Did you know that foundation joints below grade are at risk for water infiltration? A water stop is used within concrete foundation joints—often called cold joints—to protect these vulnerable areas from water entering the building.
Hydrostatic pressure can force water through foundation joints, making these locations particularly susceptible to leakage.
A water stop is installed directly within the joint of concrete pours to block water migration through the joint. These components are embedded within the concrete and act as a barrier to prevent water from passing through the connection between pours.
Water stops are often used alongside dampproofing or waterproofing systems to further reduce the potential for water infiltration in below-grade conditions.
Water stops are available in a range of materials, sizes, and configurations depending on project conditions. They are typically embedded into the joints of concrete pours during construction, where they remain permanently within the foundation assembly.
Selecting the appropriate type of water stop depends on joint conditions, water exposure levels, and structural requirements.
When selecting a water stop product, consult your geo-technical engineer, structural engineer, façade consultant, and the product manufacturer. These professionals can help determine the appropriate system based on soil conditions, hydrostatic pressure, and overall foundation design.
Water stops are a critical component for protecting concrete foundation joints from water infiltration. Proper coordination with engineers and manufacturers helps ensure the selected water stop system performs effectively under below-grade conditions.
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