ELEVATOR PIT WATERPROFING/PROTECTION

Problem

Elevator Pits are typically the lowest point in a structure and are subjected to high levels of hydrostatic pressure that can cause leaks through defects such as cracks, joints, penetrations, and the substrate itself.

Elevator waterproofing is traditionally done when the structure is built with a combination of a drainage system outside along with a waterproof membrane. Although effective, drain tile systems need a place to drain to, and most current building codes PROHIBIT the use of sump pumps inside of elevator pits. Membranes, although somewhat effective against lateral pressure against surfaces, cannot be submerged within the water table. 

At the water table rises,  membrane systems and inoperable drain tiles fail and this leads to a buildup of water pressure around the pit. A leaking elevator pit can lead to the following:

• Electrical repairs
• Mechanical repairs
• Mold
• Red tag violation from the State
• Costly equipment repairs
• Elevator downtime
• Lack of access for handicap person's

"Belts and Suspenders"

There are solutions on the market that do have some success, but after 45 years in business, RC Waterproofing does not rely on a single method to solve leaking elevator pits. Unlike bentonite grouting or epoxy/urethane injections, which can fail due to fluctuating water tables and the inability to confirm 100% of success, RC Waterproofing utilizes a "Belts and Suspenders" approach. 

• Proprietary crystalline integral waterproofing using XYPEX waterproofing materials
• Internal grouting of block walls with XYPEX treated material
• Injection of polyurethane and/or epoxy 
• Repair of defective joints, penetrations, and defects

Combining multiple methods creates an engineered repair to "overlap" each others strengths/weaknesses to provide permanent protection for the leaking elevator pit.