ᐅ How to Make a Basement Permanently Watertight?

Created on: 15 May 2016 19:57
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Häuslebauer82
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Häuslebauer82
15 May 2016 19:57
Hello everyone!
At the beginning of April, construction of our semi-detached house finally started 😉
So far, so good.

We are building with solid construction, and since last week the basement walls are up. The basement exterior walls are made of prefabricated double walls, and the joints were fully sealed with waterproof concrete during the pouring process. And here comes my question/uncertainty. The gap between the basement wall and the floor slab is not completely sealed everywhere (see pictures). Because we have very high groundwater, the construction company has additionally sealed this area with bitumen and waterproof membrane on their own initiative. We also have a joint flashing, which is said to make it watertight now.
Although our architect is moving right next door, you never know.
At the two semi-detached houses next to us (same construction company and architect) everything is completely sealed...
Do we already have our first construction defect here?

I appreciate any help!

Concrete foundation slab with gravel base and a small black support


Shell foundation on construction ground with gravel, concrete, and visible wall termination


Small dog standing on gravel floor next to concrete wall at shell foundation


Exterior wall with black foundation waterproofing at the base, window opening, and gravel floor
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alter0029
15 May 2016 22:06
Instead of expecting a qualified answer here in the forum and from a distance, I would hire a building inspector to oversee the entire construction. It does cost money, but it is a worthwhile investment. In any case, we have already chosen an inspector for our building project.
One0015 May 2016 22:10
I don’t understand... If the walls are partially open at the bottom, wouldn’t the concrete flow out during the pouring?
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Häuslebauer82
15 May 2016 22:12
@ One00 : During the pouring, these were of course covered with boards.
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Häuslebauer82
15 May 2016 22:13
I am concerned about the gravel pockets that have formed between the concrete slab and the base of the wall.
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alter0029
15 May 2016 22:24
I can’t imagine that this is watertight and don’t understand why it wasn’t later filled with concrete, but I also don’t know if that can be done afterwards at all. However, I’m not an expert and if I were you, I would consult a professional. You will need one if you want to enforce your demands for proper corrective work. Otherwise, the construction company might just tell you whatever they want.