Active Leakage Requires a Different Approach
Applying a waterproof coating over actively flowing water is rarely the correct first step.
The flow itself usually has to be controlled before the broader waterproofing treatment can proceed.
Concrete structures commonly leak through:
- cracks;
- cold joints;
- construction joints;
- tie holes;
- honeycombed concrete;
- pipe penetrations; and
- defective interfaces.
For these conditions, Xypex offers Patch'n Plug, a fast-setting hydraulic cement repair compound enhanced with crystalline waterproofing technology.
What Does Patch'n Plug Do?
Xypex states that Patch'n Plug is specifically intended for applications including:
- stopping active water flow through cracks;
- repairing concrete before crystalline coating;
- repairing leaking construction joints; and
- sealing around pipe penetrations.
The material sets very rapidly, making it useful where flowing water must first be brought under control.
Leak Repair Is More Than Filling the Hole
A visible leakage point does not always represent the exact point where water enters the structure.
Water may enter several metres away and travel through:
- cracks;
- construction joints;
- voids;
- reinforcement interfaces; or
- porous concrete.
It then emerges at the easiest exit point.
For this reason, effective leak repair starts by understanding the route being taken by the water.
A proper remedial sequence may involve:
- identifying the defect;
- opening and preparing the affected area;
- controlling active water;
- repairing cracks or voids;
- applying crystalline treatment;
- treating neighbouring vulnerable areas; and
- monitoring the repair.
Common Structures Requiring Leak Repair
Tetrabuild may encounter this type of waterproofing requirement in:
- basements;
- water tanks;
- lift pits;
- retaining walls;
- tunnels;
- concrete roofs;
- swimming pools;
- culverts;
- reservoirs; and
- industrial structures.
The objective should always be to repair the water pathway, not just cover the visible stain.
