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The Hidden Waterproofing Details That Make or Break Your Project (Joints, Waterstops & Sealants)

Written by Michaela Rowland | Sep 8, 2025 1:05:18 PM

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:

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