Waterstops for Waterproofing of Construction Joints

In any structure, the concrete construction joints are the most vulnerable areas for leaking and cracking due to water penetrating them. In most cases, this leads to mold and fungus growth which can affect the integrity of the structure. Hence, waterstop play a vital role in waterproofing a concrete structure as they are designed as a fluid-tight diaphragm embedded in or running along the joints to solve these problems.

Below are the different types of waterstops for construction joints:

PVC Waterstops

PVC is used to waterproof construction joints by embedding it in both sides of the joint to create a physical barrier. There are a variety of widths, thicknesses, and sizes available to suit almost any construction joint. The advantage of PVC waterstops is that they can be installed even in rainy and wet conditions and they tend to last for a long time. The most popular kind of PVC waterstop is the PVC plasticized waterstop.

Metallic Waterstops

These types of waterstops are commonly made from copper, bronze, lead or steel. These are embedded similarly to PVC waterstop. However, because they are stronger, they are mostly being used in specialized applications such as dams or heavy construction projects as well as in projects where materials will be exposed to extreme temperatures or chemicals.

Bentonite Waterstop

Bentonite waterstop is a type coming under the polymer based hydrophilic waterstop category. Bentonite has a swellable clay compound and can expand to expand sixteen times when it comes in contact with the water. This filling property is used to seal the concrete joints. This waterstop actually seals the system, thus filling the cracks and the voids in the concrete.

Urethane Waterstops

Urethane waterstops also come under the hydrophilic category where an increase of 350% is expected by its type. It swells and forms a compression seal in the construction joints in a concrete structure. Moreover, urethane waterstops can be either applied in the form of strips or by means of a caulking gun, which makes the installation process easy. This material requires 24 hours for curing, only after which concrete pouring is expected to perform.

MCT Group of Companies, one of the top construction chemicals suppliers in the UAE offers a variety of waterstops in its Corrotech waterstop range that has a proven track record for being high quality and a cost-effective solution for water containment needs. If you need a specific type of waterstop for your individual project needs, get in touch with them at +971 4 811 21 00 or visit their website at https://www.mctuae.com/