What are the causes of construction quality problems with waterstops

I. Material aspects

1. Unqualified waterstop quality

The purchased waterstop may have quality issues. Its rubber may not meet the standards for hardness, strength, and elongation. It could be due to the manufacturer’s issues with raw materials and production.

Some small sellers may use inferior rubber to cut costs. Or, they may simplify the production process. This can lead to unstable waterstop quality.

2. Improper material storage

Store waterstops away from harsh conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, rain, heat, and humidity. Exposure may cause aging, deformation, or deterioration, harming construction quality.

For example, storing rubber waterstop in the open air can age it. This reduces its performance.

construction quality problems with waterstops

II. Design aspects

1. Unreasonable design

The waterstop’s design and selection may not suit the conditions. A waterstop with poor elasticity is bad for areas with large deformation. Also, the wrong size or specs can hinder installation and waterproofing.

Also, poor design of the waterstop’s installation may affect quality.

III. Construction aspects

1. Non-standard construction techniques

If construction staff don’t use standard techniques to install waterstop, it can cause quality issues. If the embedded waterstop isn’t centered in the concrete, it can cause uneven thickness on both sides. This affects how well the waterproofing works. Also, if the external waterstop isn’t stuck down, it might cause hollow spots or detachment.

For waterstop joint treatment, an improper connection method may cause issues. For example, poor control of temperature, pressure, and time during hot vulcanization. Or, using low-quality adhesives for cold bonding. This may weaken the joints, leading to cracks and leaks.

2. Inadequate construction quality control

If the construction team does not control the waterstop installation, they may miss issues. This can happen if there is no rigorous inspection. For example, if someone does not carefully inspect the waterstop, they may damage it. This can happen if workers don’t protect themselves while pouring concrete.

Construction quality also depends on the skills and responsibility of the workers. If construction workers aren’t trained in waterstop techniques, quality problems can occur. A weak sense of responsibility can also lead to mistakes during construction.

IV. Environmental aspects

1. Temperature changes

Temperature changes have a certain impact on the performance of waterstop. In high heat, rubber waterstop may soften and deform. This reduces its waterproofing. In cold weather, it may harden and become brittle, cracking easily.

In areas with large day-night temperature differences, waterstops may experience significant stress. This could affect their service life and waterproofing.

2. Concrete shrinkage

Concrete shrinks during the hardening process. If the waterstop does not bond tightly with the concrete, it may crack due to concrete shrinkage. This can cause leaks.