Planter boxes are a great way to create beautiful green spaces, but they also come with the responsibility of maintaining their structure over time. One of the most common issues with planter boxes is water damage. Whether made from brick, wood, or other materials, planter boxes require a strong waterproofing system to prevent moisture from seeping into the walls and causing damage.
This is where a waterproof membrane (also known as a “blanket system”) comes in. The membrane is designed to protect against moisture infiltration, but like any system, it degrades over time. So while patching cracks or leaks might seem like a quick solution, relying on temporary fixes will not prevent the overall system from failing. Let’s dive into why a full system revamp is the most effective approach for protecting your planter box and ensuring its long-term durability.
Here’s how the process typically unfolds:
1. Consultation
We start with a thorough consultation to introduce you to our Membrane System and provide tailored solutions.
2. Application
The membrane can be applied in various ways, including spraying, rolling, or pouring.
3. LAYERING
Apply the membrane in multiple layers to ensure maximum waterproofing effectiveness.
4. Barrier
Once applied, the membrane forms a seamless and watertight barrier that protects the underlying structure from water damage
Technical aspects:
1. Waterproof Membrane – The Core Protection
The waterproof membrane is the first line of defense in a planter box. Applied to the inner walls of the planter, it prevents moisture from reaching the surrounding structure, whether that’s brickwork or wood. Over time, the membrane will begin to degrade, especially when exposed to the sun’s UV rays, fluctuating temperatures, and constant moisture from plants and soil.
Without any membrane system, water will inevitably seep into the planter walls, compromising the structure and potentially leading to rot or mould growth. Regular maintenance and system updates are key to keeping the protection strong.
2. Thickness and Coverage – Ensuring Full Protection
To ensure a thorough seal, the membrane should be applied at a thickness ranging from 300mm to 700mm. This ensures that the membrane covers all surfaces inside the planter box, protecting it from water seepage and extending its lifespan. If the membrane is too thin or improperly applied, it will not provide adequate protection, and water can still leak through. With larger planters, the thicker the membrane, the better the protection.
3. Overlapping Layers – A Seamless Seal
When applying the membrane, it’s critical to overlap the edges by the required suppliers guidelines. This overlap ensures that there are no weak spots where water could potentially seep in. A continuous, seamless seal is necessary to maintain the planter box’s integrity. Patchwork fixes might cover up a crack temporarily, but they don’t address the fact that the whole membrane could be at risk of failure, leading to further damage down the line.
4. Degradation Over Time – The Membrane Will “Render”
Just as a roof wears down over time, so does the membrane. Over the years, the membrane will “render”—a term meaning that it will gradually degrade due to exposure to the sun’s UV rays, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. The membrane’s protective qualities will weaken, making it less effective at keeping water out.
What about patchwork fixes? Patchwork fixes might address small cracks, but they won’t prevent the membrane from continuing to degrade. Eventually, the membrane will no longer be able to fulfill its role, leaving the planter box vulnerable to water infiltration.