Construction of a reservoir: aspects not to be underestimated in waterproofing

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Emma Potter

Construction of a reservoir: construction site needs

What could they be? specific construction site needs for the creation of water basins or mountain pools in mountain environments:

  • site study and environmental assessments: before starting work, it is necessary to carry out a careful study of the site, including geological and hydrogeological investigations. It is important to evaluate the environmental impact of the project and ensure that the construction does not damage the local ecosystem;
  • accessibility of the construction site: Alpine areas can be difficult to reach, especially with heavy vehicles and building materials. As regards waterproofing, it may be necessary to work with tailor-made technologies such as large prefabricated sheets with cold joints, therefore without the use of electrical instruments or machinery;
  • suitable materials and construction techniques: the materials used must be resistant to the extreme atmospheric conditions typical of high mountains. Furthermore, construction techniques must adapt to soil conditions and the presence of water;
  • structural stability and waterproofing: Construction must ensure long-term structural stability, using effective waterproofing methods to prevent leaks and ensure the durability of the basin. GeoGard EPDM is a very resistant and durable synthetic material that is often used to protect surfaces such as tanks, lakes, bio-pools and mountain pools;
  • minimization of environmental impact: during construction, it is important to limit the environmental impact as much as possible. This may include prohibiting the use of open flame or electricity and minimizing noise, odor, dust;
  • post-construction maintenance and monitoring: After construction, it is crucial to implement a maintenance and monitoring plan to ensure that the reservoir functions as intended and does not cause environmental problems. The waterproof system adopted must therefore guarantee resistance and durability, as well as easy repairability.

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Why use a GeoGard EPDM membrane?

What are the advantages of the GeoGard EPDM membrane to ensure that the construction of reservoirs or mountain pastures is sustainable, effective and safe, both during construction and in the long term?

  • Durability: EPDM is known for its resistance to weathering, UV rays and deformation, ensuring long life without significant deterioration.
  • Flexibility: the membrane is highly flexible, which makes it ideal for adapting to the irregular shapes of mountain pools without creating weak points or areas of vulnerability.
  • Easy installation: compared to other waterproofing options, GeoGard EPDM can be relatively easy to install, especially if it is used in prefabricated sheets that can be cut and adapted to the desired size, the joint between sheets overlaps is made completely cold, without machinery or equipment particular.
  • Low maintenance: Once installed correctly, it requires very little maintenance over time, saving you time and money in the long run.
  • Environmental compatibility: EPDM is considered an ecological material as it is free of toxic or environmentally harmful substances.

The membrane must have notable resistance to puncturing (EN ISO 12236), high friction angle (27.5° with the ground), high elastic elongation and tensile strength (EN 12311-2).

The quality of cold junctions made on site can be effectively tested using destructive and non-destructive methods (visual inspection, vacuum bell, air lance, etc.).

These steps are crucial to ensuring that the construction of reservoirs or mountain pools is sustainable, effective and safe, both during construction and in the long term.

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