Why Seal Concrete Water Retaining Structures?

Why seal concrete water retaining structures is a very important question. Construction of all water holding structures must include waterproofing. The waterproofing of these retaining structures is essential to ensure longevity of every retaining structure.

There are many water holding structures. Usually defined as a structure which is designed to hold back or restrain the flow of water. The retaining structure’s surface is treated to prevent the flow of water cause by pressure. (hydrostatic pressure). The following represent different structures which retain water:

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Importance of Waterproofing Retaining Structures

During the construction of these concrete retaining structures it is important to ensure that the waterproofing prevents the flow from either direction. It must prevent water flow from inside to outside or vice versa. (outside to inside). Ground water surrounding retaining structures must never be allowed to infiltrate into the concrete. No matter if the water is inside your structure or outside water penetrating the concrete will cause damage to the structure.

Accomplish watertight concrete with good design. Combine with great workmanship and the use of best materials for great results. There are numerous materials available for waterproofing concrete structures. Cost efficient concrete waterproofing materials are few. Work efficiently to provide complete waterproofness of the water retaining structure. The structure may be under constant hydrostatic pressure. This creates some unique challenges for an effective job and longevity of the retaining structure.

Prevent water from penetrating the concrete no matter what the cost. This is to ensure longevity.

Water attacks concrete by leaking through faults/porous in the buildings retaining Structure.

Physical Erosion – water running or soaking through walls

Chemical Erosion – occurs whenever the water runs through concrete. It brings fresh chemicals e.g. CO² which attack the alkalinity of the concrete. This weakens/degrades the structural strength until the wall falls down.

Salts – really part of the chemical attack. Here salts help create rusting of the steel re-enforcement. Rust destroys the wall as it can grow up to around 8 times it original size. Breaking/cracking concrete which allows even more free moisture to cause even more damage.