When a strata committee or building manager is searching for what ATCO Projects provides in strata waterproofing services, they want clarity, reliability and long-term protection. ATCO Projects offers a suite of waterproofing solutions tailored for strata buildings, covering critical areas such as balconies, basements, roofs, bathrooms and external walls. In this article we will walk through their approach, the benefits for strata properties, and practical tips on selecting and maintaining waterproofing systems.
Why Strata Waterproofing Matters
Water ingress is one of the most destructive forces for building structures. Over time, moisture can cause concrete to crack, steel reinforcements to rust, interior finishes to deteriorate, and mould or damp problems in occupied units. Strata buildings are especially vulnerable because multiple lots share common structural elements and waterproofing failure in one zone may affect many owners.
Proper waterproofing is not a cosmetic extra, it is essential for:
- Preserving structural integrity
- Preventing costly repairs
- Protecting resident health by avoiding mould and damp
- Maintaining property values
That is why strata schemes must choose a provider that knows the specific demands of multi-unit buildings, understands common property responsibilities, and knows how to work with committees, residents and trades.
The Strata Waterproofing Services That ATCO Projects Delivers
From inspection and design through to implementation and maintenance, here is a breakdown of what ATCO Projects provides in strata waterproofing services and what makes their offering stand out.
1. Site Inspection & Diagnostic Assessment
Before any work starts, ATCO Projects conducts a detailed inspection of the strata building. They assess:
- Existing waterproofing membranes and their condition
- Drainage systems (gutters, downpipes, scuppers)
- Roofs, terraces, and balconies for ponding or slope problems
- Junctions between walls, parapets and penetrations
- Basements, retaining walls and below-ground structures
- Internal wet areas (bathrooms, laundries) for leaks or failures
This diagnostic stage is vital. It helps to understand the root cause of water problems rather than only treating symptoms. Based on this assessment, ATCO can design a waterproofing plan customised for the building.
2. Design & Specification
One of ATCO Projects’ strengths is in designing waterproofing systems that align with the building’s architecture, load constraints and exposure. They specify appropriate membranes, substrates, sealants, and flashings. For strata schemes, this design must also consider access, timeframes and impact on occupants.
This design phase often includes:
- Detailing junctions, edges, and penetrations
- Choosing membrane types (liquid, sheet, bituminous, etc.)
- Ensuring compatibility with finishes (tiles, pavers, paving systems)
- Planning drainage and overflow systems
- Testing and quality assurance requirements
3. Membrane & System Installation
Having a robust design is only half the battle, correct installation is equally crucial. ATCO Projects provides professional application of waterproofing systems in strata developments. Their work includes:
- Priming and surface preparation to ensure adhesion
- Installation of the selected waterproofing membrane(s)
- Reinforcement at corners, upstands, and penetrations
- Flashing and joint sealing
- Interface work at doors, windows and balustrades
- Coordination with tiling or paving trades if needed
They manage workmanship quality and ensure that all components are installed to reduce risk of failure.
4. Waterproofing for Specific Zones
ATCO Projects applies their waterproofing expertise to critical zones common in strata settings:
- Balconies and terraces: These are frequent leak points. ATCO provides waterproofing systems that can handle foot traffic, drainage, and exposure.
- Bathrooms and laundries: Internal wet areas need waterproofing beneath finishes to prevent leaks to lower levels.
- Roof decks: Exposed roofs often face UV, thermal expansion, ponding water, their systems handle those stresses.
- Basements and substructures: Below-ground waterproofing needs to resist hydrostatic pressure and ensure dry space.
- External walls and facades: They also address water penetration through façades, especially at junctions or defective elements.
5. Testing & Quality Assurance
A waterproofing system is only as good as its testing and monitoring. ATCO Projects implements rigorous quality assurance, including:
- Flood testing (wetting a surface to check for leakage)
- Visual inspections under lighting
- Use of inspection reports with photographs
- Checklists for every zone and step
- Sign-off from supervisors before handing to client
This helps catch defects early and ensures compliance with warranties and industry standards.
6. Maintenance & Repair Works
After installation, upkeep is necessary to extend the life of waterproofing. ATCO Projects offers maintenance and repair services, such as:
- Inspecting and clearing drainage lines
- Recoating or resealing expansion joints
- Repairing local damage or penetrations
- Periodic condition audits
- Advice on care and use of balcony surfaces or pavers
Strata committees and owners benefit from this ongoing support to maintain performance over time.
The Benefits for Strata Schemes
When you engage a provider like ATCO Projects for waterproofing in a strata setting, you get several advantages:
- One point of accountability: A single contractor for design, application and maintenance reduces coordination headaches.
- Tailored solutions: Systems are matched to the building, climate and use, not just “off the shelf.”
- Reduced risk: With proper testing and quality control, the risk of leaks and rework is lower.
- Longer lifespan: Regular maintenance extends the life of waterproofing systems.
- Better value for money: Avoiding major repairs later is often more cost-efficient than cheap fixes now.
- Warranty support: Proper documentation and installation can support warranty claims.
Tips for Strata Managers and Committees Choosing Waterproofing Services
If you’re on a strata committee or manage a building, here are practical tips when evaluating waterproofing providers:
- Check track record in strata work
Ask for case studies in multi-unit buildings, not just single-house jobs. - Review their testing and QA process
A company should be able to explain how they test and document waterproofing integrity. - Ensure clear scope and exclusions
Understand what areas are included, what finishes will be replaced, and what’s excluded (e.g. paving work, finishes). - Vendor transparency
Materials, brands, warranties and expected life should be clear. - Access and disruption planning
In strata environments, work must be staged to minimise disruption to residents. - Post-installation maintenance plan
A system without a proper maintenance plan will break down prematurely. - Warranty and insurance coverage
Confirm what warranties exist and whether the contractor has liability cover. - Communication and reporting
Regular reports, photography and progress updates help the committee remain informed.
A Sample Scenario: Balcony Waterproofing in a Mid-Rise Strata
Imagine a mid-rise strata building where residents report damp patches on the ceilings of lower units after heavy rain. The committee hires ATCO Projects for what ATCO Projects provides in strata waterproofing services.
- First, ATCO inspects all balconies, noting cracks, ponding, and failed membranes.
- They design a system using a high performance liquid applied membrane plus trafficable protection.
- During installation, they apply the membrane, reinforce joints, and test for leaks.
- After completion, they perform flood tests and provide a report.
- They also schedule regular inspections every 12 months.
In this case, the problem was properly diagnosed and fixed. The lower units stop leaking, and the committee has documentation and systems in place for future upkeep.
Final Thought
When strata buildings face waterproofing challenges, it is not enough to patch leaks. They need a provider who understands what ATCO Projects provides in strata waterproofing services, from assessment and design to installation, testing and maintenance. With a experienced partner, strata committees can protect property value, prevent structural damage, and ensure a dry and safe environment for residents.
If you manage a strata scheme and are exploring waterproofing options, consider contacting ATCO Projects to discuss your building’s needs and get a tailored proposal.