SealBoss News / Blog

Blind Side Waterproofing Injection

Curtain Injection Training and Visualization

Introduction

In the competitive world of construction, innovation is key to staying ahead, and blind side waterproofing is transforming how contractors address water intrusion. By employing blind side injection technology, this advanced method forms durable, moisture-proof barriers on the exterior or hard-to-reach sides of below grade structures.

Combining precision and effectiveness, it offers a reliable solution to complex waterproofing challenges while opening up opportunities for contractors to expand their expertise and services.

Blind Side Waterproofing using Polyurethane Foam Injection Technology

Cross-training and diversifying services have become essential for contractors seeking to stay ahead in the specialty construction repair and waterproofing industry.

Expanding into specialized techniques like blind side waterproofing can not only be strategically advantageous but also highly lucrative. By adopting advanced technologies such as blind side injection, contractors can provide innovative solutions to complex waterproofing challenges.

Showcasing the Power of Blind Side Waterproofing

A recent demonstration highlighted the effectiveness of urethane-based injection systems in blind side waterproofing applications. Using state-of-the-art tools and materials, the process showcased the water-displacing properties of hydrophobic foam under two different scenarios, demonstrating both precision and versatility.

Maze Simulation:

A mock-up mimicking a maze-like structure was created using a concrete patio paver fitted with a plexiglass panel. The setup allowed observers to see the hydrophobic foam’s growth as it expanded into confined spaces, utilizing available moisture to polymerize into a closed-cell foam. The foam not only displaced water but also formed a durable, water-repellent barrier, ensuring no further water could penetrate the structure.

Open Space Simulation:

In the second mock-up, the foam was injected into a wide, open cavity. As moisture was introduced via a pressurized water bottle, the resin reacted, expanded, and filled the void. This demonstrated the foam’s ability to adapt to different spaces, provided moisture was present to trigger the polymerization process.

The equipment used in these demonstrations included a signature pump for precise material delivery, as well as versatile packers designed for efficient injection into drilled ports. These tools showcased the seamless application of hydrophobic foam in real-world scenarios.

Video: Curtain Injection Mock-up to Demonstrate Permeation and Expansion of Grout at 2x Speed

Blind Side Injection in Practice

Blind side injection, a cornerstone of modern blind side waterproofing techniques, is currently being implemented in high-profile projects. One such project involves the use of a 2-foot-on-center staggered drilling grid to inject hydrophobic foam behind a wall. This process creates an interlocking network of foam disks on the blind side of the structure, forming a continuous barrier against water intrusion.

This method effectively prevents hydrostatic pressure from pushing water through the wall and into interior spaces. For building tenants and management, the results are clear: dry, functional spaces protected from water damage and its associated risks.

Benefits of Blind Side Waterproofing

Blind side waterproofing, particularly when utilizing curtain and bladder injection technology, offers a range of advantages over traditional waterproofing methods:

Precision: Targets problem areas directly with minimal disruption to the structure.
Durability: Forms a long-lasting, water-repellent barrier that resists moisture infiltration.
Versatility: Effective in confined spaces, large voids, and various construction scenarios.
Cost-Effectiveness: Reduces the need for excavation or demolition, lowering project costs.
Adaptability: Works in a variety of below grade applications.

These benefits make blind side injection an essential tool for contractors looking to provide cutting-edge waterproofing solutions.

A Strategic Advantage for Contractors

With many companies prioritizing lean operations, contractors who expand their capabilities into blind side waterproofing can gain a significant competitive edge. By mastering advanced systems, such as urethane leak seal injection, contractors can position themselves as leaders in the industry while addressing critical waterproofing needs for clients.

Blind side injection technology is not only practical but also highly adaptable, providing reliable solutions in diverse scenarios. This makes it an ideal addition to a contractor’s skill set, enhancing their ability to take on high-value projects.

Best Practices for Blind Side Waterproofing

To achieve success with blind side waterproofing, contractors should follow these best practices:

Comprehensive Site Assessment: Identify areas most susceptible to water intrusion and plan the injection grid accordingly.
Proper Equipment Usage: Utilize specialized pumps and packers for precise material delivery.
Controlled Moisture Introduction: Ensure adequate moisture is available for foam polymerization without over-saturation.
Strategic Drilling Patterns: Use staggered drilling grids to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Ongoing Training: Invest in cross-training teams to maximize efficiency and expertise.

These practices ensure that projects are completed efficiently and to the highest standards.

Blind Side Waterproofing Products

Blindside waterproofing injection systems, such as those offered by SealBoss, provide cutting-edge solutions for preventing water infiltration in below-grade construction. Products like polyurethane foams and resins are designed for rapid expansion and adaptability, effectively permeating soils and aggregate, as well as sealing cracks, voids, and joints even in high-pressure water conditions. Acrylate gels are particularly well-suited for fine crack injection and soil permeation, delivering low-viscosity penetration and forming flexible, long-lasting water barriers.

For structural repair and reinforcement, epoxy resins offer exceptional bonding strength and chemical resistance, ensuring durable protection in demanding environments. These advanced materials work seamlessly with SealBoss injection systems to deliver reliable, efficient, and long-term waterproofing solutions.

Learn More About Blind Side Waterproofing

For contractors looking to expand their service offerings, blind side injection and other advanced waterproofing systems present a significant opportunity. By embracing this innovative technology, professionals can tackle complex waterproofing challenges while delivering long-lasting, high-performance results.

To learn more about these systems and how they can enhance your next project, visit SealBoss.com or contact a technical advisor today.

Related Content

Blind Side Waterproofing Injection

Click Here

Injection

Contact Your SealBoss ® Technician

SealBoss Curtain Injection

Bladder / Curtain Injection – Curtain Wall Grouting Method

Introduction

Bladder or Curtain Injection is a specialized method used to seal below-grade block and concrete wall structures by forming a protective membrane through the permeation and consolidation capabilities of hydrophilic and hydrophobic grouts. Utilizing the SealBoss Leak Sealing Cube for training, contractors gain an intricate understanding of the injection process and grout behavior. This hands-on approach, which allows observation of the process from the soil side of the wall, prepares professionals for effective on-site applications, ensuring thorough and lasting waterproofing solutions.

Curtain Injection Injection Training with a SealBoss Leak Sealing Cube

The primary objective of the curtain injection method is to effectively seal below-grade block and concrete wall structures by leveraging the advanced membrane-forming, permeation, and consolidation capabilities of hydrophilic and hydrophobic injection grouts. This process ensures long-lasting waterproofing, even under challenging conditions where traditional methods may fail.

This specific training for curtain injection is conducted using the SealBoss Leak Sealing Cube, a sophisticated version of our mock-up designed to replicate real-world scenarios. The Cube offers contractors and engineers a detailed insight into the intricacies of the injection process and the dynamic behavior of chemical grouts under varying conditions. Equipped with Plexiglas cross-sections, the Cube allows trainees to observe the injection process from the ‘other side’—a perspective typically hidden during actual on-site curtain grouting. This unique visual aid is invaluable in understanding how the grout permeates and consolidates within the substrate, forming an effective waterproof membrane.

By closely following the grout’s interaction with the positive soil-side behind the wall, trainees develop a comprehensive understanding of the injection method and technology. This hands-on experience is critical for mastering the application of these advanced materials, ensuring successful outcomes in both routine and complex waterproofing projects. The ability to visualize and understand these processes in a controlled environment prepares professionals for the challenges they will face on the job site, ultimately leading to more effective and reliable sealing solutions in the field.

Procedure Outline

Identify the water source and pattern of moisture intrusion. Most block, stone, and brick leaks are caused by failed positive side membranes. Block walls are often unfilled which also creates voids and pockets for water intrusion. Drill Grid Pattern Drill 3/8 or 1/2 inch holes along the water marks at 2 feet intervals. Moving up the wall, continue to space the holes at 2 feet intervals creating a grid pattern of injection holes as seen in the image. These drill holes are to penetrate the substrate at full depth creating a channel in the wall through which chemicals can be injected.

Packer Install

Once the grid pattern is created, mechanical packers may be inserted into each one. In the case of block walls that are not filled adequately, longer packers are recommended providing a full length channel which ensures that material reached the back side of the wall. it is not recommended to simply fill the blocks with materials – block wall curtain injections require material travel through the entire wall. In the case of older and disturbed stone or brick structures, however, it is also common to inject the structure itself as seen to the right.

For high volume applications, Plastic Button Head Packers are available.

Injection Products and Pumps

In today’s focus, we highlight the SealBoss ® 1510 Curtain Injection Foam and SealBoss ® 15X Accelerator. The single component SB 1510 chemical injection grout is catalyzed with SB 15X Accelerator at variable percentages to either create low foaming expansion or high foaming expansion properties, with the accelerator dosage varying between 2 % to 25 %.

epending on site-specific needs, a selection of products is available, including the hydrophobic SealBoss 1510 / 1570 Foam, SealBoss FlexGel hydrophilic polyurethane gel, or SealBoss® 2400 SLV acrylic gel, are available.

Application Considerations

Because backfill and soil consolidation behind the structures are often unknown, applicators must monitor flow rates and material consumption closely.

Given the often unpredictable nature of backfill and soil consolidation behind structural walls, it is imperative for applicators to closely monitor flow rates and material consumption. In cases where significant voids are expected, the use of expansive hydrophobic polyurethane grout, such as SealBoss® 1510 Water Stop Foam, is recommended. This approach effectively fills large voids, creating a solid mass that can serve as a stable foundation for subsequent hydrophilic gel injections if necessary.

The Stage Grouting Technique

The stage grouting technique is often recommended in such situations. This method involves injecting the product in measured stages with reduced volumes. Each stage is given adequate time to react and form a natural barrier, prior to injecting the next grout stage. This strategic layering and controlled application enhances the overall effectiveness of the grouting process, ensuring comprehensive coverage of product along the outside of the wall and optimal stability.

For in depth training training on specific injection techniques or on-site assistance, please reach out to your SealBoss® Technical Representative or contact the main office at 714-662-4445 for further support.

Links

Curtain / Bladder Injection Products

Download
Injection Brochure

Click Here

Curtain

Contact Your SealBoss ® Technician

Curtain Injection In Pictures

Curtain Injection in Pictures

And Podcast

Curtain / Bladder Injection - Curtain Wall Grouting Method

Water intrusion is a persistent challenge for below-grade concrete structures, where traditional patching and surface sealers often fall short. The failures of these surface-applied remedies—such as patches, liquid sealers, and membrane applications—stem from their inability to address the root causes of leaks. These methods provide only temporary relief, leaving structures vulnerable to recurring hydrostatic pressure and ongoing water damage.

Curtain wall grouting, including advanced techniques like curtain and bladder injections, offers a reliable, long-term solution to these challenges. Unlike surface treatments, these methods work by creating a robust waterproof membrane and water barrier behind the structure. This approach not only seals cracks and cold joints from within but also fortifies the structure against future water intrusion.

By injecting specialized grouts through the structure to form a protective layer on the positive side, curtain injection ensures a comprehensive and lasting seal. Whether applied through stage grouting or other targeted injection methods, this professional approach delivers durable protection, minimizing service interruptions and maximizing cost-effectiveness in the long run.

Curtain / Bladder Injection is the Reliable Way to Waterproof Your Below Grade Concrete Structure Permanently

Why Patches and Liquid Sealers Often Don’t Stand the Test of Time

Experiencing the frustration of failing patches and paint applications on damp, actively leaking, below-grade structures is something many of us can relate to.

These are typically failed attempts to block hydrostatic water intrusion using surface-applied remedies that serve as temporary solutions at best.

Interior patches and membrane applications, while seemingly addressing the problem, often don’t tackle the root cause and rarely provide a lasting waterproofing resolution.

A Professional Approach to Curtain Injection:

Sealing Cracks Permanently and Establishing a Waterproof Membrane and Water Barrier behind the Structure

Water leakage via cold joints, cracks, and other irregularities in concrete can frequently only be effectively and permanently sealed using advanced injection techniques, such as curtain, bladder, and stage grouting injection methods.

The SealBoss Injection Product offers a professional solution to these issues, filling and sealing the cracks from the inside out. This product is injected through the structure, forming a membrane on the structure’s positive side, thus providing a more effective and lasting waterproofing solution.

The Art of Stage Grouting Technique

In complex grouting scenarios, the stage grouting technique is often the favored approach. This process entails a strategic series of injections carried out in a staged manner, utilizing lower volumes of product in each application.

Each stage of this meticulous process is allowed sufficient time to react, allowing the grout to solidify and establish a natural barrier before proceeding with the subsequent stage of grouting. This carefully phased and controlled deployment not only elevates the overall efficacy of the grouting operation but also ensures thorough and consistent coverage along the exterior of the wall.

Comparative Cost Analysis of Injection Grouting Sealing Methods

Understanding the financial impact of various sealing techniques is essential for making cost-effective decisions. Below is a comparison.

Crack Injection

Direct Costs: Moderate for materials and labor, product is injected directly into the cracks, joints, and voids. Low for equipment.
Indirect Costs: Minimal, as the method is fastest and causes little service interruption.

Curtain Grouting

Direct Costs: Higher for materials and labor, product is injected through the structure into the substrate behind, which results in higher material consumption. Packers are set in distinctive patterns. Moderate for equipment.
Indirect Costs: Higher, due to the lengthier process of preparation and product pumping, which can lead to more significant service disruptions.

Links

Curtain / Bladder Injection Products

Professional Polymers

Premium Packers

Powerful Pumps

SealBoss Injection Pump Systems

Mockups
Curtain Wall Grouting | Negative Side Injection Waterproofing

"The Mockup is Worth its Weight in Gold"
Technical Podcast for the Infrastructure Repair Industry

Download
Injection Brochure

Click Here

Blanket Injection – Horizontal Waterproofing

Blanket Injection

Horizontal Waterproofing Injection Technique

What is Blanket Injection?

The process of Blanket Injection or Horizontal Curtain Injection involves injecting a water activated, single component polyurethane foam or gel resin into the space between a slab and the supporting soil substrate for the purpose of providing a waterproofing barrier. The objective is to prevent erosion and water seepage from below the slab through any cracks and joints.

Blanket Injection and Curtain Injection are considered primarily waterproofing injection methods and should be performed using chemical grout resins with excellent penetration and moderate gel time properties. With accelerator controlled systems, gel times are adjustable to suit the individual conditions on the jobsite.

If left untreated, cracks and joints in concrete slabs permit water migration into the structure driven by hydrostatic pressure — leading to rebar corrosion, mold, and further destruction of other infrastructure, including damages to walls, doors, furniture, equipment and more.

Void Fill and Blanket Injection with SealBoss 1510 Polyurethane Chemical Grout

Scope

A mixed-use, commercial and agricultural building in Oklahoma had a water pipe burst under substantial hydrostatic pressure, causing significant erosion under the concrete floor with the potential for subsequent water ingress through cracks and joints throughout the whole mixed-use building.

Solution

The proposed solution was to fill the voids and to create a waterproof barrier und the slab using the Blanket Injection Method.

Filling of the voids and creating waterproof barrier underneath the slab was achieved by using an expandable, water-activated, single component hydrophobic chemical injection grout with excellent void filling, penetration, and waterproofing properties.

The gel time needed to be adjustable for shorter and longer gel times. The product had to react on contact with moisture, and the expansion pressure had to be controllable, to avoid any lifting of the slab.

SealBoss 1510 with SealBoss 15X Accelerator were the products of choice.

Overview of Repair

Injection packers were set in a grid pattern, roughly a three foot on center grid with an expected travel of one and a half feet in all directions from the point of injection. The expected travel would be accomplished by varying the SealBoss 15x accelerator/catalyst percentage between 5% and 20% by volume based on real time behavior of substrate.

Monitoring

Since this application was performed during a contractor training, travel of foam was monitored in three separate ways to visualize the effectiveness of the repair.

Firstly, the removal of an adjacent packer creates a control hole for the successful spread of injection grout, and an immediate path of least resistance, allowing for some displaced substrate and water to escape from the open hole rather than building up and creating blockages.

In addition, a Borescope and a Thermo-Imaging Camera were used to visually enhance the training. However, neither a borescope, nor a thermographic camera are essential tools for successful blanket and curtain injection procedures.

The borescope was used to get a visual of the void prior to injection and to observe the travel of foam during the injection process. The thermo-imaging camera was utilized during the injection process to visualize the spread of the expanding exothermic injection grout.

Find more information on the use of thermography for injection process monitoring here.

Injection Process

During the blanket injection process, the resin was injected into each packer in up to one-half gallon intervals with varied Sealboss 15X catalyst percentages added.

During the Injection it was determined that all perimeter packers in the injection grid would be injected with 15% to 20% SealBoss 15X catalyst added. This percentage results in a more aggressively reacting foam, creating a dam like structure between the slab and substrate, specifically along the perimeter of the injection area. While injecting the perimeter packers the adjacent interior packer was removed to monitor volume of resin needed to make real time adjustments to injected resin volume.

Once all perimeter packers had been injected, interior packers were injected working towards the center of the room injecting in intervals and monitoring resin flow.

The interior packers of the grid were injected with a slower, less reactive foam, catalyzed at a ratio of only five to ten per cent, resulting in a longer gel time, decreased expansion speed and reduced expansion rate — allowing the chemical injection grout to travel much further during injection.

With a varying void depth of up to one inch in an 18’ x 20’ area, 20 gallons of SealBoss 1510 and 2 gallons of 15x Catalyst were used.

Materials and Tools Used

Learn More

Please don’t hesitate to call us at 714-662-4445 with any questions, or request to be contacted here, we look forward to helping you find a solution. On-site support from knowledgeable and experienced technical reps is available upon request. Check out our Crack Injection Kits.

Note: For slablifting and structural void filling applications please cross-reference dry-reactive, moisture independent, fast reactive two component lifting and void fill foam SealBoss 1640

Curtain Injection Links