When planter boxes are installed above habitable or enclosed spaces, membrane failure can lead to serious structural issues. In this case, we were called out to inspect leaks within a basement carpark, caused by deteriorating planter box membranes on the podium level above.
This project highlights what can happen when planter box waterproofing is left to age or patched over — and why a full membrane system revamp is often the best solution.
👉 If you haven’t read our breakdown of why patchwork repairs often fail, check out our guide on Why Planter Boxes Leak for more context.
The Problem:
Leaks Through the Ceiling of a Basement Carpark
Water had begun seeping through the ceiling of the basement level, directly below large podium-level planter boxes. On inspection, we identified that the existing waterproof membrane system inside the planter boxes had failed in multiple areas, allowing water to ingress through cracks and delaminated sections.
Leaking Basement Ceiling
Called to inspect leaks within the basement carpark.
Inspection
Traced the leak to the podium level planterboxes. The existing planterbox membrane system was failing allowing water to ingress to the basement level.
A full system revamp was the only effective solution to prevent further damage and ensure long-term protection. Below is the full process we undertook to repair the planter boxes:
A Step by Step Approach:
Step 1: Excavate the Planter Box
Remove any soil, plants, or debris
Step 2: Clear and Remove Debris
Dispose of any remaining materials, such as old roots or unwanted objects.
Step 3: Clean and Grind Surfaces
Clean the surfaces of the planter box and grind back any delaminated or failed membrane.
Step 4: Apply Primer to Substrate
Apply reactivation primer to the substrate to prepare it for membrane application.
Step 5: Apply Primer to Substrate
Apply reactivation primer to the substrate to prepare it for membrane application.
Step 6: Polyurethane Membrane
U.V Stable polyurethane membrane applied to the internal of the planter boxes.
Outcome:
Basement Carpark Protected, Planter Boxes Rebuilt
Once the waterproofing was complete and fully cured, the planter boxes were re-filled with soil and replanted. The podium level was restored, and most importantly, the basement ceiling was protected from further water ingress.
This job highlights the importance of:
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Thorough membrane inspection
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Avoiding patch fixes
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Using a complete, uninterrupted waterproofing system
Waterproofing Services areas:
Australia-Wide, with Key Areas in Queensland, Melbourne & 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.
In 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.
Additionally, our New South Wales Metro franchise is available to assist with waterproofing needs NSW Metro.
From injection waterproofing to membrane waterproofing, we have the expertise to solve a wide range of waterproofing problems. You can reach our NSW Metro franchise directly at [email protected] or 0418 830 860.
Wherever you’re located, we’re ready to provide reliable, long-lasting waterproofing solutions.
Need Help With a Leaky Planter Box?
If you’re dealing with leaks or suspect issues with your planter box, we offer expert waterproofing and repair services to get your planterbox back in shape. Don’t let water damage compromise your property—contact us today to schedule an inspection!