How do you protect the waterproofing membrane during backfilling?

Protection boards, geotextile layers or drainage membranes can be installed over the waterproofing membrane before backfilling to reduce the risk of damage from soil, aggregate, stones, construction activities and following trades.

Service Details

QBCC Licence · 20+ Years’ Experience · Free, No-Obligation Quote

Waterproofing applies a continuous, high-performance waterproof barrier directly to the exterior or positive-pressure face of a structure. By stopping groundwater, soil moisture, and surface run-off before it can penetrate concrete or masonry, positive-side systems act as your building’s primary defense line against hydrostatic pressure, concrete cancer, efflorescence, and long-term structural decay.

Whether for new high-density residential developments, commercial basements, civil retaining walls, or complex remedial excavations across South East Queensland, S&S Remedial Services delivers fully compliant, engineered positive-side waterproofing systems tailored to tough local site conditions.

Concrete wall crack for polyurethane injection

Our Waterproofing Solutions

Positive-Side Waterproofing Membrane
A suitable high-performance waterproofing membrane is applied to the external, water-facing side of the basement wall to prevent groundwater from entering the structure.

Crack & Joint Treatment
Cracks, construction joints, penetrations, and vulnerable areas are treated using appropriate sealing methods, including polyurethane or epoxy injection where required.

Protection Board & Drainage Layer
Protection board and drainage materials are installed over the membrane to help protect it from backfill damage and direct water toward the drainage system.

Drainage System (Optional)
A drainage cell, aggregate layer, and perforated drainage pipe help collect and redirect groundwater away from the basement and foundations.

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Why Choose Us?

End-to-End System Integration: We don’t just apply a membrane. We design and install complete system assemblies—including mechanical substrate preparation, detailing, protection boards, and subsoil drainage integration—to ensure total hydrostatic pressure relief.

Dual Remedial & New-Build Expertise: Whether sealing new below-grade foundations or executing complex external excavations to repair decades-old failed membranes, our team handles both new-construction scope and challenging remedial projects.

Engineered Membrane Selection: We specify heavy-duty, highly elastic liquid-applied polyurethanes, elastomeric coatings, and dimpled drainage membranes selected specifically for high-movement substrates and harsh soil conditions.

Strict Quality Control & Testing: Every project undergoes rigorous quality assurance, including substrate moisture testing, dry film thickness (DFT) checks, and thorough detail inspections before any backfilling occurs.

Full QBCC Licensing & NCC Compliance: All works are carried out in full alignment with AS 4654.1 & AS 4654.2 standards, backed by full insurance, QBCC licensing, and manufacturer warranty documentation.

South East Queensland Regional Knowledge: From high water tables in coastal Gold Coast sites to reactive clay soils across Brisbane and Ipswich, we understand local ground conditions and engineer systems that last.

Our Positive- Side Waterproofing Process

Assessment & Diagnosis

For existing structures, we identify water entry points, drainage failures and signs of structural movement. For new builds, we review the substrate, details and drawings.

Membrane Application

A high-performance membrane or cementitious system is applied to suit your structure and exposure conditions.

Surface Preparation

We remove dirt, efflorescence, mould, loose render and failed coatings, and repair cracks, voids and honeycombing. New substrates are cleaned and prepared to spec.

Drainage and Protection

Where access allows, we install or improve drainage (agi-pipe, drainage cells, geotextile) and add protection layers so the membrane isn’t damaged during backfilling or by following trades

Crack Injection & Repairs (if required)

Active cracks are treated with epoxy or polyurethane injection, and deteriorated concrete or blockwork is restored before waterproofing.

Quality Assurance & Handover

We check coverage, curing and compliance with the NCC and Australian Standards, then hand over with maintenance guidance and your warranty documentation.

COMPLIANCES

Protect your basement and building foundation with our exterior waterproofing solutions you can rely on.

Stop Water Problems Before They Get Worse

Q: Is positive-side waterproofing suitable for new builds and existing structures?

Yes. Positive-side waterproofing can be installed during new construction before backfilling, and it can also be used on existing structures to reinstate failed waterproofing systems where the exterior can be accessed or excavated.

Q: Do I need a licensed waterproofing contractor?

Waterproofing work in Queensland may require appropriately licensed contractors depending on the scope and value of the work. S&S Remedial Services holds QBCC Licence 15438819 and carries out waterproofing work in accordance with applicable NCC requirements and relevant Australian Standards.

Q: Can you work with builders, engineers and strata managers?

Yes. S&S Remedial works with builders, developers, engineers, tilers, renovators, strata managers and body corporates and can provide documentation to support project compliance and certification requirements.

Q: What are the signs I need positive-side waterproofing?

Common signs include water seepage through walls, damp or musty smells, mould, efflorescence, peeling or bubbling paint, cracks in concrete or blockwork, pooling water near foundations and moisture affecting retaining walls or below-ground structures.

Q: How much does positive-side waterproofing cost in Brisbane or Gold Coast?

The cost depends on factors including the size of the waterproofing area, site access, excavation requirements, substrate condition, drainage requirements and waterproofing system specified. A site inspection is normally required to provide an accurate quotation.

Q: Is waterproofing covered by building insurance?

Insurance coverage depends on the individual policy and cause of the damage. Some policies may cover sudden and accidental events while excluding gradual deterioration, maintenance issues or failed waterproofing. Property owners should check their policy wording directly with their insurer.

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From residential homes to commercial and strata buildings, we deliver tailored waterproofing systems built for long-term performance.

Brand We Trust

Testimonials

S&S Remedial delivers top-tier membrane waterproofing services for builders in Brisbane—always on spec, always on schedule. Their team’s attention to detail during external substrate preparation and their understanding of QBCC compliance make them a standout contractor.

Daniel R., Project Supervisor, Northside Developments

We had recurring damp issues along the lower section of our exterior retaining wall after heavy rainfall. S&S Remedial assessed the site, recommended a complete external positive-side membrane and drainage cell system, and executed the work flawlessly. The wall has remained completely dry through severe Brisbane storms.

Nathaniel Cooper, Springfield Lakes

” We partnered with S&S Remedial for below-grade membrane waterproofing across our South Brisbane site. They understand site constraints, AS 4654 standards, and the importance of protecting the barrier before backfilling. Reliable, professional, and easy to work with.”

Jason H., Construction Manager, Eastpoint Projects

“The water ingress treatment was handled professionally from beginning to end. The liquid polyurethane membrane system delivered outstanding quality and durability, holding up through intense rain. I couldn’t be happier with the result.”

Chole Fraser, Property Owner

“We brought S&S Remedial in for a tricky basements-and-lift-pit scope on a high-density build in South Brisbane. Their execution on the liquid polyurea membrane and protective dimpled sheet assembly was spot on. Passed engineer inspection with zero re-works required.”

Marcus Vance, Site Manager, Apex Constructions

As a structural engineer, I value sub-contractors who take AS 4654.2 compliance seriously. S&S Remedial’s detailing at the wall-to-footing junctions and their careful installation of geotextile protection boards before backfilling gave us absolute confidence in the long-term integrity of the structure.”

David Chen, Senior Civil/Structural Consultant

Core Applications

External wall waterproofing are ideal for external structural elements exposed to earth, standing water, or direct weather:

Exterior Retaining Walls & Below-Grade Foundations:
Protecting concrete blockwork, off-form concrete, and footings from lateral groundwater migration.

Basement External Walls & Lift Pits:
Sealing external outer walls during excavation or construction stages to ensure dry internal environments.

Exterior Planter Boxes & Rooftop :
Containing soil moisture and irrigation water to prevent leaching into surrounding podium slabs and lower habitable spaces.

Concrete Flat Roofs, Balconies & Podium Decks:
Creating elastomeric barriers directly beneath screeds, pavers, or ballast to handle rain and thermal movement.

Civil Structures & Water Retaining Infrastructure:
Protecting concrete tanks, pits, and sub-grade utility vaults against dynamic hydrostatic head.

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Project Gallery

Residential External Membrane Waterprofing

Commercial Lift Pit Membrane Waterproofing

School Retaining Wall Waterproofing

Residential External Wall Waterproofing

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Frequently Asked Question

Is positive-side waterproofing suitable for new builds and existing structures?

Yes. On new builds it’s applied during construction, before backfilling and following trades. On existing structures, it’s used to reinstate failed membranes and fix leaking walls wherever the exterior can be excavated or accessed.

Do I need a licensed waterproofing contractor?

Yes. In Queensland, waterproofing work over $3,300 must be done by a QBCC-licensed contractor. Unlicensed work risks fines, voided warranties and non-compliant results. S&S Remedial holds QBCC Licence 15438819 and works to the NCC and relevant Australian Standards, including AS 4654.

Can you work with builders, engineers and strata managers?

Yes. We regularly work with builders, developers, tilers, renovators, engineers and body corporates, and provide documentation to support certification and compliance.

What are the signs I need positive-side waterproofing?

Damp or musty smells, mould, white powdery efflorescence, peeling or bubbling paint, water seepage through walls, cracks in concrete or blockwork, stained ceilings under balconies or roofs, pooling water near walls, and bulging or leaning retaining walls.

How much does positive-side waterproofing cost in Brisbane or Gold Coast?

It depends on the size, access, excavation and materials. As a guide, small retaining wall projects (20–30 m²) often fall between $800 and $3,000, and professional waterproofing in Australia typically ranges from $40–$120 per m². Every property is different, so we provide a free, no-obligation quote after inspection.

How do you make sure the membrane isn't damaged during backfilling?

We install protection board or geotextile layers over the membrane and complete quality checks before any backfilling begins. This protects the barrier from stones, tools and following trades.

Is waterproofing covered by building insurance?

Generally not. Standard policies cover sudden and accidental damage, such as burst pipes, but usually exclude gradual leaks and failed waterproofing. Check your policy wording, or speak with your insurer.

07 2812 2774

Positive-Side Waterproofing Brisbane & Gold Coast