Waterproofing & Tanking in Townsville & Cairns
Waterproofing is where CBS Building Group began — and over 60 years later it remains one of our core specialties. We install membrane systems, tanking, water tank linings and specialist waterproofing across North Queensland.
Waterproofing Specialists Since 1964
Waterproofing was the trade that Bill and Peggy Church built the CBS business on when they founded North Queensland Building Services in 1964. Over six decades, our waterproofing expertise has expanded to cover every type of system — from built-up roofing membranes to liquid-applied polyurethane systems, to potable water tank linings and below-ground tanking.
In North Queensland's tropical climate, effective waterproofing is critical. Intense cyclonic rainfall, extreme temperatures and prolonged wet seasons place waterproofing systems under significant stress. CBS Building Group understands these conditions and specifies systems proven to perform in the local environment.
We also specialise in the rectification of failed waterproofing systems — properly diagnosing the root cause before recommending the appropriate remedial solution, saving clients from costly repeat failures.
Waterproofing Systems
Membrane Waterproofing
Sheet and liquid-applied membranes for roofs, balconies, bathrooms, planter boxes and buried structures.
Water Tank Waterproofing & Lining
Potable water-safe coatings and membranes for concrete and steel water tanks, reservoirs and retaining structures.
Tanking Systems
Positive and negative side tanking for below-ground structures, basements, lift pits and underground car parks.
Failed Waterproofing Rectification
Assessment and repair of failed or leaking waterproofing systems — diagnosis of root cause before specification of remedial works.
Expansion Joint Systems
Movement joint sealing and waterproofing for structures subject to thermal and structural movement.
Protective Coatings
Waterproof protective coatings for concrete and masonry substrates in aggressive environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about waterproofing and tanking in the tropical North Queensland climate.
Most waterproofing failures we see in Townsville and Cairns come down to one of three root causes: substrate moisture not being addressed before application, the wrong system specified for the exposure, or poor detailing at penetrations and junctions. Cyclonic rainfall, high humidity and UV all accelerate failure where the original spec was marginal.
Often yes. We assess the root cause first — sometimes a localised injection or detail repair is enough, other times the membrane has reached end-of-life and a full overlay is appropriate. We don't recommend full demolition unless it's actually warranted.
Yes — we use coatings certified to AS/NZS 4020 (Products for Contact with Drinking Water) for any potable water tank application. We're happy to provide product certificates with the quote.
Positive-side tanking sits on the water-facing side of a structure (the outside of a basement wall, for example) and is the preferred approach. Negative-side is applied internally and is used when the positive face isn't accessible — typically on existing buildings. We do both.
A well-specified, well-installed waterproofing system in North Queensland conditions should give 15–25 years on roofs and balconies, longer for buried tanking. Cheap or poorly-installed systems often fail within 5 years — which is why specification and surface preparation matter more than product price.
Waterproofing Quote — North Queensland
Contact CBS Building Group for waterproofing services in Townsville, Cairns and surrounding areas.