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Essential Protection: Shields basements, foundations, and underground structures from water ingress in Kenya’s rainy seasons.
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Methods Offered: External membranes, internal coatings, drainage systems, and crack injections for long-term durability.
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Key Benefits: Prevents structural damage, mold growth, and costly repairs; boosts property value in flood-prone areas.
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Coverage: Nairobi, Kiambu, and nationwide, tailored to local soil and high water tables.
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Expert Provider: Bestcare Facilities Management delivers professional, warranted solutions.
Below-grade waterproofing protects underground building elements like basements and foundations from soil moisture and groundwater. In Nairobi and Kenya, where black cotton soils expand with rain and urban flooding is common, this service is critical for new constructions and retrofits. Bestcare Facilities Management specializes in these solutions, ensuring dry, stable structures amid Kenya’s variable climate.
Understanding Below-Grade Waterproofing
Below-grade areas face hydrostatic pressure from rising groundwater, especially during Nairobi’s long rains (March-May, October-December). Without proper waterproofing, water seeps through cracks, causing efflorescence, spalling concrete, and rebar corrosion. This leads to structural failure, with repair costs escalating 5-10 times if ignored. Bestcare uses crystalline admixtures that grow waterproof crystals in pores, offering permanent internal barriers.
Common Challenges in Kenya
Nairobi’s volcanic soils retain water, while Kiambu’s red loams drain poorly, amplifying risks in basements of high-rises like Westlands towers. Poor site drainage and shallow water tables in areas like Ngara exacerbate leaks. Urban development booms—over 100,000 units built yearly—heighten demand, but substandard work causes 30% of building defects. Bestcare addresses this with site-specific assessments, complying with Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) guidelines.
Solutions Provided by Bestcare
External Waterproofing
Dimpled membranes and bituminous felts applied pre-concrete pour divert water. Ideal for new foundations in flood-vulnerable zones like Eastlands. Drainage boards channel water to perimeter pipes, reducing pressure.
Internal Waterproofing
For existing structures, epoxy injections seal cracks, while polyurethane coatings block dampness from the negative side. Sump pumps with alarms handle high-water scenarios in commercial basements.
Hybrid Systems
Combining cementitious slurries with drainage mats suits retrofits in older Nairobi buildings. Bestcare integrates these with French drains for comprehensive protection.
Cost Estimates Table
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (KSh) | Scope/Details |
|---|---|---|
| Basement Waterproofing | 50,000 – 120,000 | Per 100 sqm; includes coatings and drainage |
| Foundation Waterproofing | 70,000 – 160,000 | External membranes for slabs/walls |
| Crack Injection | 20,000 – 50,000 | Per linear meter; epoxy/polyurethane |
| Drainage Systems | 30,000 – 80,000 | Perimeter pipes and sump pumps |
| Full Below-Grade Retrofit | 150,000 – 400,000+ | Complete basement overhaul, 200+ sqm |
Costs vary by site access, soil type, and materials; free quotes from Bestcare ensure accuracy.
Why Choose Bestcare Facilities Management
With years in facilities management, Bestcare employs NCA-registered technicians using Sika and BASF products proven in Kenyan conditions. Warranties up to 10 years cover labor and materials, unlike fly-by-night firms. Their portfolio includes malls in Uhuru Highway and residences in Lavington, delivering 99% leak-free results.
Application Process
Site visits start with moisture mapping using infrared cameras. Bestcare then designs systems, procures materials, and executes in phases: excavation (if needed), priming, membrane application, and testing via flood simulation. Projects complete in 3-14 days, minimizing disruption. Post-service, annual inspections maintain efficacy.
Maintenance Tips
Clear gutters quarterly to prevent overflow. Monitor for efflorescence—early signs of failure. In high-risk areas, install hygrometers in basements. Bestcare offers maintenance contracts at KSh 10,000 annually.
Below-grade waterproofing is non-negotiable for Kenya’s growing skyline, preventing billions in annual flood damage. Bestcare Facilities Management leads with innovative, cost-effective services tailored for Nairobi’s urban challenges and Kenya-wide needs. Invest today for a dry tomorrow.
Contact Information
Bestcare Facilities Management
Phone: +254 709004600
Address: Mpaka Plaza, Westlands, Nairobi
Email: info@bestcareservices.co.ke
Website: www.bestcareservices.co.ke
