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NEWTON MEMBRANES
 

Installation Manual 4th Edition

NEWTON SYSTEM 500

WATERPROOFING MEMBRANE SYSTEM

by

JOHN NEWTON AND COMPANY LIMITED

12 Verney Road

London

SE16 3DH

Tel: 020 7237 1217

Fax: 020 7252 2769

e-mail: newtons@newtonmembranes.co.uk

web: www.newtonmembranes.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

September 2001

© John Newton & Co Ltd

SECTION TITLE

1.                                     Introduction

2.                                     Preparation

3.                                     Wall Application Newton 500

4.                                     Wall Application Newton 500 Lath

5.                                     Floor Application Newton 500

6.                                     Floor Application Newton 520

7.                                     Vault Application

8.                                     Sealing Instructions             

9.                                     Ventilation

10.                                   Repairs

11.                                   Maintenance

12.                                   Basic Material Guide

APPENDIX 1

Technical Drawings Summary

 

SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION OF NEWTON SYSTEM 500

1.1    INTRODUCTION

John Newton & Co established in 1848 started in the damp proofing business in 1937 with the introduction of the original Newtonite (now Newlath 2000) and have with our unique long standing experience in this industry, evolved our products and technical data to the present high standard of advice we now offer.

Newton System 500 is a range of dedicated waterproofing membranes and associated products specifically designed for waterproofing structures below the ground.

The system works by lining the area to be protected with Newton membrane on the internal surface. All joints and fixings are sealed using the Newton range of tapes and sealants. System 500 can also be used as protection above substrates contaminated by carbon deposits, salts, fertilizers etc, and can also offer protection in high Radon gas locations.

The installation of Cavity Drainage Membrane systems is gaining increasing popularity over the more conventional methods of "tanking" because it does not seek to hold back water pressure. Water is allowed to seep through the substrate and as soon as it reaches the "air gap" provided by the studs of the Newton membrane, it immediately depressurises. The membrane is not designed to do more than provide a dry inner skin to separate the wet substrate and dry interior, with the studs acting as stilts to allow for this natural movement of water. The draining of the water away from the Cavity Drainage Membrane is therefore, vitally important and if implemented correctly cannot fail.

1.2    PRODUCTS WITHIN RANGE

Newton System 500 comprises a range of specifically designed complementary products. The complete range is listed below, together with a brief explanation of each product use:

Newton 500

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Cavity Drain Membrane with 8mm deep conical studs for walls, soffits and floors. Newton 500 is the main component of System 500 and comes in brown or clear (see section on clear membranes). Rolls are 20m long and either 2.07m or 2.4m wide including the 70mm flat jointing flange.

Newton 520

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Cavity Drain Membrane with 20mm deep conical studs for floors. Newton 520 is used above floors where greater drainage capacity is required. Rolls are brown or black and are 20m long and 2.07m wide including the 70mm flat jointing flange.

Newton 500 Lath

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Cavity Drain Membrane with 7mm deep conical studs for walls and soffits. The membrane has a nylon mesh thermally welded to the face of the membrane to act as a key for plasters and renders. Rolls are clear at 20m long and 2.07m wide including the 70mm flat jointing flange.

Nuseal Plugs

Polypropylene Fixing Plugs are used to attach all System 500 membranes to walls and soffits. They are predrilled to accept a size 12 (6mm) self-tapping screw for the fixing of battens or other dry-lining systems. 100 plugs per bag in either red or white.

Waterseal Rope

Butyl rope in a 10mm bead used for forming seal around the base of the Nuseal Plug and for jointing membrane when a flange seal is not possible. Rolls are 4.75m long in black or white.

Waterseal Tape

Butyl Tape used for jointing membrane along the flange. Rolls are 22.5m x 2mm x 30mm wide in black or white.

Newton Corner Strip

Black PVC backed one-sided tape used for connecting Newton 520 to Newton 500 and for repairs and reveal details. Roll is 12m long x 150mm wide

Basedrain

White PVC drainage conduit designed to drain System 500 at the wall/floor junction. Has 19mm holes every 70mm along its length to receive water pressure at the vulnerable junction of wall and floor. Has fittings to allow for connection to stack pipes, gullies and sump chambers, as well as inspection and jetting ports. Six 2m lengths per pack.

Titan Pump Systems

Pump, sump, battery back-up system designed to remove water behind the Newton membrane sytems.

BS8102 – DRAINED PROTECTION

British Standard BS8102: 1990 Protection of structures against water from the ground.

All waterproofing of structures below the ground, or those partially earth retaining, should be designed to comply with BS8102. Amongst other recommendations, BS8102 states that you should assume a head of water pressure to ¾ the depth of the basement, or for basements over 4m in depth the expected head of water is 1m below ground level. All waterproofing systems should be designed to deal with these pressures.

BS8102 defines Newton System 500 as Type C Drained Protection, and goes on to say that a Drained Type C system is the least likely to fail of all forms of waterproofing.

NOTE: Newton System is a drained cavity system. To comply with BS8102 adequate drainage must be included within the design to remove water from behind the system. Newton System 500 will not hold back water pressure.

1.4 FINISHING

A wide range of finishes can be employed to walls and floors. These provide protection for the membrane, and create a decorative finish.

1.5  TYPICAL FLOOR FINISHES – See technical drawings (JN100)

1. Sand and cement screeds - minimum depth 50mm.

2. Fast drying screeds with lightweight reinforcement.

3. Wood-based sheets (flooring grade with t & g joints).

4. Timber boarding on floor beams.

5. Sports floor.

All the above can be laid with insulation where specified.

1.6 TYPICAL WALL FINISHES                                                                                                                                                        

1.   Dry lining with battens (with or without insulation) using Newton 500.

Note: Additional insulation may lead to interstitial condensation

2. Dry lining with dabs using Newton 500 Lath.

3. Plastering direct using Newton 500 Lath.

4. Independent timber frame (50mm x 50mm timbers) using Newton 500.

5. Independent metal frame system such as Gypliner or Lafarge. Available from John Newton & Co. Ltd.

SECTION 2. PREPERATION

2.1 PREPARATION

Newton System 500 can be installed over a wide range of substrates in varying situations - walls, floors, ceilings, soffits, etc. However, before the
System is installed, the area must be assessed to determine what preparation is required.

a) All timber fixtures and other organic material must be removed to, prevent risk of fungal or bacterial growth behind the System, e.g. skirting boards, timber plates, old wallpaper etc.

b) If evidence of rot exists, this must be dealt with by a specialist contractor prior to installation of the system.

If any mould, etc, exists, this should be cleaned off and the area sterilised with a fungicidal wash.

c) If the walls are uneven or areas have deteriorated, then any large depressions should be levelled and made good to ensure a solid fixing.

d) When assessing floor applications, consideration should be given to the type of finish that is required.

The floor must be cleared of oil, loose material and any sharp edges should be levelled out.  When a screed finish is to be used, any holes or severe depressions should be filled before laying the membrane.

When a timber floor is preferred, then more consideration should be given to achieve a flat substrate prior to laying the membrane.  This will relieve any undue movement when fitting a final floor finish.

e) The design of the drainage system should be agreed, implemented and tested before covering by the membrane.

f) When fixing the system to flat soffits you must ensure that there is a fall to create proper drainage and prevent ponding. Any sagging of the membrane should not be great enough for ponding to take place.

SECTION 3. WALL APPLICATION NEWTON 500

3.1 TOOLS

Minimum Required

Good quality 110V SDS hammer drill.

Mallet or club hammer.

Stanley Knife with spare blades.

Tape measure.

Long spirit level.

11mm SDS drill bits.

Clean rags.

Stepladder.

Recommended

Trestle staging or scaffold for working above 2.5m.

Extra lighting.

Hot Air Gun.

3.2 WALL APPLICATION

The Newton 500 membrane is fixed with the studs against the wall to create an air gap.

The membrane can be fixed either vertically or horizontally. When making this decision, you will need to take into account the size of the job, and the height of the walls relative to the width of the membrane. Horizontal fixing requires less cuts and jointing but the full roll is very heavy at first (problems may also occur when the wall is not square, see paragraph below). Vertical fixing has very much lighter strips to fix, but requires that each of these is taped back together again. You may find that vertical fixing is easier, but requires more Waterseal Tape for jointing.

The membrane is fixed to the wall with the Nuseal plugs. You must apply a waterproof gasket around the rim of the plug using the Waterseal rope. These should be made up in advance of fixing.

Stretch the rope slightly as you circle around the base of the plug 1.5 times. Do not use excess rope – when hammered home only a small amount of rope should be seen around the bottom of the plug.

Place the Newton 500 in position as level as you can judge by eye. Using an 11mm drill bit, drill through the centre of a stud near the top and edge to a depth greater than the fixing. The fixing is then hammered into the pre-drilled hole until the plug sits flush in the stud. The rope gasket re-seals the hole. Level the membrane using the spirit level and fix another plug about 1.5m along at the top of the sheet. The membrane will now be hanging level to the wall.

If you are fixing horizontally, continue fixing every 1.5m until you have reached the end of the roll or you have covered all of the wall(s) to be treated. It is very important to regularly check the level. If the Newton 500 is not level, you may well find that the membrane is kinked and looks unsightly, it will also dive down around corners.

If you are fixing vertically, hang each subsequent sheet by the two fixings as described above. The subsequent sheet should overlap by at least the width of the flange of the new sheet. You may find it easier to interlock the first stud of the new sheet to the last stud of the last sheet as this helps to keep the new sheet level. The vertical joints have to be sealed with Waterseal tape. It is easier to apply the tape to the inner surface of the flange of the next sheet. Clean the flange an the face of the last sheet with a clean rag. When you have fixed the new sheet level with the correct overlap, pull off the backing paper from the tape and peel down whilst applying pressure to the flange. Once all the backing paper has been removed, apply more pressure with the palm of your hand to further seal the whole of the joint. A Hot Air Gun can be used to help sealing in very cold conditions.

3.3 FIXING CENTRES          TD(JN101)                                                     

Once the Newton 500 is hanging off the top fixings the rest of the fixing plugs need to be fixed.

The spacing of these fixings is dependant on the type of wall finish to be used:

Timber battens  - 400mm centers vertically and 600mm horizontally. Barrel Vaults require tighter centers.

Fixed metal track (Gypliner)  - 600mm centers vertically and 800mm horizontally.

Brick or block walls restrained to wall using ties should have the fixings at centres to provide the correct number of restraints at the correct centres.

Free standing timber and metal frames and free standing block walls do not require specific fixing centres. In these cases use sufficient fixings to ensure the membrane is neat and tidy and reasonably tight to the wall, especially around corners and reveals.

When fixing the system to flat soffits you must ensure that enough fixings are used to keep the Newton 500 tight to the soffits with no sagging.

All fixings should be in line both horizontally and vertically.

3.4 BATTENS

Battens should be pre-treated and of a minimum dimension of 25mm x 38mm although you may find that 25mm x 50mm offers better fixing at the edge of the plasterboard.

The battens can be fixed into the fixing plugs without piercing the membrane, by using 6mm (size 12) self-tapping screws. The plug will take 32mm of screw, so be sure to purchase the correct length for the thickness of batten.

Over-tightening of over length screws could break or loosen the plug. Be very careful not to puncture the Newton 500 when drilling and fixing the battens. Battens should be fixed so that all plasterboard edges are supported. Use a timber treatment such as ‘End Cut’ to protect cut battens.

Once the battens are fitted into position, plasterboard can be fixed to them using clout nails or preferably plasterboard screws. Care should be taken not to exceed the depth of the battens with the screws, and thereby puncture the
membrane.

3.5 ALTERNATIVE FIXINGS

Other finishes may be employed depending on the requirements of the specifier.

a) FREE STANDING FRAME

This method can be employed if the wall is undulating, as with some stone structures or where space loss is a secondary consideration. The frame would be fixed top and bottom, and would reduce the number of fixings required into the membrane.

b) PROPRIETARY FIXING SYSTEMS

Fixing systems such as Gypliner or Lafarge can be used with Newton 500  It is also possible to use metal profile systems when constructing new internal walls.  These can be fixed without bridging the Newton 500.

c) INTERNAL SKINS

If preferred the system can provide a water and vapour proof barrier, and then be lined with a block or brick inner skin.

SECTION 4. WALL APPLICATION Newton 500 Lath

4.1 FIXING TO WALLS

Newton 500 Lath is fixed to the walls in the same way as Newton 500 using the Nuseal plug and the Waterseal rope. As the roll is heavier, and it is only available in 2.07m wide rolls, most fixing of Newton 500 Lath will be vertical.

4.2 FIXING CENTRES

Fix in a square at 350mm centres, and then fix a plug in the centre of four fixings so it looks like a 5 on a dice. All fixings will then be a maximum of 250mm from each other. On very flat walls, the horizontal and vertical centres can be moved out to 400mm so when the centre plug is fixed, the centres are not more than 300mm.

4.3 FINISHES

Newton 500 Lath can be plastered or rendered, or can be plasterboarded using a dab fix.

4.3.1 PLASTERS

The plasters that can be applied to Newton 500 Lath are Thistle Hardwall (a minimum of 12 hours drying time must be included within any quotation), Tilcon Whitewall, Carlite Bonding or Universal Onecoat, which when applied to this material should be in two coats. These plasters can accept a Thistle Finish coat - a 3mm skim coat to finish.

NB Manufacturers recommended drying times may vary according to atmospheric conditions.

4.3.2 CEMENT BASED RENDERS

For internal cement renders the mix to be six parts clean sharp sand/one part lime or plasterciser/one part cement. A two-coat application is recommended allowing 7-10 day between coats. Drying time is important because shrinkage cracks may appear.

Note: All plasters and renders etc must be to a minimum total depth of 15mm. The undercoat should be applied with firm pressure to an approximate thickness of 5mm and be well scratched by means of a wire scratcher. When the scratch coat has set, the floating coat should be applied to a depth of 7mm and lightly scratched to provide a firm key for the final coat, which should be to a minimum thickness of 3mm.

All plasters and renders should be applied strictly in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, and good plastering/rendering practice as described in BS5492 and BS5262 Code of Practice.

Do not apply decoration until plaster is thoroughly dry.

Note: If plasters other than those specified above are used they will not conform to the John Newton and Company specification and will therefore invalidate any guarantee on the material. If any special renders or plasters are to be considered, technical advice must be sought from the Company's technical department in London.

4.3.3 DRY LINING

Newton 500 Lath can be effectively used in conjunction with dry lining by dab fixing the plasterboard using a proprietary dabbing compound.


SECTION 5. FLOOR APPLICATION NEWTON 500

5.1 PREPARATION                                                                          

Please refer to our section on preparation and attend to any preparatory work prior to Installation. Always clean both edges of the membrane before making a seal.

5.2 DRAINAGE REQUIREMENT     TD(JN107/JN116)                             

If Newton 500 is to be used in an earth-retaining situation, the membrane must be drained. To comply with BS8102, you must assume that the structure will be subjected to water ingress at some time. Newton 500 can also be used to the floor in above ground situations to provide isolation from damp floors either as the primary DPM or above green concrete to accelerate the contract program. The concrete will continue to cure below the dry membrane surface allowing for floor finishes to be laid above the membrane much quicker than normal.

5.3 METHODS OF DRAINAGE FOR NEWTON 500 TO THE FLOOR

The drainage must effectively remove all water from below the membrane and take to a point of discharge such as a sump chamber or a form of natural drainage. Standing water can block the membrane with silt or lime scale so it is important for water to flow uninterrupted to the drainage point.

5.3.1 CHANNELS CUT IN THE FLOOR

Channels can be cut across the floor in a herringbone fashion terminating at the sump chamber or other point of drainage.

The channels should be to fall, and be at least 50mm wide x 50mm deep. The channels can be made good with a lean mix and coved with a milk bottle or other tool. Test the channels before laying the membrane.

5.3.2 BASEDRAIN     TD(JN115)

Basedrain sits in at the wall/floor junction and collects water from behind the wall membrane and receives water under pressure at the wall / floor junction. Basedrain is a designed method of removing water as it can interface with sump chambers, stack pipes, gullies, waste pipes etc. It can also be cleaned by inserting jetting eyes into the system.

5.4 INSTALLATION OF NEWTON 500 TO THE FLOOR– EARTH RETAINING                        

Starting at one side of the room, unroll the Newton 500 with the studs down and the flanged edge against the wall. Turn the membrane up the wall by a minimum of five rows of studs. Where the membrane meets corners, see our section on corners. Whenever the membrane meets a wall you must allow an upturn as above.

The next membrane width is rolled out so that the flanged edge overlaps onto the studded edge of the last width. Clean both edges. Waterseal Tape is then applied to the studded edge of membrane over the second row of studs with the backing paper still intact. Check the two widths for alignment, with the flange covering the backing paper. Starting from the middle of the joint, remove the backing paper and press down on the joint sealing the two sections together. This process is repeated until all areas are covered.

When a stud to stud joint occurs, this should be overlapped and sealed with sealing rope as per our joint instructions. This should then be oversealed using Newton Corner Strip

If there are any services up through the floor, the membrane can be cut and trimmed around them, and the gap filled and sealed using the Newton range of adhesives. If necessary, a patch of membrane or plain DPC  (PVC) is laid over and sealed to the service with Waterseal Rope, and around its perimeter with Waterseal Tape.

The specified floor finish can now be laid directly over the Newton System 500, which must not be punctured by any fixings through the floor. When a timber floor finish is preferred you must allow an expansion gap around the wall edge. Speak to the supplier of the floor finish to confirm the correct size of this expansion gap.

5.5 INSTALLATION OF NEWTON 500  TO THE FLOOR – NON EARTH RETAINING

If a ventilated floor is required, then the excess membrane above the final floor level can be cut off flush. The skirting board, when fixed, will cover the gap around the edge. The skirting boards can then be vented.

5.6 FAST TRACK APPLICATION OF FLOOR FINISHES

Following the installation of new concrete slabs and screeds, it is normal to expect lengthy drying periods before floor finishes can be applied. Newton 500 can be laid onto green concrete as soon as it's 'walkable', allowing instant application of floor coverings without reference to RH levels. The construction moisture is controlled in the air gap.


SECTION 6. NEWTON 520              TD(JN112)

Where increased drainage capacity is required, or where known potential problems such as scaling or silting are expected, the deeper 20mm stud Newton 520 should be used.

6.1 INSTALLATION                                      

Because the stud depth is greater than the thickness of Waterseal Rope, Newton 520 cannot be upturned to the wall membrane as can Newton 500. Joining of the Newton 520 to the Newton 500 requires Newton Corner Strip.

Roll out the Newton 520 as normal, but abut the edge of the membrane to the wall membrane instead of overlapping up the face of the wall membrane. When all of the Newton 520 has been cut and laid, form a joint with the Cornerstrip.

The Cornerstrip is easier to use if the bottom half of the backing paper is removed first. Apply the Cornerstrip to the Newton 520, and then remove the backing paper to the upper half and stick neatly to the wall membrane (see installation diagram JN112).

SECTION 7. VAULTS

Newton 500 or Newton 500 Lath can be used for Vaults or Vaulted soffits.                         

7.1 INSTALLATION TO VAULTS OF NEWTON 500 AND Newton 500 Lath           TD(JN115)

A ceiling which is to be covered, as in a vaulted cellar construction, should be fixed and lapped in such a way so that water does not pond behind the system.

The laps and joints should also be detailed correctly to allow correct drainage, and prevent water from sitting on joints. Where flat soffits are being considered it is imperative that they should have a fall in line with drainage requirements. Again, sagging of the membrane should be avoided to prevent ponding.  If in doubt about soffits see Technical Drawing or ask our advice.

7.2  DRAINAGE         TD(JN116)

See section 5.2 and 5.3

7.3  APPLICATION

Where System 500 is to be installed in vaulted cellars our experience shows that the best method of application is as follows:

Measure the depth of the vault from front to back wall and allow for a down turn at each end of 200mm unroll the sheet and cut to size.

Estimate the approximate centre of the arched ceiling and mark it. Measure down the arch 1.2 meters from there and again mark it. Strike a horizontal line along the wall from back to front. This will give you a guide line for your sheet edge as you fix it along the length of the ceiling, thereby keeping your sheet sections symmetrical. You may wish to hammer in masonry nails to the guide line to give a physical edge to the guide line.

Offer up your first section of membrane to the ceiling allowing a downturn on the back wall of 200mm. Using your guide line to keep the sheet square and using an 11 mm drill bit, drill and fix the sheet along the apex of the arch following the same line of studs you will use the Nu-seal plug with rope for this application.

The fixings should be fixed through the centre of the studs at approximately 600mm centres.

It should be remembered that the plugs provide the fixing points for your battens; therefore they should be kept in line.

Your next section of membrane is again cut to size allowing a 200mm lap at each end.  Before offering up the next sheet a Waterseal Tape joint should be applied to the edges of the first sheet either on the flanged edge or between the last two rows of studs on the none-flanged edge. With the protective paper left on the tape you can now offer up the next sheet ensuring that you use the flanged edge to overlap onto the sealing tape.

Once you have the second sheet positioned correctly over the sealing tape, remove the protective paper working out from the middle and effect a seal.

You can now carry on fixing the sheet as previously described. This process is repeated until you have covered the sidewalls and arched detail down to floor level, maintaining a 200mm lap onto the end walls.

7.4 VAULTS – END WALLS TD (JN107/JN109/JN115)

At the end walls of vaulted construction, the Newton Membrane along the arch and side walls must be turned down and round onto the end walls by a minimum of 200mm. Around the arch the turndown is cut to fit the curve and sit neatly against the wall. Do not make the cuts all the way up to the ceiling and make as few cuts as possible. Measuring the highest point of the arch, the membrane is cut to size and fixed to the end walls in front of the ceiling membrane. The membrane is then trimmed to fit neatly into the curve of the ceiling.

The end wall membrane is then pulled back at the sides and around the arch to expose the studs on the reverse side using Waterseal Rope, a joint is made by the same method at the stud/stud joint details, with the exception that around the arch the rope should follow the contour of the ceiling curve.

7.5 FLOORS

Where a floor application is required in this situation, which is common practice in this type of specification, it is laid as per our standard floor installation and sealed to the walls using rope or tape according to the type of joint. However, if the floor is not being done - you should provide for the correct drainage facility.

Advice from our Technical Department is available in this situation

7.6 DOOR OPENINGS

When you fit the Newton 500 to the end wall with the door opening, please bear in mind that you will have to fit a section of membrane around the door head and lapped down the sides by approximately 100mm. You can then wrap the wall membrane around the sides, maintaining the correct drainage detail and forming an overlap.

This application detail will produce a small gap on the angle of the door opening. This should be sealed using Newton Corner Strip.

7.7 OVERHEAD INTRUSIONS        TD(JN103)                 

Where service pipes, electrical wiring or other intrusions occur overhead or around the arch, these should be re-sited to a vertical surface where they can be better sealed and re-situated on the dry side of the system.  Most services can be concealed between the battens.

SECTION 8. SEALING INSTRUCTIONS

8.1 GENERAL

It should be noted that all membrane and sealing surfaces must be clean, dry and dust free before applying sealing materials. When making a joint between two sections of membrane, the water seal tape or rope should be pressed firmly against the Newton membrane for good adhesion.

There are two standard types of sealed joints that can be made: The flanged joint or stud/stud joint.


8.2 THE FLANGED JOINT   TD(JN102)

The flanged joint should be used whenever the flat edge of System 500 can be facilitated. Consecutive membrane widths are fixed to the walls or laid on the floor so that the flange lays over the top of the studded edge of the previous sheet. The flange must cover a minimum of two rows of studs. Using the Newton Waterseal Tape, unroll this onto the studded edge sheet, beneath the flange. The tape should be positioned between the last two rows of studs on the flat section, and pressed firmly into place.

The backing paper should still be on the tape at this point.

Check that the flanged edge of the upper membrane is in position and covering two rows of studs before removing the backing paper from the tape.

Once the flanged edge is in position, remove the tape's backing paper, starting from the middle of the joint. Press the two membrane layers together firmly as you remove the protective backing paper.

8.3 STUD/STUD JOINT       TD(JN102)

Where a flanged joint is not possible, overlap the membranes to be joined by a minimum of three rows of studs. The joint is then formed by using the Waterseal Rope adhesive.

This is done by lifting back the edge of the upper membrane to reveal the underside of the studs

The Waterseal rope is then positioned between the last two rows of studs, and pressed firmly into place.

Checking that the upper membrane is still positioned correctly, remove the rope's backing paper, starting from the middle of the joint. Press the two membrane layers together firmly as you remove the protective backing paper.

Where a stud/ stud joint is unavoidable on a floor application (not the floor/wall upturn), this should be over-sealed using the Newton Corner Strip.

8.3.1 NOTE: When making a stud/stud joint always position the rope between the studs on the reverse side of the membrane, and not on the surface you are sealing to. This will ensure an even seal.

SEALING AT: -

8.4 CORNERS

When System 500 is being laid as a floor only application, or as part of a sealed application, the membrane is turned up the walls.

8.5 INTERNAL CORNERS   TD(JN112)

The membrane is worked into the corner and the membrane upturn is cut, allowing it to overlap and sit neatly into the corner.

This is then sealed using corner strip. The Corner Strip is folded and cut to form an angled section to fit neatly into the corner. Once formed, care should be taken to remove the backing paper and position neatly into the angle of the corner.

8.6 EXTERNAL CORNERS   TD(JN113)

When fitting the membrane around an external corner the sheet is cut at 45° from the lower point of the corner.

This allows the membrane to continue along the floor and maintain an upturn. This will also create a 'V' shaped gap at the corner. This gap requires sealing using Newton Corner Strip. This is a self-adhesive product that is cut and folded to wrap around the corner, allowing a 50mm lap onto the floor. Care should be taken to ensure that the lowest point of the corner is sealed correctly. This is done by overlaying an extra piece of Corner Strip.

When a floor-only application is being installed, an extra lapping piece of membrane will be required to bridge the gap before sealing.

8.7 SERVICE THROUGH  FLOORS AND WALLS   TD(JN103)

Occasionally, service pipes and other intrusions will interrupt a continuous application of the membrane. In this instance the membrane should be trimmed neatly around the service and sealed using the Waterseal Rope and oversealed with Corner Strip.

If necessary, a patch of membrane or plain DPC (plastic type) can be overlaid and sealed to the service around its perimeter using the Newton range of sealing products.

8.8 OVERLAP JOINTS     TD(JN102)

On walls, System 500 can be fixed either vertically or horizontally. System 500 is overlapped either by the flanged edge or by a minimum of three rows of studs.

8.9 GENERAL

In all cases ensure that membrane overlaps are made which provide continuous drainage behind the System. Avoid making laps that would allow water to drain onto the joints.

SECTION 9. VENTILATION

9.1 VENTILLATION

When you are dealing with confined basement areas with poor or restricted ventilation, then you may consider the risk of condensation and the introduction of mechanical extraction systems with humidistat sensors. This is imperative if a ‘Grade 4’ totally dry environment is required.

This advice applies whether or not you are using our system or any other type of system, although it should be said that our membrane range can reduce the risk of condensation when specified correctly.

SECTION 10. REPAIRS

10.1 REPAIRS TO STUDS {Vertical}

When the wrong stud is drilled in error this can easily be repaired by cleaning out the stud with a clean cloth and plugging it with sealing rope. This can then be covered with a small patch of Corner Strip or plugged with Waterseal Rope or Waterseal Tape.

The same repair can be used where a successful fixing has not been achieved due to drilling into unsound joints or structure. Simply make the repair and re-drill another stud on the same line.

10.2 REPAIRS TO MEMBRANE – SYSTEM 500 (Vertical Walls)

10.2.1 If the membrane is accidentally cut or pierced this can be repaired by cleaning the surfaces with a clean cloth and using the sealing tape, seal along the length of the cut bridging both edges and also extending beyond the two furthest points of the cut by 25mm.

10.2.2 If the membrane is ripped causing a ragged cut, this will need to be sealed using Newton Corner Strip, using the same method as above.

10.2.3 If the membrane is damaged and a hole is created, this can be bridged by using the Corner Strip providing the hole can be bridged in one piece with at least a 25mm margin around the hole.

Larger holes can be bridged by cutting a piece of System 500 to cover the hole and allowing a margin beyond the hole size.  This can then be sealed in two ways:

a) If the repair membrane sits neatly into the studs the edges can be sealed using Waterseal Tape over the repair section and lapping onto the main section. Seal around perimeter.

b) Alternatively, if the studs don't interlock, a ridge will be formed and you will need to use Corner Strip to bridge around the perimeter of the repair patch onto the main section.

10.3 REPAIRS TO FLOORS/VAULTED CEILINGS

Where damage to a floor or vaulted ceiling occurs this can be repaired using the same methods as above, but you must always use the Corner Strip to bridge or seal the damage.

It is imperative that all surfaces to be sealed are clean and dry before making the repair. In some instances it is acceptable to warm the membrane, and the Corner Strip, prior to making the seal to alleviate any surface moisture This can easily be done with a hot air gun.

10.4 GENERAL

All the above repair procedures require access to the System to achieve a proper repair. This will involve removing any finishes to gain access, although it should be said that once the finishes are in place damage should not occur. In the case of screeded floors, the screed must be removed to access the damage. This must be done with extreme caution to prevent further damage to the membrane.

Note: Where multiple damage has occurred on a section of membrane it may be advisable to cut out and replace a large section of membrane.

SECTION 11. MAINTENANCE

11.0 MAINTENANCE

Generally speaking, Newton Membrane Systems are maintenance free. However, there are a number of points you should be aware of, and indeed your client should also be made aware of in the content of your survey report/contract documents.

11.1 CHECKS PRIOR TO FINISHES

During the installation of the System, any repairs that are required should be carried out as they occur This will save time later, and reduce the risk of overlooking a potential problem.

Once the System is installed, but before the finishes are applied, the membrane should be checked for damaged areas and repaired as necessary. Also joints and seals should be checked to make sure they are adequate. Any repairs found necessary should be carried out in accordance with Section 10 of this manual.

11.2 MAINTENANCE TO MECHANICAL PUMPS              TD(JN104)

The maintenance inspection should cover the following items plus any additional requirements as required by the specific pump manufacturer.

1. Cleaning and de-scaling as required.

2. Checking for and ensuring free movement of the impeller.

3. Checking seals for leakage and renewing as required.

4. An independent test ensuring free movement.

5. Inspect discharge pipes for damage and leaks.

6. Remove any debris from base of sump that may interfere with pumping.

7. Changing the oil as specified by pump supplier.

8. Check electrical connections and fuses.

All the above should be carried out per annum as a minimum requirement or in accordance with the pump manufacturers recommendations.

The above should be carried out by a competent person or as part of a maintenance contract.

NOTE:

a) The pumps must never be activated whilst dry, as this will damage the effectiveness and life span of the unit.

b) Mechanical sump pumps are powered by electricity. It is important to maintain a constant power source to achieve maximum drainage capacity. Battery Back- up pumps are available for continuing the discharge of the sump during failure to the power supply or to the primary pump.

11.3 ALTERATIONS

Newton System 500 is a flexible high density Polyethylene membrane. Our systems, like other waterproofing systems should not be pierced in any way.

If works are proposed in the basement area that is likely to penetrate or disturb the membrane, advice must be sought from the specialist installing company or John Newton & Co Ltd, prior to such work being carried out.

Even, if minor modifications are proposed to the waterproofed areas, such as shelves, cupboards etc. The specialists should be contacted so that they can advise on the correct fixing method.


BASIC GUIDE FOR ESTIMATING MATERIAL REQUIREMENT FOR SYSTEM 500

 

A

B

C

D

PRODUCT

NEWTON 500

Walls & Floor

NEWTON 500

Walls only

Newton 500 Lath

Walls only

FLOOR

1) NEWTON 500 48 m²

Total surface area plus up stands ÷ 46

= Nº of rolls

DITTO

N/A

Floor area plus up stands ÷ 46

= Nº of rolls

1A) NEWTON 500 40 m²

Total surface area plus up stands ÷ 38

= Nº of rolls

DITTO

N/A

Floor area plus up stands ÷ 38

= Nº of rolls

2) Newton 500 Lath 40 m²

N/A

N/A

Total surface area plus up stands ÷ 38

= Nº of rolls

N/A

3) NEWTON 520 40 m²

N/A

N/A

N/A

Total surface area ÷ 38 = Nº of rolls

4) NU-SEAL PLUGS

250/200 plugs per roll of wall membrane

250/200 plugs per roll of wall membrane

500 plugs per roll of wall membrane

N/A

5)WATERSEALTAPE 22.5m

1 roll of tape for each roll of membrane

DITTO

DITTO

DITTO

6) WATERSEAL ROPE 4.75m

1 roll per 150 plugs plus linear run of stud to stud joint ÷ 4.75 = Nº of rolls

DITTO

DITTO

Quantity of rope to seal internal corner joints.

7) CORNER STRIP

1 roll per one roll of membrane will suffice for corner details and repairs

1 roll per 2 rolls of membrane will suffice for repairs

1 roll per 2 rolls of membrane will suffice for repairs

1 roll per 2 rolls of membrane will suffice for repairs.

Newton 520 requires linear run ÷ 11m  = Nº of rolls to seal to wall membrane

8) BASEDRAIN 2m LENGTHS

Linear run of wall / floor junction ÷ 2 = Nº of lengths

DITTO

DITTO

DITTO

9) MASTIC

1 tube per two rolls of membrane for repairs

DITTO

DITTO

N/A

10) TITAN PUMP SYSTEM

If natural drainage is not available

If natural drainage is not available

If natural drainage is not available

If natural drainage is not available


SECTION 12. MATERIAL SELECTION GUIDE

Depending on the specifics of the job and the available drainage, you will need to decide upon the correct mix of materials for the job. The guide below is designed to help you make that choice but is not a definitive guide. Advice can be sought from our technical office in London for specific requirements.

The choice of materials is based upon the existence and type of natural drainage and the desired wall and floor finish above the System 500. Often, it is not possible to add to the existing floor height due to height restrictions or doorways and thresholds and so the installation is to the walls only.

BASIC GUIDE FOR MATERIAL SELECTION FOR SYSTEM 500

 

WALLS

FLOOR

NOTES

FINISH REQUIRED SITE SPECIFICS

Dry-lining

Render, plaster or dabbed plasterboard

Screed

Floating wooden floor

 
Natural drainage out of lower elevation

1 or 1A clear, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 9

2, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 9

1 or 1A or 3, 5, & 6

1 or 1A, 5, & 6

Drainage channels across floor

Pumped drainage

1 or 1A clear, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 9

2, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 9

1 or 1A or 3, 5, 6, & 10

1 or 1A, 5, 6, & 10

Consider Basedrain instead of channels across floor

Pumped drainage lot of water expected

1 or 1A clear, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 9

2, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 9

1 or 1A with 8, or 3, plus 5, 6, & 10

1 or 1A with 8, 5, 6, & 10

Consider second pump or back up pump system

Stack pipe or gully

1 or 1A clear, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 9

2, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 9

1 or 1A, or 3, plus 5, 6, & 8

1 or 1A, 5, 6, & 8

Basedrain connectors required

Walls (including soffits) only – Natural drainage

1 or 1A clear, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9

2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9

N/A

N/A

Basedrain at wall / floor junction. Epoxy coating to floor

Walls only (including soffits) – pumped

1 or 1A clear, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, & 10

2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, & 10

N/A

N/A

Basedrain at wall / floor junction. Epoxy coating to floor. Connectors required. Consider secondary pump or back up pump system.

Walls only (including soffits) – Stack or Gully

1 or 1A clear, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9

2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9

N/A

N/A

Basedrain at wall / floor junction. Epoxy coating to floor. Connectors required.


CLEAR MEMBRANES

We have for some time, recognised that in some cases the walls can be of variable strength and consistency, Also, there are many regional differences in construction which present varying fixing problems.

While we would recommend taking advice on the more obscure types of structure that you may be considering fixing to, one factor is constant.

When you are fixing membranes to walls you are working "Blind". A lot of time and effort can be wasted locating a decent fixing point, and then repairing miss-drilled holes.

The problem can be dramatically reduced by specifying our clear products such as Newton 500 clear and Newton 500 Lath clear. These products being opaque allow the registered installer to see the most suitable fixing point in the structure, thereby eliminating the above problems.

Our clear membranes allow for visual inspection of the joints and seals prior to finishes being applied.

 

APPENDIX 1

Technical Drawings Summary

JN100 - NEWTON SYSTEM 500 - TYPICAL FLOOR FINISHES.

JN101 - SECTION SHOWING FIXING DETAIL

JN102 - WALL/FLOOR DETAILS ON SEALED SYSTEM

JN103 - DETAIL AROUND SERVICE PIPE

JN104 - NEWTON TITAN - SUMP AND PUMP DETAIL

JN105 - WALL/FLOOR DETAILS - NEWTON 500 WITH DPC

JN106 - NEWTON 500 - SOFFIT DETAIL

JN107 - PROPERTY BUILT INTO HILLSIDE

JN108 - NEWTON GEODRAIN - EXTERNAL WALLS ONLY

JN109 - EARTH RETAINING VAULT

JN110 - SEALING TO A MANHOLE

JN111 - WINDOW REVEAL DETAILS

JN112 - CORNER OVERTAPE USING NEWTON 520 AND NEWTON 500

JN113 - EXTERNAL CORNER DETAIL BETWEEN NEWTON 500 JUNCTIONS

JN114 - NEW INTERNAL BRICK/BLOCKWORK WALL RETAINING SEALING

JN115 - ARCHED VAULT - INSTALLATION

JN116 - BASEMENT - NEWTON BASEDRAIN WITH NEWTON 500 AND NEWTON TITAN SUMP AND PUMP

JN117 - BASEMENT - NEWBUILD - NEWTON GEODRIAN & NEWTON BASEDRAIN - BELT AND BRACES

 

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