Damp Proof Membrane (DPM) comes in the form of heavy duty polythene sheeting. This black polythene is 1000g/250mu thick meaning that it is strong, puncture resistant and durable, keeping out dampness and moisture from foundations and walls of houses and structures. The DPM has been approved by the British Builders Association (BBA), meaning that it is certified for use on building sites and within the structural foundations of buildings. The function of the DPM is to prevent the transference of water and water vapour from the environment into the home. The membrane can be used as an oversite membrane also between the blinded hardcore bed and base concrete. It can also be used between the base concrete and screed.
The polythene, being of heavy duty strength, can also be adapted for use around the house, for example, covering furniture, temporary protective flooring, interim window replacements (during building work) and a water resistant layer in DIY home projects. The DPM comes in 3m x 4m and 4m x 5m sheets, please do measure the area of coverage accurately in order determine the size of sheets needed. For large areas a number of sheets are usually used to correctly water proof and seal the foundations of a house. Any competent builder will be able to use, and deal with, DPM in the correct manner, making sure that the DPM is correctly installed.