Considerations for Shotcrete and Blindside Waterproofing Applications: Fid-Bau Portal

Considerations for Shotcrete and Blindside Waterproofing Applications

Hartman, Kenrick J. / Stieve, Douglas R.

Blindside waterproofing is an application method commonly used for subgrade waterproofing installations where site excavation is restricted beyond the exterior face of the foundation walls. With this type of waterproofing installation, the membrane is installed prior to the construction of the structure and then concealed once the structure is in place. While there have been many successful blindside waterproofing applications. However, this method poses some unique challenges as the membrane cannot be observed or repaired after construction. When pneumatically applied concrete (commonly referred to as shotcrete) is used for wall construction, this concern is amplified during the placement of the concrete as the success of the waterproofing membrane installation is highly dependent on proper application of the shotcrete. Note that shotcrete is becoming more prevalent in below-grade construction due to the speed of which the shotcrete can be installed and the lower associated costs when compared to traditional cast-in-place concrete. Waterproofing system selection as well as the use of shotcrete should be determined early in the design process and will involve a multidisciplinary team including the structural engineer, architect, waterproofing consultant, as well as the owner and various contractors among others.