Izmir matters particularly for waterproofing, with the alluvial plains of the Aegean region and dense construction along the bay. In settlements around the Gediz plain a high groundwater table creates a constant risk of damp and pressure at basement level. Our team provides foundation drainage, basement waterproofing and roof insulation across Izmir, particularly in Karsiyaka, Bornova, Konak, Buca, Cigli, Bayrakli and Alsancak.
High summer humidity along the coast and concentrated winter rainfall mean roof and terrace insulation has to be done with quality materials.
Izmir suffered heavy damage in the October 2020 earthquake, particularly in Bayrakli, because of soil liquefaction. That showed once again that on alluvial ground, foundation waterproofing and ground stabilisation have to be addressed together. Near the Gediz and Kucuk Menderes plains a high groundwater table puts constant moisture pressure on basements and foundations.
In districts close to the bay our team also takes account of the corrosive effect of salt laden sea air on building materials, and specifies membrane and coating systems resistant to both moisture and salt on Izmir projects.
The three situations we meet most often in İzmir
Saline conditions in coastal areas. Where sea air reaches the building, moisture and salt act together. Once salt penetrates concrete it accelerates corrosion of the reinforcement. Here waterproofing is not only about staying dry, it is about protecting the steel.
Membrane fatigue under high summer temperatures. On sun exposed terraces and roofs the surface temperature rises considerably in summer. Systems with high temperature resistance and a UV resistant surface should be chosen, otherwise the membrane softens and loses its structure over time.
Water table in the plain districts. In districts built on the alluvial plain the water table lies close to the surface. Drainage is an inseparable part of waterproofing for basements and below ground spaces in these areas.
What we look at during the survey
Distance to the sea and signs of salt attack, marks of corrosion or spalling in the concrete, sun exposure of the roof and terrace and the age of the existing membrane, water table level in the plain districts, surface falls around the building and the drainage arrangement.