IBC 2012
Section 1806.3
Waterproofing Required
Where the ground-water investigation required by Section 1802.2.3 indicates that a hydrostatic pressure condition exists, and the design does not include a ground-water control system as described in Section 1806.1.3, walls and floors shall be waterproofed in accordance with this section.
Dampproofing and Waterproofing Code Interpretation
This section implies that a waterproofing application is completed when the site groundwater table is maintained at an elevation of not less than 6 inches below the bottom of the ground slab. The section states that waterproofing is required when hydrostatic pressure will occur.
It is the responsibility of the architect or designer to make certain that the waterproofing component is in compliance with the applicable federal, state or local codes. The primary distinction of the codes is in regard to water table and hydrostatic pressure. A proper engineering study of the grounds is required to establish this criterion for the design phase. ASTM states that dampproofing or waterproofing is required for slabs on ground and foundation retaining walls.
