DIMPLED MEMBRANES & DRAIN BOARD

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DRAIN BOARDS FOR WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS

What is a Dimpled Membrane?

A drain board, also known as a dimpled foundation membrane, is a high-strength plastic sheet engineered to protect foundation walls and manage groundwater. Made from durable high-density polyethylene (HDPE), it features raised dimples that create a permanent barrier and an air gap that relieves hydrostatic pressure against the face of the foundation.

Used by contractors and DIY homeowners alike, drain boards can be installed on the exterior of a foundation to form a permanent waterproof barrier, or on the interior of basement walls to channel water into a sump pump system.

Dimpled Membranes / Drain Boards vs. Drainage Mats — What’s the Difference?

Dimpled membranes / drain boards

Dimpled Membranes

Drain Boards (Dimpled Foundation Membranes): Act as both a waterproof barrier and drainage layer. They are mechanically fastened to the wall and can be installed on the exterior or interior of a foundation. The raised dimples create an air gap that channels water down to the perimeter drain or sump pump while keeping moisture away from the wall surface.

Dimpled Membranes / Drain Boards

Caption

Drainage Mats

Drainage mats are part of a waterproofing system that includes a Waterproof Coating.
They are typically used in townhouse, duplex, shotcrete, and other
commercial construction. They are used behind foundation walls,
retaining walls, planters, podium decks, and green roofs.

Drainage Mats

How Drain Boards Work

On exterior applications, a drain board acts first as a permanent waterproof barrier—keeping water and moisture away from the wall surface. The air gap behind the dimples removes headwater pressure of the face of the wall. Water and moisture go to the footing drain for removal.

On interior installations the drain board is attached to the wall and feeds directly into a sump pump.

Applications and Installation Overview

Drain boards are used in residential and commercial foundations to keep walls dry and protected. They can be installed on concrete, block, ICF, and shotcrete foundations.

Common Applications

  • Exterior Foundations: Creates a waterproof barrier and directs water to the footing drain.
  • Interior Foundations: Channels water into a sump pump for removal.
  • Retaining Walls: Relieves pressure and prevents water buildup behind the wall.
  • Basement Renovations: Adds protection and drainage to existing walls.

Installation Overview

  1. Prepare the Wall – Make sure the surface is clean are free of any loose debris. Patch any tie holes, rock pockets and honeycombs and smooth.
  2. Attach the Drain Board – Fasten it to the wall as per the manufacturers installation instructions.
  3. Overlaps – Overlap the seams by 6 inches. Apply a layer of mastic between the seams and fasten with plugs.
  4. Connect to the Perimeter Drain – install drain stone at least 6" above the footing.
  5. Backfill Carefully – Use clean backfill.

How Long Do Dimple Boards / Dimpled Membranes Last?

SUPERSEAL Construction Products their Dimpled Membrane with a 40 Year warranty to ensure you have peace of mind that your home is protected.

Summary

Drain boards protect foundations by keeping water and moisture away from the wall. They create an air gap that relieves pressure and directs water to the footing drain or sump pump.

When paired with SUPERSEAL Waterproof Coatings, they form a complete waterproofing system that keeps your foundation dry, strong, and protected for years to come.

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