Fix & Waterproofing Inspection

The Fix/Waterproofing Stage is where Darbecca ensures the building is fully protected from water ingress and that internal fixtures are correctly installed and operational. Our role during this phase is to verify that all waterproofing membranes are applied correctly to wet areas�such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries�to prevent long-term water damage. We ensure compliance with the NCC and AS 3740 (Waterproofing of Wet Areas), which outlines the specific requirements for waterproofing in wet areas.

Waterproofing is critical in preventing moisture from entering walls and floors, which could lead to the growth of mould and mildew or structural deterioration. Darbecca checks that membranes are installed continuously and sealed correctly, paying particular attention to wall-floor junctions, as these are the areas most vulnerable to water infiltration.

Plasterboard installation is another key focus at the Fixing Stage, particularly in wet areas where plasterboard must meet moisture-resistant requirements. Darbecca ensures that plasterboard is installed in compliance with AS 2589 (Gypsum Plasterboard � Installation), which outlines the correct fixing methods, jointing procedures, and finishing techniques. The plasterboard must be securely fastened, and any joints, corners, and edges should be prepared for the subsequent finishing stages, ensuring a smooth, durable surface for painting and other treatments. We inspect that plasterboard is correctly installed to meet the prescribed standards for structural integrity and moisture resistance, particularly in high-humidity environments such as bathrooms.

During this phase, we also focus on the correct installation of skirting boards and architraves, both of which are essential for achieving a polished and aesthetically pleasing finish. The skirting installation is checked to ensure it is properly aligned, securely fastened, and consistent with the design requirements. Skirting boards must be installed in accordance with relevant building standards to ensure they function properly while also complementing the overall aesthetic of the space.

Similarly, Darbecca inspects the architrave installation to ensure that it is securely affixed around doors and windows, meeting the required tolerances and alignment standards. The installation of architraves is essential not only for the final aesthetic finish but also for providing a proper seal between the wall and window or door frame, which helps with moisture management and energy efficiency. The architrave installation is verified to be in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and, where required, it is checked for correct placement relative to the overall building design.

The external waterproofing systems are also inspected to ensure that membranes used for balconies, terraces, and other exposed areas comply with AS 4654 (Waterproofing Membranes for External Above-Ground Use). This ensures the building is protected from weather-related damage and will stand the test of time, especially in regions with extreme weather conditions.