Elevator Pit Waterproofing

Elevators pits can be susceptible to flooding and water leakage because of the fact that the pits are usually one of the lowest points in a building and therefor below grade. Water can seep into the pit and pool there causing damage to the concrete foundation and to the elevator equipment. There are many things that can cause this problem like a natural disaster, aging concrete foundation, exterior wall sealant degradation, or faulty construction. More than likely this can cost tens of thousands of dollars in repairs to the elevator. In most circumstances elevator pit waterproofing can eliminate this problem.

For example, an elevator pit can be compromised from cracks in the concrete. This repair can be fixed by pumping any existing water out of the pit then repairing the cracked concrete. Then you can move forward with the waterproofing process.

Solutions

First off, patch any cracks in the concrete using a Portland cement mixture. Push this mixture into the cracks using a grout trowel. Allow the patch material to dry before sealing the concrete. Next, apply a deep penetrating sealer to the concrete. The sealer will migrate deep into the substrate and strengthen the cement fills.

Creto Deep Penetrating Sealer (DPS) is a great option for a water based, low odor, waterproofing sealer. It permanently waterproofs treated concrete, preventing any water seepage through the porous concrete. It can also be applied to moist or wet concrete. In this scenario, a second application is required the following day. This process is much more cost effective than most types of repairs and can be done by most contractors or elevator technicians.

This technique can be done to any below grade concrete structure with water leakage problems. Creto DPS is by far the best solution for concrete waterproofing.