In today’s construction environment, documentation and accountability matter as much as physical performance.
When waterproofing or gas protection fails, the consequences extend far beyond damp walls or programme delays. They create structural risk, legal exposure, and reputational damage for designers, contractors, and engineers alike.
That’s why, at Premcrete, certainty starts long before a membrane reaches a site.
Every waterproofing membrane for concrete, waterproofing additive for cement and gas protection system we manufacture undergoes a comprehensive, accredited testing journey, supported by UKAS, BBA, BDA (Kiwa), and the requirements of the Building Safety Act.
But rigorous testing is only part of the story. What truly sets Premcrete apart is our commitment to being a single-source UK manufacturer, providing one chain of custody, one set of certified data, one warranty, and complete traceability from concept to installation.
From Concept to Certified System
1. Listening to the market: Designed around real-world needs
Our development process starts with the people who rely on our systems every day: installers, designers, and site engineers.
We ask:
- What makes installation easier?
- What are you missing?
- What would make your project run smoother?
We listen, we learn, and we build solutions that remove complexity and reduce risk.
This practical insight shapes the product and its certification pathway from the outset.
2. Certification and testing planning
For each new system, we work with approval bodies such as BBA and BDA (Kiwa) to create a project-specific test plan.
This plan defines every performance requirement, from hydrostatic watertightness and vapour control to gas permeation, joint strength, long-term durability, and more. Consequently, we can ensure the end product is ready for the environments where it will be used.
3. Independent, accredited testing: Verified performance through UKAS-accredited labs
All testing is carried out through UKAS-accredited laboratories across the UK, using recognised European (EN) and International (ISO) standards.
This ensures our performance methods reflect accuracy and repeatability, standing up to scrutiny throughout the industry.
4. Factory and site audits for full traceability
Certification bodies also review our production processes and may witness site installations.
This guarantees that what is manufactured, what is tested, and what is installed all match, giving clients confidence in both the product and the processes behind it.
5. Continuous improvement, built into every system
Many of our testing programmes span 12–18 months, and, during this period, we refine, adjust, and enhance materials, where needed.
For Premcrete, this isn’t just part of the process; it’s all part of our commitment to delivering systems that consistently outperform minimum standards, achieving the highest quality possible.
How our Core Tests are carried out
Hydrostatic watertightness (water penetration)
A sample of a waterproofing membrane for concrete is clamped in a circular test cell and pressurised from beneath with water, typically at 0.6 bar (6m head of water) for 24 hours.
The requirement is simple: no water can pass through. If no water appears to penetrate the surface or the seams, the membrane passes the test.
This demonstrates below-ground performance, even under extreme conditions.
Water Vapour transmission (WVT)
Using a practice called the ‘cup method’, we test our membranes by sealing a container of either water (wet cup) or desiccant (dry cup). The cup is then weighed periodically to measure any vapour transfer.
The results are expressed as WVTR (g·m⁻²·day⁻¹) and μ (vapour resistance), showing how effectively the membrane controls vapour diffusion and prevents condensation within the structure.
Ground-gas & VOC permeation
Membranes are sealed between two chambers. One is filled with a pressurised gas, like methane or carbon dioxide, whilst the other is monitored for diffusion. During VOC testing, the membrane may be exposed to hydrocarbon vapours or immersed in liquids to simulate contamination.
Gas transmission rate (GTR) and permeability coefficients are recorded, demonstrating the membrane’s protective quality and suitability for brownfield and contaminated sites.
Beyond the Core Tests: Proving the Whole System
To guarantee long-term reliability on demanding sites, we also test for:
- Adhesion and bond testing: Measuring pull-off strength to concrete and joints
- Joint integrity: Lap-shear, peel, and watertight seam testing
- Puncture and impact resistance: Simulating sharp aggregates or rebar contact
- Tear and nail-shank resistance: Resisting damage during installation
- Coefficient of friction (CoF): Important for vertical or sloping applications
- Abrasion resistance and durability: Handling and backfill wear
- Thermal stability, UV resistance, and ageing tests
- Chemical and hydrocarbon resistance
- Fire classification: Declared on our DoPs
A system is only as strong as its weakest point, so we validate each and every aspect. This way, we can ensure that when multiple forces work together, the whole assembly remains watertight, gas-tight, and, most importantly, safe.
The Declaration of Performance: Clear, Accessible Proof
Every certified Premcrete product is supported by a Declaration of Performance (DoP). This is the legal document behind CE/UKCA marking. It is a formal declaration of how the product performs against its essential characteristics, using verified lab results.
The DoP provides complete visibility of:
- Unique DoP number and product identification
- Manufacturer details and contact information
- Intended use and product scope
- Declared performance for each essential characteristic
- Reference to the applicable Harmonised Standard or European Assessment Document (EAD)
- Details of the notified body (if relevant)
- Name and signature of the authorised manufacturer representative
- Issue date and version tracking
By issuing the DoP, we take full responsibility for the declared performance of the product, providing our clients with transparency and traceability. You can rest assured that you can trace the origin, evidence, and performance of our systems, all through one single document.
Why Single-Source UK System Manufacturing Matters
Not all suppliers manufacture their own systems.
Many assemble waterproofing membranes for concrete and waterproofing additives for cement from multiple overseas sources, each with different certificates, testing methods and sometimes conflicting national approvals.
This can lead to:
- Mixed documentation and incompatible certificates
- Gaps in liability when different manufacturers are involved
- Delays in warranty or NHBC/ABC approval due to unclear provenance
- Inconsistent quality between production batches or countries
Premcrete takes a different approach.
We design, produce, and test all key components of our waterproofing and gas-protection systems in-house, in the UK. This means that, with Premcrete, there’s only one chain of custody, one set of test data, one DoP and one warranty.
We also go that extra mile by investing in additional testing. This is ideal for:
- Warranty providers seeking extra reassurance beyond standard certification
- Structural engineers who request specific test data (e.g., bespoke adhesion or gas-rate verification)
- Site teams dealing with unique project conditions (e.g., contaminated ground, unusual substrates, or mixed construction sequences)
Our clients never have to compromise between innovation and compliance.
The Benefits for your Project
One manufacturer, one certification, one system
By choosing one manufacturer you can rely on, our clients experience simplified approvals and reduced ambiguity.
Assured compliance
All performance claims are supported by accredited testing and formal DoPs.
Reduced project risk
No mixed-source components or uncertain interfaces.
Faster warranty acceptance
Clear, traceable documentation aligned with warranty bodies like NHBC, ABC and LABC requirements.
Proven, tested innovation
From lightweight detailing to self-healing membranes, all of our innovations are tested. Our product performance is never assumed.
A collaborative, long-term partnership
Our R&D team works directly with our clients and engineers to support bespoke solutions or verify project-specific requirements.
Built on Integrity and Proven Performance
Premcrete’s testing and certification process ensures that every product we supply performs exactly as declared, not just on day one, but for the life of the structure.
When you choose a single-source, fully-certified UK system, you gain clarity, compliance, and peace of mind from the first pour of concrete to the final sign-off.
Book a 15 to 30-minute design workshop with one of our qualified CSSW waterproofing experts to begin your partnership with Premcrete and kickstart your project in the right way.
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