has a filter bottom, should not be considered.
If the surface of the sewer well is excessively damaged, and cleaning cannot be carried out with a brush, a jackhammer should be used, which will help in the fight against concrete loose warping. Next, you can make a strobe, which you need to give a U-shaped shape, its dimensions should be equal to 25x25 mm, and it should be positioned along the length of the joints and seams that pass around the circumference of the communications into the inner space of the well.
It may be necessary to eliminate leaks under pressure, for which the following types of solutions are perfect: "Peneplag" or "Waterplag". Waterproofing should be carried out in leakage cavities, for this material must be pressed, holding until it seizes. Next comes the turn of the Penetron mixture, which must be preliminarily prepared.
It will be used in the treatment of the internal base of the leak. It will be convenient to apply with a brush. The final stage will be the elimination of leaks with the help of "Penekrit", which will act as the last layer of the treatment of the seams of the sewer well. Its consumption will be equal to 2 kg / dm³. Penetron consumption is 0.1 kg / l.m. Obtained shabra formed along the length of the seams must be filled using "Penekrita", the flow rate of which is 1.5 kg / lm.
When waterproofing the outside of the well, the surface has to be looked after for two weeks. If the concrete inside the sewer well is so damaged that the process of getting rid of the loose layer caused the reinforcement to be exposed, repair should be done on this site, relieving it of the remaining concrete around the circumference of the reinforcement, which suggests its complete exposure.
If the reinforcement is already susceptible to rusting processes, then it must be eliminated from corrosion by using a chemical or mechanical method. High-quality anticorrosion should be applied to the metal, which helps to exclude further corrosion processes.
Types of wells
If you purchase a finished fiberglass or plastic well, its tightness is provided for at the manufacturing stage. But often, to equip a septic tank, they can use reinforced concrete rings, immersing them to the required depth. If you follow the rules of SNiP, the bottom should have a concrete base, and the inner surface should be covered with sealant - some masters when waterproofing wells cover only the joints of the rings with the composition.
SNiP allows for the use of dry waterproofing mixtures, compositions with epoxy resins, liquid two-component sealants as a sealing agent for the inner surface of a septic tank. Each of these compounds with confidence can be called an excellent waterproofing agent. And if the waterproofing of the wells is carried out using an epoxy compound, their surface will not be afraid of aggressive chemicals such as gasoline, etc.
Figure 1 illustrates a penetrating type waterproofing device. The well in this case is made of reinforced concrete rings.
Waterproofing sludge (dry mixes containing sludge) have the following positive characteristics:
- short-term hardening;
- the mixture does not form cracks;
- surfaces treated with such compounds gain the ability to cope with severe loads;
- the surface after treatment becomes resistant to cold and the effects of various salts that fall into the soil along with precipitation;
- such mixtures are completely impervious to water.
Advantages of epoxy resins:
- high mechanical strength;
- resistance to chemical attack;
- slight shrinkage;
- excellent adhesion.
The waterproofing carried out with bituminous materials is not always able to provide the necessary level of safety, in addition, the material is vulnerable enough to mechanical stress, is destroyed after exposure to certain chemicals. As an alternative, sprayable waterproofing can be considered, which allows for a seamless coating.
Its longevity is not so impressive and is limited to 25 years. Such material should be applied exclusively to a surface specially prepared in a special way, which requires a lot of labor and a significant waste of time. In addition, the sprayed material is quite expensive, and its effectiveness is low.
If you do not want to use expensive materials to seal well joints, you can use thick hemp ropes. They should be hammered into the seams, and the resulting surface should be coated with cement mortar. The method is good, but not for drinking wells. This is due to the fact that if hemp is constantly in a humid environment, it will undergo decay processes, which will turn the material into a source of infection, this will worsen the quality characteristics of drinking water.
Mounting
According to SNiP, before proceeding with the waterproofing of wells, it is necessary to prepare their inner surface, regardless of whether you carry out the work yourself or entrusted this matter to professionals. To do this, use a metal brush, which needs to process the surface of the walls and the bottom of the wells.
SNiP involves applying the sealing compound exclusively to a clean surface, so with a brush you should rid the walls and bottom of dust, traces of cement mortar, etc. These measures are necessary so that the waterproofing mixture penetrates as deep as possible into the thickness of the concrete, filling the voids.
According to SNiP, the first to seal joints and joints. In order for the mixture to more firmly “take”, the joint must first be moistened. After you can start applying the waterproofing composition, which should be done with a brush. At the same time, the well at the joints should be treated with a composition designed specifically for joints, which is indicated in the instructions.
The waterproofing of wells in the next step involves the processing of the walls and bottom. For this, the surfaces must also be thoroughly moistened. Concrete should absorb as much water as it can. After you can begin to impose a layer of waterproofing mixture. According to SNiP, several layers should be applied to the surface, proceeding to the next only after the first is completely dry. In this case, the entire surface must be re-moistened.
Figure 2 shows a technical solution involving an external and internal waterproofing of a well. According to SNiP, the well must be processed at the seams, on the inner and outer surfaces, and what material to use for this can be determined independently. So, in this case, a polyurethane sealant was used in the joints, which has high elasticity. The inner surface of the well is processed using a reinforcing mesh.
Waterproofing can be carried out with the number of layers that the manufacturer recommends. After the well is sealed, you need to wait about 3 days - this is the time it will take for the composition to harden. This period, the surface of the walls and the bottom of the well should not be subjected to mechanical stress. According to SNiP, insulation work should be carried out at a positive temperature, this is important, because otherwise the mixture will not be able to gain the necessary strength after application.
After insulation, the exposed surfaces must be kept moist to help prevent cracking of the material. It is preferable to moisturize using a spray. If you are deprived of the possibility of wetting the surface several times a day, the well - all its walls and the bottom - should be covered with a film, which will reduce the evaporation process.
Hydroprotection Methods
Waterproofing of a drinking well can be carried out using PVA glue and cement. To do this, you need to prepare a thick mixture, slowly pouring cement into the PVA, while the resulting mass must be mixed. There are no exact proportions, the main thing is to pour cement until the mixture reaches such a consistency that it can be taken on a spatula. Then, using the finished composition, you can close up the seams formed by concrete rings.
A special method of preparing the mixture for the first layer will increase the level of penetration of the waterproofing composition into concrete: the composition must have a liquid consistency so that it can be applied with a brush. In this case, the seams should be clogged as deep as possible. After waiting for the moment when the first layer dries, you can start applying the second layer of a thick mixture.
If you adhere to building codes, work on the waterproofing of the drinking well can be carried out with ready-made mixtures. They will be somewhat more expensive, but it is more convenient to use them. This mixture should also be laid in the joints with a spatula, and the surface of the joints must be moistened in advance.
The use of geotextiles for waterproofing involves the use of liquid glass in the process of work. Geotextiles should be the first to be sealed as tightly as possible first. And the finished surface of the seam should be insulated with liquid glass. In addition to the seams, it is necessary to cover up each flaw in the well (pits, cracks, etc.), this measure is necessary, since such damage in its raw form will eventually pass water into the concrete ring.
You can protect the well from moisture penetration by the method of a waterproofing lock. The method, unlike the previous ones, provides for the isolation of the outer walls from the influx of water-top water. During the installation of the rings, about a couple of meters from the surface of the earth, a trench should be left near the walls, the width of which should be equal to 50 cm. It should be filled with clay.
On the surface of the earth, clay should be laid out with a slope so that rainwater drains from the well. This method gives three rings located on top of the ability not to pass near groundwater, and clay laid on the surface layer will isolate the walls of the well from precipitation.
The insulation of the outer walls will be enhanced by wrapping the well with polyethylene in several layers. It can be fixed with waterproof tape or with a glue gun.
As a universal way to restore the lost waterproofing is the insert of the liner made of plastic. If problems with waterproofing were discovered during the operation of the well, slips were made in the insulation work. To avoid emergency repairs, you should trust the work of highly qualified teams, and if the work is carried out by you personally, you must follow the rules prescribed in SNiP.
Sewer wells, just like drinking ones, need waterproofing. If reservoirs leak, it is fraught with contamination of the soil, aquifers. In addition, surface water can enter the tank. This rarely leads to any particular problems, but it can still cause a malfunction of the system. What should be high-quality waterproofing of sewer wells? How to choose materials?
Plastic containers are initially sealed, they do not have to be protected from water, but concrete structures often leak at the joints. When designing the waterproofing of sewage wells, it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the materials from which they are made, the level of occurrence of aquifers, the type of soil. Appropriate waterproofing agents are selected depending on this.
When is waterproofing sewer wells
There are several reasons why a sewer well flows in different zones:
- Bottom. Leaks in the bottom occur if the waterproofing materials were initially improperly selected or worn out over time. If a leak has arisen in the bottom, water can flow in both directions: outflows flow out, and surface water can flow in. The bottom of the septic tank must be well insulated even at the stage of installation of the structure.
- Pipe entry points. This zone also needs high-quality protection during construction. To enter the pipes make holes larger than the diameter of the products themselves. The remaining gaps are sealed with cement-sand mortar. Ideal if the owner of the treatment plant immediately buys cement with hydrophobic additives. If not, you will have to take care of insulation with special materials.
- Joints and seams. It is especially important to properly waterproof concrete structures at joints and seams. Even a quality installation does not guarantee that the septic tank will not leak. There are special materials thanks to which it is possible to reliably protect the joints from moisture. They expand from the water and close the gaps tightly.
- Cracks in the walls. Even very strong materials break down over time, especially if the structures are located underground. The reasons for the wear of the walls of septic tanks are time, soil movements, exposure to aggressive substances. Cracks and leaks occur. If this happens, it is worth using repair materials based on polymers. If everything is done correctly, then the slots will be closed for many years. Surfaces can be treated with penetrating compounds.
Design diagram of a concrete well for sewage
Two main types of moisture protection - internal and external
In order to invest as little effort and money as possible, but get a sealed structure, it is worth focusing on building codes and specifications, technical conditions. The waterproofing of sewer wells is regulated by the code SNiP 2.04.03-85 “Sewerage. External networks and facilities. ” Read this document when designing your system.
There are only two types of waterproofing of sewer wells - inside and out. To ensure that the sewer system is airtight, you should take care of this even when purchasing materials. If you plan to build a concrete structure, you need to order high-quality rings. Saving on them will lead to problems during operation.
The waterproofing scheme "Penetron" and "Penekrit"
Moisture resistant concrete rings
When buying concrete rings, carefully read the technical and operational characteristics of the material. Feel free to ask questions to sales consultants. It is necessary to find concrete with special additives that provide minimal moisture absorption. This halves the chance of wastewater seeping into the ground.
Important! In regions with a harsh climate, there are high demands on the arrangement of sewage systems. Conventional rings made of moisture-resistant concrete can not always be used, so when choosing materials it is worth consulting with a specialist.
Moisture-resistant concrete rings
How to make external waterproofing
For external waterproofing, clay lock technology is used. They are structures made of densely packed clay layers. The depth of such a castle depends on the level of occurrence of the tip.
If rings made of water-repellent concrete were chosen during construction, then castle external waterproofing will be enough. For more reliable protection, roll materials can be used.
Often choose a good old roofing material. This is the cheapest way to achieve sealing of sewer wells. If the means allow, it is better to purchase more modern rolled materials. They are reliable and last much longer.
Preparation for waterproofing
How to protect the well from the inside
Internal waterproofing is performed using plastering and painting materials. A great option is the use of penetrating compounds. They can be used both externally and internally. Domestic compositions of the Penetron system have proven themselves well.
When choosing materials, there is only one requirement - reliable protection against moisture for a long time. Since this is not about a drinking well, environmental safety is a secondary issue, but it is also worth paying attention to, because water leaks into the ground during leaks.
Scheme of the use of waterproofing materials
Preparation before waterproofing
If work is being done on waterproofing the existing sewer well from concrete rings, then liquid should be pumped out of the tank and wait for the surfaces to completely dry. After this, the concrete is thoroughly cleaned of exfoliated pieces, dedusted with primers, remove dirt, build-up of deposits.
If pieces of reinforcement become visible during operation, then they are also cleaned, covered with anti-corrosion compounds. Joints, seams, cracks that appeared during the operation of the structure, expand and deepen. This is necessary for treatment with sealing compounds. The larger the area, the better the adhesion of materials. The optimal crack depth is 25 mm.
As primer materials, you can use the compositions that are offered by construction stores, or you can make a primer yourself. To do this, mix gasoline and bitumen in a ratio of 3: 1, mix until a homogeneous composition is obtained. Surfaces are primed in two layers with a wide brush or roller. The second layer is applied after the first has dried. Seams are insulated with penetrating, cementitious compounds.
Homemade bitumen and gasoline primer
How to waterproof a sewer well yourself
The simplest and cheapest methods of waterproofing sewer wells is a clay castle, insulation with roll materials, penetrating compounds. You can use combined options: clay castle and penetrating materials, clay castle and roofing material.
By applying two insulation options, the owner will receive a completely sealed sewer well that will last for many years without the slightest leak. Consider the most popular way of moisture protection with your own hands.
Combined moisture protection: roofing material + clay
- The walls of the structure are dug up to full depth.
- The surface of the concrete is cleaned. If necessary, use a jackhammer to remove loose particles.
- The concrete is washed, salt deposits are removed with the help of spatulas, brushes for metal and other suitable tools, and primed.
- After the concrete has dried, it is leveled, closing the cracks with a cement-sand mortar. PVA glue can be added to the mixture to improve material performance.
- The walls of the structure are coated with mastic - bitumen or bitumen-polymer. It is better to choose the second option, because bituminous mastic is considered less reliable.
- A ruberoid is glued onto the mastic with overlap, carefully lubricating the seams. The insulation is applied in 3-4 layers. When the materials are dry, you can fill up the structure and equip the clay castle.
- Clay with a percentage of sand of 5-15% will be required. It is prepared in advance so that it lies down and freezes at least one winter. The solution is prepared by adding lime (20% of the clay volume) and a little water to obtain a plastic mass after mixing.
- Clay is laid in a pit dug around a well, layers are carefully compacted, a clay blind area is arranged so that atmospheric waters do not flow under the castle.
- It is possible to backfill the bottom of the pit with a sand and gravel mixture. Then the clay layers are laid on top of the bulk materials.
Schematic: proper clay castle design
We do the internal waterproofing with our own hands
For waterproofing sewer wells in wet soils, plastic is used: a pipe made of polyethylene or an old waste barrel is put on a concrete or metal tank. Sometimes a container is placed inside a concrete septic tank and a sewer pipe is brought into it.
This method of moisture protection is quite effective, because polymer products are absolutely tight and not afraid of the effects of aggressive environments. However, it is much more reliable to immediately install a plastic container as a septic tank. In areas where groundwater is high, it is best to do so.
The most popular waterproofing materials for concrete treatment plants are penetrating, polymer-cement and bitumen compositions. They protect structures well from water and are easy to apply. Let's consider how to make internal waterproofing of sewer wells using these materials.
Method # 1: Penetrating Compounds
Penetrating materials are universal. Concrete impregnated with such compounds becomes stronger and more durable, because its structure is changing. Materials bind at the molecular level: a waterproofing agent penetrates concrete and crystallizes under the influence of water, clogging pores and microcracks. The surface acquires hydrophobic properties.
Penetron system materials are excellent for waterproofing concrete sewer wells. These are several compounds intended for impregnation of surfaces, sealing joints and joints, cracks. The method of application of each of the materials is described in detail by the manufacturer on the packaging. Waterproofing does not require sophisticated equipment or expensive tools, enough brushes, rollers, trowels.
Scheme: the scope of Penetron and Penecrit
Work order:
- After preparing the surfaces, the seams and joints are treated. Ideally, this should be done at the stage of installation of concrete rings, installing seals.
- Penetrating materials are applied to the concrete surface with a brush or roller in two layers. If the mixture is dry, it is prepared in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
- The time for complete drying is 3 days. During this period, the coating should be regularly moistened.
Method # 2: bitumen materials
The inner surface of concrete tanks is often covered with hot bitumen. After drying, it forms a dense water-repellent layer on the surface. However, the finished coating is not elastic enough, so it cracks after a few years. Leaks may occur.
A more practical option is the use of bitumen mastic, which initially includes additives to improve the operational characteristics of the compositions. Mastics adhere well to the bases, tolerate frosts better, serve longer. An additional plus - they do not require heating, which simplifies the work.
The method of applying bitumen mastic:
- Surfaces are cleaned, prepared, seams and cracks are closed.
- Concrete is treated with a primer, left to dry for 24 hours.
- Mastic is applied using a convenient brush or trowel. If the composition is too thick, it is diluted with gasoline or a solvent.
- For high-quality waterproofing, 2-3 layers are required. The drying time of each layer is one day.
Bituminous mastic for waterproofing
Method # 3: polymer cement insulation
Cement and polymer cement materials are a worthy alternative to bitumen. They do not emit harmful substances, they are well resistant to aggressive chemicals, and have a long service life.
Protective coatings made using such materials serve as much as the building structure itself. The compositions are suitable for waterproofing sewer wells in wet soils.
The method of applying cement and polymer-cement materials:
- The surface is prepared: cleaned, dedusted, slightly moistened.
- The material is applied in two layers, without gaps. The second layer is applied when the previous one is just beginning to set, and in the direction opposite to it.
- The total coating thickness should be 20-25 mm.
- In the places of pipe entry, the material is protected by a reinforcing mesh.
- The complete drying time of each specific product is indicated on the package.
Video: waterproofing sewer wells
It is necessary to take care of high-quality sealing of sewer pipes in the well. For this, self-adhesive anti-corrosion tapes and films are used. They reliably protect metal and plastic pipelines from freezing, the negative effects of other environmental factors.
If the materials for waterproofing the sewer are selected correctly, their service life is estimated at decades, so it makes sense to choose the best of what the market offers. In the end, the total cost of water protection does not exceed 2-5% of the cost of building the system as a whole. Saving is not rational.
If you have doubts about materials or technologies, you do not need to experiment. This will require specialist advice.
Wells, as such, can provide the owner with not only large, but also a constant amount of water. A well-made well will make it possible not to depend on general water supply systems. Another plus in the well is that the water is not only cleaner than in water pipes, but also tastier. However, in order for it to remain so, one should take care of the quality of the well, protect it from rainwater, debris and much more.
For example, you can put a roof, thereby providing protection from rainfall. In addition, you should take care of waterproofing, which is of two types:
- external type of waterproofing;
- internal option.
It should be noted that both of these species are of great importance, it is not just meaningful to equip a well with them, but it is extremely necessary.
What is waterproofing for wells for?
Even if you don’t make an elementary roof from rainfall over the well, over time, the well will begin to grind, the water will become not just dirty, but unsuitable for consumption.
As for waterproofing, it has a lot of positive aspects, because of which it makes sense to do its installation:
- as already mentioned, first of all, wells serve as sources of high-quality drinking water. But the presence of groundwater over time begins to destroy the walls of the well, then particles of soil, clay, salt, or various chemicals that are used when working with the soil begin to get into drinking water. High probability of getting into the well of petroleum products. Water containing such impurities will be extremely harmful for use in the kitchen. It will need to be cleaned, and it is not a fact that cleaning will give the desired effect;
- further, if a septic tank is not being built, but the soil needs to be protected, waterproofing will also be extremely useful here;
- there are technical wells, with various details - for example, piping, so water penetration into such a well is extremely undesirable. And in this case, waterproofing can help.
In addition, waterproofing the well, both internal and external, will not be difficult. There are many craftsmen and even companies ready to offer such services. But if you don’t want to spend money, then it is also possible to do everything only on your own.
Again, the advantage of this method is the fact that in the modern market you can find a lot of options that you can use in your well. Simply put, you can choose by quality, by price, etc.
In all this, the main thing is that the waterproofing of wells in wet soils performs its functions, whatever it may be - technical, with drinking water, or sewer.
External well waterproofing
The purpose of such work is to maximize the isolation of the well from the effects of groundwater on the walls.
It will be optimal to carry out such work even during the construction of the well, since in the future it will become quite complex and time-consuming work. A large amount of earthwork will be required. Of course, in rare cases, sometimes it is preferable to repair an old well, than to dig a new one.
For the laziest, the main work can be called building a roof over the well, which will protect it from atmospheric precipitation. Also, it is necessary to build a clay castle, which will divert precipitation that has already fallen to the ground so that they do not penetrate the soil into the well.
The work with the bottom of the well will be extremely important - it is best to fill it with clean stones, and pour gravel on top.
Selection of materials
The current market offers the owners of wells a huge range of products providing waterproofing:
- the most popular is the roofing material and its subspecies - various roll options, the basis for which is bitumen. With them, mastics are also relevant;
- you will need a cement mortar, used for repair work, as well as various damages, and the construction of the blind area, which should be done around the well;
- the construction of the castle, for which clay or gravel should be stocked, is also extremely important; sand can also be used;
- an alternative to roofing material may be materials with the use of various impregnations;
- another option is shotcrete well walls.
Installation Rules
If you decide to use roofing material or its analogues - you should ensure maximum adhesion. To do this, it is worth applying a primer, it is also used for repair. Next, after the primer has dried, you need to start repairing the walls - eliminate all potholes and large cracks, etc., like that. For this, it is best to use a cement mortar, despite the fact that it dries for a long time. Also, cement-sand mix in conjunction with glue, but only thick, should be called relevant for use in these cases. After everything is dry, the walls will need to be primed again. Now you can apply the coating material - it may be bitumen mastic. Ruberoid will be glued onto it. It is better to stick it in several layers, up to 4. At the same time, all the seams must be greased with mastic.
If you apply impregnation - you do not need to use a primer. It is necessary to moisten the surface of the walls, coat them with a special waterproofing solution, but only of deep application. Then a second coat should be applied and left to stand for 3-4 days. So that the work is not in vain - the impregnation does not crack - throughout the whole time it should be moistened and any damage should be excluded.
When gunning walls, with a gun you need to apply a layer of cement, with a thickness of 6 mm, +/- 1. Next, you should wait for drying, which will take about a week and a half. It should be ensured that the walls do not dry out, do not crack, for this they should be watered every 3-4 hours in the summer, in hot weather, or once a day in cool, humid weather.
It should be noted that the external waterproofing should reach the top edge of the well. Further, around the well shaft, gravel, sand, or a mixture of them will need to be filled. Then you need to fill up the soil and carefully tamp. Along the perimeter, pour an inclined cement or concrete pavement.
Well waterproofing
Internal waterproofing is extremely convenient when carrying out external is physically impossible. During such works, the first action will be pumping out water, and during the work, it will be necessary to carefully monitor that the water level does not rise, right up to the finish line.
You should carefully examine the surface of the walls - to identify weaknesses and problem areas, such as:
- cracks and various damages;
- areas with loose concrete;
- places where dirt is present.
All these areas should be cleaned and “cured”. Next, you should definitely expand the slots of the well rings to a depth of about 30mm. If a leak appears, it should be eliminated immediately. Useful in this will be the use of hydraulic plugs. Be sure to clean all surfaces from dirt and dust.
After this, you can begin direct work on waterproofing.
Material selection
Relevant in this case will be a special, flexible cement, polymer mixture. She should cover the walls of the well. Be sure to make sure that such material is environmentally friendly, it will not cause any harm to human health.
Finally, the last thing you need is a cement composition of rapid solidification under the influence of water - this is the so-called hydraulic plug, which will be relevant in identifying active leaks. It can be found in almost any hardware store.
Mounting Features
After all the preparatory work, you should start using insulating materials - they need to be coated with walls. The surface of the walls itself must be moistened. It is most convenient to dilute the product in proportions so that it is as convenient as possible to apply it with a wide brush - this will reduce the time of work.
It should be coated in two layers, while allowing the first to dry.
If the well construction process is only planned, then all its elements should be pre-treated with waterproofing.
The last thing you should pay attention to is the bottom of the well, which also requires insulation. This is true for a communication well, and this can be done using roll material.
