Planter box waterproofing and membrane repair were urgently needed when our team was called to an apartment complex along Brisbane’s Riverwalk. The site presented a series of planter boxes that had been left exposed since the 2022 floods.
With clear signs of membrane failure and structural stress, it was time to step in and restore these planter boxes. With new landscaping plans in motion, ensuring the integrity of the waterproofing system was essential.
The Problem: Flood Damage Meets Harsh Queensland Climate
Following prolonged exposure to floodwaters and UV radiation, the existing bitumen-based waterproofing membrane (WPM) had deteriorated beyond repair. Blistering, cracking, and delamination were evident across multiple planter boxes, making them unfit for reinstatement of vegetation without complete remediation.
Why Immediate Action Was Essential
Replanting over compromised waterproofing would only mask the issue temporarily leading to further water ingress, structural damage, and expensive rework. Before applying any new waterproofing membrane, three crucial steps needed to be completed:
- Full removal of all damaged, degraded, and flood-affected waterproofing membrane. As well as removal of all vegetation and organic matter from planters
- Neutralisation of all surfaces to ensure optimal adhesion and long-term performance of the new membrane system.
- Installation of a bond breaker around all upturns, drains, and penetrations to prevent any potential failures at critical points.
Why Immediate Action Was Essential
Replanting over compromised waterproofing would only mask the issue temporarily leading to further water ingress, structural damage, and expensive rework. Before applying any new waterproofing membrane, three crucial steps needed to be completed:
- Full removal of all damaged, degraded, and flood-affected waterproofing membrane. As well as removal of all vegetation and organic matter from planters
- Neutralisation of all surfaces to ensure optimal adhesion and long-term performance of the new membrane system.
- Installation of a bond breaker around all upturns, drains, and penetrations to prevent any potential failures at critical points.
After ongoing discussions, we made the informed decision to change the waterproofing system entirely. To meet the project’s performance, timeline, and environmental challenges, we opted for our preferred GCP Silcor HB high-build polyurethane system.
The Outcome: Landscaping-Ready and Built to Last
This project is a perfect example of the importance of choosing the right waterproofing system—not just for today’s conditions, but for tomorrow’s risks. By proactively adjusting our approach, we’ve ensured the planters are watertight, structurally sound, and ready for their green revival.
Related Services:
Secant Pile Leak Sealing
Sealing water ingress through secant pile walls on coastal and high-groundwater sites using high-pressure injection methods.
Basement Waterproofing
Addressing active leaks in commercial and residential basement structures during or after excavation.
Excavation Stabilisation
Injection waterproofing for deep excavations where groundwater or seepage compromises site safety or delays construction.
Specialist high-pressure crack injection using SNSeal
Injectable Sealant to permanently seal concrete cracks and prevent future water leaks.
Retaining Wall Waterproofing
Treating cracked or leaking concrete and block retaining walls with non-invasive sealant systems.
External Membrane Waterproofing
Durable external membrane systems installed to reinforce waterproofing barriers and protect retaining walls, garages, and basements from persistent water ingress.
Waterproofing Service Areas:
Australia-Wide, Key Areas include Queensland, Victoria & New South Wales
We provide waterproofing services Australia-wide, with our head office based on the Gold Coast. Our expert waterproofing solutions cover:
Queensland, including key service areas in Brisbane such as but not limited to Brisbane CBD, Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill, and West End, as well as Gold Coast areas like Southport, Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, Coomera, Robina, and Tweed Heads. From injection waterproofing to membrane waterproofing, we offer a range of reliable solutions for both residential and commercial properties.
Victoria, we provide professional waterproofing services in Melbourne and surrounding areas, including but not limited to Melbourne CBD, Southbank, St Kilda, and Docklands. We also service other parts of Victoria, offering membrane waterproofing and other high-quality waterproofing solutions across regions such as Geelong, Werribee, Ballarat, and beyond. Our injection waterproofing methods ensure long-lasting protection for your property.
New South Wales, our NSW Metro franchise is here to help with all your waterproofing needs. From injection waterproofing to membrane waterproofing, we provide expert solutions for a wide range of waterproofing issues.
Contact the NSW Metro team directly at [email protected] or 0418 830 860.
Need Help With Planter Box Waterproofing or Water Ingress?
If you’re noticing water ingress, leaks, or dampness around your planter boxes or surrounding areas, contact us today to arrange a free professional inspection and tailored waterproofing solution.