OVERVIEW

Forming part of a major potable water infrastructure scheme, this project involved the construction of a large reinforced concrete reservoir built to strict durability and water containment standards.
Due to the critical nature of potable water infrastructure, all waterproofing materials were required to meet stringent regulatory approvals, including DWI Regulation 31.
SMR Projects supported the scheme through the supply and technical oversight of the Xypex waterproofing system, working closely with Cidon Construction and the wider project team.

PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION

As a below-ground reinforced concrete structure for potable water storage, the reservoir required:

•  Long-term integral waterproofing performance
•  Protection against water ingress at construction joints
• A crystalline waterproofing system suitable for potable water
• Compliance with DWI Regulation 31
• Ongoing technical inspection and quality assurance

Given the scale and complexity of the structure, maintaining waterproofing continuity—particularly at construction and movement joints—was essential. Close coordination with Cidon Construction ensured these requirements were fully integrated into the build.

WATERPROOFING STRATEGY

Xypex Admix C-Series was incorporated into the concrete mix to provide integral waterproofing throughout the structure.
The crystalline technology reacts with moisture and unhydrated cement particles to form insoluble crystals, blocking capillary tracts and microcracks.
This delivered:

• Waterproofing throughout the concrete matrix
• Long-term resistance to water penetration
• Increased structural durability
• Self-healing of minor shrinkage cracks
• Suitability for potable water applications

JOINT WATERPROOFING

• Xypex Concentrate was applied at construction joints to reinforce waterproofing at critical interfaces.
  Application:
• Installed at designated joints in accordance with specifications
• Joint preparation and detailing carefully monitored
• Fully compliant with manufacturer guidance and DWI Regulation 31
• This ensured continuity of waterproofing across vulnerable areas.

ROLE OF SMR PROJECTS

SMR Projects supplied the system and provided ongoing technical support throughout construction.
Regular site inspections were carried out, including visits to County Durham, to monitor joint preparation, application quality, and installation standards.

Support included:

• Technical guidance on detailing
• On-site inspections during construction
• Assistance to installation teams and engineers
• Quality assurance for joint waterproofing
• Ongoing coordination with the project team

This collaborative approach helped maintain high standards, particularly at critical joint locations.

OUTCOME

The completed reservoir provides a durable, waterproof concrete solution for long-term potable water storage.

The combined system delivered:

• Integral waterproofing throughout the structure
• Enhanced protection at construction joints
• Compliance with regulatory requirements
• Long-term durability and performance assurance

CONCLUSION

This scheme demonstrates the effectiveness of crystalline waterproofing in large-scapotable water infrastructure.
By combining integral waterproofing with detailed joint protection—and through strong collaboration between contractor, engineers, and SMR Projects—the team delivered a high-performance, durable concrete structure.