Underground Container House Dampproofing

Dampproofing for underground container houses requires a comprehensive approach covering material selection, structural waterproofing, environmental control, and auxiliary measures. The specific methods are as follows:

I. Material Selection and Substrate Treatment

1. Application of Dampproof Panels
   Prioritize materials with good dampproofing properties, such as waterproof gypsum board, diatomaceous earth plaster, and vitrified tiles. Avoid using ordinary particleboard or medium-density fiberboard. Dampproof panels reduce moisture absorption by adding dampproofing agents or modified adhesives, but note that they are only suitable for high-humidity air environments and not for prolonged submersion in water.

2. Key Points in Substrate Treatment
   Structural self-dampproofing is fundamental, with concrete requiring an impermeability grade of P6 or P8. A dampproof layer should be applied to the external water-facing side, using either roll materials or coatings, ensuring continuity at the junctions of the floor slab, side walls, and roof slab. Internal and external corners should be rounded or formed into 45° bevels (radius ≥ 50mm) to prevent stress concentration and cracking.

II. Structural Waterproofing and Construction Specifications

1. Waterproofing Construction Steps

   • Chiseling and Leveling: Create V-shaped grooves along wall-floor junctions, clean them, and then round them off with polymer mortar.
   • Additional Layer Treatment: Apply an additional layer 300-500mm wide at joints, corners, and other leakage-prone areas, ensuring full adhesion without air bubbles for both roll materials and coatings.
   • Main Dampproof Layer: Apply polyurethane coating in layers of 0.5-0.8mm each, controlling the total thickness to 1.5-2.0mm. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next.

2. Material Selection Based on Substrate Conditions
   Choose waterproofing materials according to substrate moisture levels. For example, cement-based capillary crystalline materials require a damp substrate, while JS flexible coatings need a dry base. K11 rigid type is suitable for humid environments, but flexible type should be used at corners prone to deformation.

III. Environmental Control and Ventilation Management

1. Ventilation Optimization
   Install exhaust fans or dehumidifiers to promote air circulation. Close windows and doors during the rainy season, opening them briefly at midday for ventilation when temperatures are high. If possible, install skylights to enhance natural ventilation.

2. Temperature and Humidity Regulation

   • Underfloor Heating or Air Conditioning: Reduce condensation by raising floor temperature or lowering air temperature.
   • Dehumidifiers: Select models with appropriate power ratings. High-power models can be connected to drainage pipes to avoid frequent emptying of the water collection tank.

IV. Auxiliary Measures and Routine Maintenance

1. Use of Desiccants
   Place activated carbon, quicklime, or calcium chloride desiccants in corners, replacing them regularly (e.g., monthly). Container-specific desiccants (e.g., 1000g packs) can be hung on walls for enhanced local moisture absorption.

2. Crack and Aging Treatment
   Regularly inspect walls and floors for cracks, removing aged areas and reapplying sealant. Avoid placing plants in basements to reduce water vapor release.

3. Laying of Dampproof Mats
   Lay dampproof mats or foam boards on the floor to block rising ground moisture. For storage purposes, place hard cardboard or plastic film under shelves.