Leaking concrete joints can both result in costly repairs and lead to severe health hazards such as mold or fungus growth. Additionally, incoming water can bring contaminants into the concrete, corrode steel reinforcements, jeopardize structural safety and shorten the overall lifetime of the concrete structure. In the past, traditional waterstop systems have been used to act as a physical barrier to block water penetration at joints. Over the last 25 years, more advanced and economical waterproofing systems and materials for joints have been developed.These new systems are easier and more efficient to use and give the structure longer lasting protection. One of these systems is Kryton International Inc.’s Krystol Waterstop System. Winner of the Most Innovative Product Award at World of Concrete in 2006, this revolutionary system provides both a physical and chemical barrier to water ingress. It relies on two products for guaranteed protection: Krystol Waterstop Grout, the physical barrier, and Krystol Waterstop Treatment, the chemical barrier. When mixed with water, Krystol Waterstop Grout forms a stiff putty consistency that is trowelled into a triangular strip along the center of the joint. After it has hardened, Krystol Waterstop Treatment is brushed on top of the grout and around the joint area. Once applied, active crystalline chemicals in the Treatment cause microscopic crystals to grow, permanently blocking the movement of water. The Krystol Waterstop System is quick and easy to install, does not require skilled labor and adheres extremely well to concrete surfaces.
Source: Arab Construction World
