Why The Small Details Matter Most
When people talk about waterproofing, the focus usually lands on membranes or concrete additives. But here's the truth:
Most failures don't start there.
They start in the hidden details - the joints, waterstops and sealants that quietly hold the system together. Get these wrong, and even the best membranes can't save you.
Movement Happens. Waterproofing Must Move With It
Every structure moves. Settlement, thermal expansion, load stress - it all creates micro-movements.
If joints aren't designed to flex and stay watertight, water finds a way in.
That's why a good waterproofing system doesn't just block water. It works with the structure's movement.
The Critical Ancillary Systems
Premcrete provides a full suite of ancillary products that integrate seamlessly with membranes:
- Hydrostop WSM Waterstops - embedded protection at active joints
- Cemflex VB joint sealants - flexible, watertight and movement tolerant
- Concrete repair mortars - prepping joints/substrates properly before install
- Protective coatings - shielding exposed areas from attack
Each one is small in cost, but critical in performance.
Where Projects Go Wrong
Industry data shows most waterproofing failures trace back to overlooked details:
- Poor waterstop placement at kicker joints
- No allowance for movement in long walls
- Incompatible sealants causing breakdown
- No access for future maintenance
Each oversight can unravel an entire waterproofing package - leading to expensive rework.
The Cost of Neglect
Ancillary products = a fraction of upfront spend.
But if they fail?
- Repairs cost multiples of original install
- Programmes stall
- Liability lands on the design + build team
Cheap shortcuts become very expensive.
Premcrete's Integrated Approach
We take ancillary products seriously because they make the difference between success and failure.
Our approach:
- Full range of compatible ancillary systems
- Integrated design drawings showing every interface
- Hands-on technical support for detailing challenges
- Single-source warranty covering the whole system
That way, architects and contractors know every piece works together.
Practical Guidance for Architects and Designers
To protect your design:
- Specify ancillary products early - not just as an afterthought
- Check compatibility across membranes, joints, sealants
- Detail every interface in your drawings
- Plan for maintenance of joint + sealant systems
This is how to prevent the hidden weak points from undermining your design.
Protecting Complex Structures From the Details Up
Your waterproofing system is only as strong as its weakest joint.
By giving proper attention to sealants, waterstops and movement systems, you safeguard not just the structure - but your reputation. Premcrete ensures every hidden detail is covered.
Need Help With Detailing?
Talk to our technical team today for system-wide advice: technical@premcrete.com
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