PVC Waterstop Joints

To accommodate variations in hydrostatic pressure and movement, most PVC waterstops come in different profiles, widths, and thicknesses. For several decades, the most commonly used waterstops were those shaped like two bulbs with a central flat section. Today, CORTARTEC offers different models of PVC waterstop joints for every application, featuring various ribbed designs to provide better adhesion to concrete and enhance their waterproofing performance.

Our waterstop strips are available with flat or bulb-shaped centers in widths ranging from 100 to 520 mm and material thicknesses from 3.5 to 12 mm. Flat PVC waterstop joints are recommended for construction and contraction joints where little or no movement is expected. PVC waterstop joints with a flexible central bulb allow for longitudinal and transverse movement; these waterstop joints are suitable for expansion joints. The central bulbs come in various sizes to accommodate different joint movements.

The width of the waterstop profile should be selected based on the expected water pressure to which the joint will be subjected. The general rule is that the larger the size of a waterstop (e.g., width), the greater the hydrostatic pressure it can withstand.

However, it is not just the size that affects performance; the thickness of the joint profile material and the ribs also play important roles in withstanding higher hydrostatic pressures. Our technical department can recommend the size and type of PVC waterstop joint suitable for your application.

ELASTOMERIC PVC WATERSTOP JOINTS

CORTARTEC waterstop joints are made of elastomeric PVC (high-quality polyvinyl chloride) and are produced through extrusion using resin and chemical additives, such as plasticizers and stabilizers. The joints are embedded in concrete at construction joints and provide a continuous, watertight diaphragm-type barrier
that is resistant to hydrostatic pressure. They can be applied to construction, contraction, or expansion joints to dynamically accommodate various types of movement, such as transverse, longitudinal, and asymmetric elongation.

Various widths, thicknesses, and sizes are available to fit almost all construction joints. Cortartec PVC waterstop joints can be installed in a variety of situations and are unaffected by moisture or rain in any weather conditions

The selection and application of Cortartec waterstop joints depend on performance requirements, the type of application, and exposure to the type of water and the chemicals present in it.

The best installation method is to secure the Cortartec PVC waterstop joints to the concrete reinforcement mesh along its perimeter; the fastening and positioning clamps are easily attached to the reinforcement mesh.

The Cortartec Waterstop joint is positioned at the center of the structural or construction joint. The connection between sections of PVC waterstop is made by mechanically clamping both ends with steel clamps, ensuring the joint is watertight and waterproof.

Features and benefits of Waterstops:

-High tensile strength.

-Superior elongation capacity

-High elasticity and durability

-High resistance to acids, ozone, seawater, and even diesel fuel

-Not susceptible to fatigue-induced deterioration

-Does not discolor concrete

-No electrolytic reaction with surrounding metals

-Capable of withstanding hydrostatic pressure

-Suitable for the expansion and contraction movement of joints

-Inert to temperature changes

-Easy to install by tying the outer flanges of the PVC waterstop joint to the reinforcing bars