Diaphragm Wall Construction: Know the Benefits, Cost & More

When it comes to building a home, most people prioritise above-ground structures. However, a strong foundation below the surface is crucial for certain projects, particularly those in urban areas or with complex basements. This is where Diaphragm wall construction is required. These waterproof concrete walls are built directly into the ground, offering support and preventing water leakage. Unlike traditional excavation processes, diaphragm walls are constructed in stages to reduce disruption and provide safety to workers and your property. 

What is a Diaphragm wall construction?

A Diaphragm wall is a waterproof concrete wall built underground to assist with deep excavations. It is created in sections to retain soil and prevent water leakage during basement excavations. This strong wall is an excellent method to create a dry and secure basement you have always wanted for that additional living space. They are ideal for basements, tunnels, and other underground construction projects.

Why choose Diaphragm wall construction for your home?

Diaphragm wall construction can be the perfect outcome for your home basement project as it comes with several benefits:

Safety first

Traditional excavation processes can be tricky and risky. However, Diaphragm walls are constructed in stages, strengthening the surrounding ground to stop cave-ins and ensuring that the workers and your property are safe throughout the process.

Waterproofing solved

Diaphragm walls solve the concerns for water leakage or additional waterproofing layers. These walks are constructed to be watertight, creating a dry and functional basement area.

Design flexibility

Diaphragm walls can be built to a variety of depths, enabling you to alter the size of your basement to match your requirements. They can even be bent which unlocks possibilities for imaginative and fashionable designs.

Strong foundation

Diaphragm walls can handle a lot of strain from surrounding soil as they are strong. This makes your basement foundation safe and secure and will last for many years.

Noise and vibration control

Unlike other excavation methods, Diaphragm wall construction produces minimum noise and vibration, making it perfect for the urban atmosphere.

Also Read: Buying a new home, here's how to check for seepage in the walls and roof

How is a Diaphragm wall built?

Constructing a diaphragm wall is like building an underground waterproof box for your basement that is both safe and secure. The construction process may sound a bit complicated, but here is the simplified breakdown for homeowners:

Dig deep

To begin with, a trench is dug down to the intended depth of your basement. Steel beams or sheet piles might be needed to support the trench walls temporarily.

Slurry time

In the next step, the trench is filled with a special slurry, which is a mixture of water and clay or bentonite. This slurry is used to stabilise the trench walls and prevent groundwater from penetrating in.

Panel by panel

Precast concrete panels are dropped into the slurry-filled trench. To create a solid and continuous wall, these panels are made with grooves or interlocking joints.

Cleaning up

After completing a section of the wall, the slurry must be removed carefully. Pumping or filtering methods are required to complete the process.

Reinforcement ready & concrete poured

Steel reinforcement bars are inserted in the grooves or voids of the concrete panels. After that, the area behind the space is filled in with concrete to reduce the gaps and build a strong wall.

Repeat and connect

Digging, adding slurry, installing panels, and pouring concrete are all steps that need to be repeated until the entire diaphragm wall is constructed surrounding your basement.

Also Read: Skirting in Construction: Guide to Style Your Home from Floor to Wall

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Things to consider when choosing Diaphragm walls for your home

Diaphragm wall construction offers the perfect solution for building a basement. Before finalising it, homeowners should consider the following:

Site conditions

Diaphragm walls work well with the urban atmosphere or areas with limited space. However, underground utilities, rock formations, or a high water table can make the construction process complex and lead to increased costs. So, you must consult a geotechnical engineer for the assessment of your site and ask all the possible questions to simplify the process.

Cost

The cost of a Diaphragm wall is higher as compared to other conventional methods. A wide range of factors such as soil conditions, excavation depth, and wall size affect the pricing. Also, request quotes from professional contractors with expertise in Diaphragm wall construction.

Noise and vibration

There might be some noise and vibration during Diaphragm wall construction, but it will be negligible compared to other traditional approaches. It is advised to discuss noise reduction strategies with the contractor.

Access and utility lines

Access or utility lines in your area might need to be temporarily adjusted to construct a solid diaphragm wall. The contractor is responsible for keeping you informed and ensuring minimum disturbance.

Safety

Diaphragm wall construction is a complicated procedure, so ensure that the contractor focuses on the safety of the workers and surrounding structures.

Benefit of Diaphragm walls for homeowners

If you want to build a safe, dry, and personalised basement solution, Diaphragm walls could be the perfect solution. Here is the breakdown of the key benefits for homeowners:

Deep basement bliss

Diaphragm walls create a spacious basement for a home gym, entertainment room, or additional storage. They offer the essential support and stability required for these large excavations, allowing you to optimise your below-ground living space.

Solve waterproofing concern

Basement leaks are one of the biggest nightmares for the homeowner. Thus, Diaphragm walls work as a watertight barrier and prevent groundwater from sipping in. It builds a dry and functional basement that is free from moisture issues.

Stable surroundings

Diaphragm wall construction prevents surrounding soil from collapsing by creating a safe and secure excavation zone. This enhances the security of the workers and your existing property.

Solid foundation

A Diaphragm wall offers peace of mind by ensuring that your basement is built on a strong foundation and has outstanding waterproofing qualities. It unlocks the possibility of enjoying your extra living space without worrying about water leakage or structural stability.

Diaphragm wall construction cost

Diaphragm walls offer a perfect solution for basements but at a certain price. The price range depends on various factors including wall depth, soil conditions and project size. While the upfront cost might be high, Diaphragm walls unlock multiple benefits such as integrated waterproofing and a solid foundation. Here is the breakdown of estimated prices of different types of Diaphragm walls:

In conclusion, Diaphragm walls can turn your basement dreams into reality. They provide a safe and secure excavation option and reduce concerns about cave-ins or waterproofing. These versatile walls can be constructed and bent to various depths, creating spacious, functional and fashionable basements. While the upfront cost might be high compared to the conventional approaches, the benefits of a solid waterproof foundation, stable surroundings and minimum disruptions. These factors make diaphragm walls a perfect choice for homeowners looking for a luxurious basement solution.