The Problem
Built in the early 2000s, the Vasundhara Towers complex comprises three residential towers of 32 storeys each, with a shared basement and podium. By 2023, residents reported increasing basement seepage after each monsoon, structural cracks visible on multiple floors, and progressive facade deterioration.
The Resident Welfare Association engaged R.K. Buildcare for a comprehensive assessment and rehabilitation program. Our brief: diagnose root causes across all three buildings, specify lasting repair solutions, and execute the work without disrupting the 600+ resident occupancy.
How We Approached It
We began with a six-week structural and waterproofing assessment across all three towers. The basement seepage was traced to failed crystalline waterproofing at the original construction; the structural cracks were largely cosmetic but several indicated live movement requiring carbon fiber wrap intervention. The facade deterioration was driven by Delhi NCR's pollution exposure and inadequate prior maintenance.
The execution program was staged over 24 months in three phases — basement first, then structural floors (one tower at a time to maintain occupancy), then facade. Daily site reports kept the RWA informed; weekly walkthroughs included resident representatives.
Specification
- Crystalline waterproofing: Penetron Admix for basement (negative-side) and Penetron topical application for podium deck
- Structural strengthening: Mapei Carboplate E170 carbon fiber laminate on identified beams; Carboplate wrapping on four columns with movement monitoring
- Concrete repair: Mapei Mapegrout T60 polymer-modified mortar for spalled concrete; Fosroc Nitobond EP bonding agent
- Facade rehabilitation: Pressure washing, crack injection with Fosroc Nitofill LV, anti-carbonation coating (Fosroc Dekguard S)
- Joint sealing: Sikaflex PRO-2HP polyurethane sealant on all expansion joints
The Result
The basement has now been through two complete monsoons post-completion with zero measurable seepage. Structural monitoring shows no progressive movement on the wrapped elements. The facade coating has held up well under NCR's pollution exposure, and the RWA reports uniform satisfaction from residents.
We've subsequently been engaged on a five-year maintenance contract for the complex, including annual waterproofing inspections and a rolling facade maintenance program.
Planning a similar project?
If you're facing basement seepage, structural movement, or facade deterioration on a residential or commercial complex, we'd be glad to scope an assessment. Initial site visits are complimentary and confidential.
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