Leakage Causes and Solutions at Rubber Waterstop Joints

I. Introduction

In buildings, rubber waterstops are widely used in waterproofing projects and play a crucial role. But, actual use often sees leaks at rubber waterstop joints. This seriously affects buildings’ service life and performance. This article looks at why rubber waterstop joints leak. It also suggests solutions. The goal is to help engineering technicians with useful references.

II. Reasons for Leakage of Rubber Waterstop

1. Quality Issues

Some manufacturers, to cut costs, use inferior materials to make rubber waterstops. Their products do not meet quality standards. These substandard waterstops are prone to aging, cracking, and deformation. This can lead to leakage.

2. Installation Issues

Rubber waterstops’ water-blocking performance depends greatly on their installation quality. If the installation is not standardized or done properly, it can cause leaks. This includes misaligned waterstops and loose joints.

3. External Factors

Buildings can face problems from outside factors like heavy rain and temperature changes. These issues may deform or damage rubber waterstops, which can lead to leaks.

Rubber Waterstop Joints

III. Solutions

1. Select qualified products.

When buying rubber waterstop, choose products from reputable manufacturers. Strictly follow the selection standards. At the same time, during the on-site acceptance, inspect the waterstop. Check its appearance, size, and physical properties. Ensure its quality meets the design requirements.

2. Strengthen construction management.

During construction, strengthen on-site management. Install the rubber waterstop properly. When pouring concrete, avoid mixing foreign objects into the rubber waterstop. This will affect its water-stopping performance.

3. Take protective measures.

External factors affecting the rubber waterstop must lead us to take protective measures. For example, install anti-seismic features around the building. This helps protect the rubber waterstop from damage. Also, add water-stopping layers and drainage systems on the building’s surface. These improvements boost its water-stopping performance.

IV. Case Analysis

During the construction of a high-rise building in a city, water leaked at the rubber waterstop. The investigation found two main causes. The joints were not tight during installation. And, the concrete pouring was not standardized. This damaged the waterstop.

To fix this problem, the construction unit did a few things:

• They replaced all rubber waterstops and bought them by the standards.

• They improved on-site management to ensure quality in both installation and concrete pouring.

• They added anti-seismic facilities, waterstop layers, drainage systems, and other protections around the building.

The above measures fixed the water leak at the rubber waterstop of the high-rise.

 V. Conclusion

This paper studied the causes of water leakage at rubber waterstops in buildings and the solutions. To fix leaks at rubber waterstops, we must: use qualified products, improve management, and take precautions. In practical work, take measures based on specific situations. This ensures the safety and longevity of buildings.