How integrated waterproofing and formwork helps reduce delays in construction projects

Q: Hi David, great to catch up with you! In last year’s announcement, you described our partnership as offering a ‘simplified and risk-free approach to waterproofing’. Now that we’ve been working together for some time, how has that ‘one team’ philosophy translated into practice on live projects?

David Shoolheifer: One example that immediately stands out is a project we completed with PERI UK for some new student accommodation in Cambridge. It was a perfect combination of integrated waterproofing and formwork working together from the outset.

By working as a team with the formwork specialists at PERI and the contractor, the whole process ran so smoothly. As with any construction project, you always encounter the occasional site issue or need a workaround due to conditions on the ground. But because we were working collaboratively, we were able to find quick, practical solutions on site autonomously. This not only showcases our expertise but also frees up contractors to concentrate on other critical areas of the project.

That experience has really set the tone. On the projects we’ve delivered together since then, the same approach has made things far more straightforward and efficient.

Q: Have you seen measurable improvements in programme efficiency or fewer complications on site as a result of the collaboration?

DS: Yes, definitely. A big part of that comes from integrating waterproofing at the formwork stage. When waterproofing is considered at the same time the formwork is being installed, rather than after the concrete has been poured, it’s simply more efficient.

On the Cambridge project, we could clearly see that the process was quicker. Instead of installing formwork, pouring concrete, and then returning to waterproof the structure afterwards, we were able to install structural waterproofing systems before the concrete pour. That reduced the overall time required and made better use of the programme.

It also significantly reduces the risk of remedial work or issues at the waterproofing stage. And when small complications do arise – which they always do on site – it’s much easier to resolve them when everyone is working together from the beginning.

Q: What is the main benefit of this approach you have taken compared to traditional methods?

DS: I want to emphasise something that may sound obvious but underscores this offering: it’s important to begin at the beginning.

The earlier in the design phase we are engaged with the client, the greater the potential for cost-saving. Forward planning is the greatest asset for keeping costs down and timings on track. Knowing that we are going to be installing the waterproofing in conjunction with the formwork means greater anticipation of on site conditions.

Outside of our PERI partnership, we often get called upon when problems occur in the middle of a project, when the concrete has already been placed. Leaving out the design side of structural waterproofing solutions until later in the process is simply a surefire way for unnecessary cost incursions.

Q: This partnership incorporates the BPA product portfolio. How have you found they complement your trusted installation expertise and PERI’s technical support?

DS: Well, first and foremost, they are crucial to offering contractors, developers, and engineers peace of mind. They are easy-to-use and lightweight, which is quite critical on site. Clay-based bentonite sheets, in contrast, which is a typical technology in our industry, are extremely heavy and unwieldy, and then you have to consider stability in adverse weather conditions before concrete cover is provided.

BPA, however, is ahead of the game. They give more consideration than some other manufacturers. The CEMflex plate, for example, is one of the most highly effective and innovative waterproofing non movement concrete joint systems on the market. Installation is made quicker as CEMflex removes the need to bond or weld overlaps by simply fixing them together with a clip.

There are copies and similar things on the market, as you would expect, because people have seen the success of the product and have mimicked it.

But BPA production methods mean they're very consistent. The quality output is exceptional. Their self-healing membranes are some of the best construction waterproofing systems out there.

Q: You’ve been involved in the partnership since the early stages. Has it worked as you originally envisioned?

DS: Yes, I would even say it has worked better than we expected. We believe it's a better solution, offering a better product, and it is cost-competitive. Clients also want simpler processes with the admin. Working together with PERI achieves this.

Before working with PERI, we were keen to get involved in projects, particularly at the formwork stage, before concrete is poured. When we started talking with PERI and then delivered the first few projects together, it confirmed that this is a very effective way to approach integrated waterproofing and formwork.

Both companies already had relationships with BPA, which is how we initially connected. Once we began working together on live projects, it quickly proved to be a logical and efficient partnership.

From a communication and efficiency standpoint, it’s been a major step forward. By dealing with PERI and the contractor at the same time, we avoid the communication gaps that can sometimes occur when multiple parties are involved separately.

Q: How important is that integrated approach when dealing with real-world site challenges across residential and infrastructure projects?

DS: It’s extremely important. Even with the best planning and design, construction projects inevitably encounter unexpected site conditions. It’s all about understanding phasing and sequencing, how materials behave, and that structural waterproofing systems should be selected carefully depending on likely site conditions and the structure type.

Between our three businesses, we live and breathe concrete. It is something we all have a deep interest and knowledge of. It’s what brought us together and what we offer to our customers. The earlier we come onto a project, the better we can assist, grounded by a good understanding of Gateway 2 approval and the need to comply with building regulations without hiccups.

Because SWS handles the waterproofing design and installation while working closely with PERI’s formwork team, we can make adjustments quickly and efficiently. We innovate with the BPA products to match the unique complexities of individual sites. That collaborative approach allows us to respond in real time rather than introducing delays. Ultimately, it makes the whole process smoother for the contractor.

Q: Looking more broadly at the industry, do you think this kind of integrated model is becoming more important?

DS: Absolutely. There’s definitely a growing appetite in the construction industry to simplify processes and reduce complexity. On a typical commercial project today, it’s not unusual to see a vast amount of separate contracts in place. That level of fragmentation creates a lot of administrative burden and can create coordination challenges.

What many contractors are now looking for is ways to consolidate related elements of work into more manageable packages. They still rely on specialist contractors and sub-contractors, of course, but they want solutions that reduce the number of interfaces between trades and make projects easier to manage.

The approach we’re promoting with PERI, combining early design input, consultancy, and installation expertise, fits very well with that shift. It allows waterproofing and formwork to be considered together from the outset rather than as separate stages.