Structural waterproofing is not about a single product’s ability to stop the ingress of water, but rather a number of products used as a system. External membrane systems, typically used on low-risk projects, are designed to stop water but installation issues, punctures, and defects often lead to leaks. This compromises the structural integrity and allows water to move freely through cracks and jointing.

Higher risk projects continue to evolve, with many owners, engineers, and architects beginning to regularly use crystalline technology as their waterproofing solution. The benefits these products bring to concrete construction are vital. Unfortunately, most manufacturers sell only the admixture and not the complete system. Innovative manufacturers offer complete systems designed to work together to improve the structures longevity.

In fact, it is deemed so important that the American Concrete Institute’s (ACI) latest revision of 212.3R Chapter 15 on Permeability Reducing Admixtures added that waterproofing products need to be supported through other products that deal with the construction details, like construction joints, tie-holes, and pipe penetrations.

For instance, Kryton’s Krystol Waterstop System works with Krystol Internal Membrane (KIM) and includes a number of products that not only encourage Krystol growth in these construction joints and details, but provide options based on construction preference, and risk level.

Krystol Waterstop Treatment is a concentrated crystalline slurry that when applied to construction joints will enhance self-sealing. The treatment is typically used with a waterstop. Krystol Waterstop Grout is used to create an internal waterstop that can be used in horizontal construction joints, and can also be used as an external waterstop. This external waterstop fills pre-formed key ways and can be used in horizontal and vertical construction joints, pipe penetrations, tie holes and control joints. Another fully compatible waterstop option uses the Krytonite Swelling Waterstop, which provides 1000% swelling expansion and offers improved short and long term performance over bentonite. Kryton’s complete waterproofing system also includes a Crack Inducing Waterstop that induces a crack control joint and prevents uncontrolled cracking.

When waterproofing concrete – complete systems do matter. When deciding which waterproofing solution is right for you, not only understand the products but make sure they are part of a complete system. It could be the difference between a lifelong water tight structure, or an expensive water-logged nightmare.