Waterstops are primarily used for two conditions: at cold concrete joints and when details protrusions through a waterproofing system. They are designed to activate when they come in contact with water, which creates a continuous seal to prevent the passage of water.
There are many kinds of waterstops. “Embedded” waterstops can be made of materials like TPER (Thermoplastic Elastomeric Rubber) (a chemical and heat resistant rubber), stainless steel, and more commonly PVC.
Hydrophilic waterstops can be made with materials like a bentonite rubber/asphalt blend, a mixture of rubber and hydrophilic resin, or an acrylic polymer.
Non-hydrophilic waterstops can be tacky and made from mastic, butyl, or an asphaltic waterstop.
EPRO has a range of waterstops and our team can help identify and specify the correct material for job-specific needs. This chart highlights the available products:
![](https://dbdyqfqtqznop.cloudfront.net/images/Screen-Shot-2024-07-11-at-12.28.00-PM.jpg)
A Closer Look: BentoTak
EPRO’s BentoTak is a self-adheisive waterstop strip where no adhesive or mechanical fastening is necessary. It quickly and securely adheres to irregular concrete and metal surfaces, and can handle up to five days of ponding water.
![](https://dbdyqfqtqznop.cloudfront.net/images/Picture1.jpg)
When hydrated, BentoTak swells to fill cracks and fissures in concrete to prevent the passage of water. It forms a hydrophilic seal and it maintains this swelling ability indefinitely.
Check out this BentoTak application video to see the product in action - and if you have any questions, please drop us a line!