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Bituthene

Used successfully for decades, Bituthene offers reliable protection against groundwater in below-ground situations.

1

Reliable, positive side waterproofing for basement waterproofing.

2

Easy to install with self-sealing facer and robust backing.

3

Protects structures against hydrostatic pressure and water ingress.

Bituthene on wall
Bituthene Render

Introduction

Bituthene is a high-performance waterproofing system designed for below-ground applications where reliability is critical. Bituthene is a self-adhesive membrane ideal for positive-side foundation walls, retaining walls, and basements. 


Over decades, it has been widely used in New Zealand construction, particularly in high-density developments and civil infrastructure, where all levels of hydrostatic pressure have been expected. 


Bituthene offers excellent adhesion to primed substrates and self heals around penetrations. It is compatible with Preprufe to create an integrated below-ground solution. The system requires proper surface preparation and should be installed by trained professionals. 


With a strong track record across NZ’s toughest below-ground conditions, Bituthene provides peace of mind for designers specifying tanking solutions.

Considerations

  • It is essential to create a sound and solid substrate to eliminate movement during the concrete pour. Substrates must be regular and smooth with no gaps or voids.


  • Inspect the membrane before installation of insulation or drainage protection. Repair any damage using approved techniques.


  • Corners, pipe penetrations, and terminations must be carefully sealed with compatible accessories or liquid membranes to ensure continuity.


  • May only be installed by approved Nuralite applicators

Bituthene being installed

Technical Documents

For all the Technical Documents you require.

Bituthene being installed

Product Brochure

More information for download

Installation Details

A comprehensive set of Installation Details is available

FAQs

How does Bituthene protect against water ingress in underground structures?
Bituthene membranes adhere tightly to primed concrete surfaces, creating a continuous, flexible waterproof barrier. Its bituminous composition enables it to self-seal minor cracks and accommodate limited substrate movement. When installed correctly, the membrane stops water before it reaches the structure, making it ideal for New Zealand’s high groundwater or high rainfall regions
Is drainage important when using Bituthene below ground?
Drainage is important because even the best membrane can fail if exposed to sustained hydrostatic pressure. A proper drainage system—such as perimeter footing drains and vertical drainage mats—reduces the water load on the membrane and helps ensure long-term effectiveness. Good drainage also reduces the chance of water ingress at construction joints or membrane imperfections
Can insulation be incorporated into a Bituthene tanking system, and if so, where should it be placed?
Yes, insulation can be used in conjunction with Bituthene in below-ground applications, but its placement is critical. For best performance, rigid insulation—such as Nuratherm XPS Combi (extruded polystyrene)—is typically installed outside the membrane, between the Bituthene layer and the backfill. This setup keeps the waterproofing layer warmer, reduces thermal bridging, and protects the membrane from backfill damage.

Related Projects

Catalina Bay Apartments | Preprufe | Bituthene

Catalina Bay Apartments

Auckland

Threepwood Passive House | Nuraply 3PT/3PTM

Threepwood Passive House

Otago

One St Stephens Apartments | Preprufe | Bituthene

One St Stephens Apartments

Auckland

Learn About

Basement Waterproofing & Tanking Systems – NZ Building Guide

Below Ground Tanking

Protect basements from water ingress with tanking membranes. Compare positive-side and below-ground waterproofing.

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Waterproofing Membranes for Flat Roofs – NZ

Waterproof Membrane Options

Explore waterproof membrane types for flat roofs in NZ. Compare TPO (single ply), bitumen, and liquid systems for durability.

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Related Webinars

Basement tanking system installation, demonstrating advanced waterproofing methods to prevent moisture ingress and structural damage.

Advanced Tanking Solutions

Understanding the technical aspects of tanking below ground structures.

Presented by Mike Skilton (Outright), Marius Janse Van Vuuren (Nuralite) and Lucy Adams (Kaizon).

Principles of Passive House Design

Discussing designing with Passive House principles in New Zealand.

Presented by Shane Clarke, Mike Skilton (Nuralite) and Sian Taylor (Team Green Architects).

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