Waterproofing
Parking Structure Cracks
Acrylic
Gel
Injection
WATER – ESSENTIAL YET DESTRUCTIVE
Water is the foundation of life on Earth, yet it also possesses the power to erode, weaken, and destroy. Nowhere is this duality more evident than in the construction industry—particularly in the behavior of concrete.
Water is essential to concrete’s formation, enabling its chemical transformation from a fluid, workable mixture into a solid, durable structure. However, once cured, unwanted water infiltration can become a silent destroyer, corroding reinforcing steel and compromising structural integrity.
Over time, this deterioration can render concrete structures unsafe and unusable. In essence, water is both a creator and a threat—one of the simplest yet most powerful forces shaping our built environment.
This article explores how water intrusion impacts concrete structures—specifically in parking facilities—examining common vulnerabilities, potential consequences, and proven solutions to mitigate damage. By understanding these risks and applying effective waterproofing techniques, engineers and contractors can extend the lifespan of concrete structures and ensure long-term durability.
Waterproofing Parking Structure Cracks
At a parking structure in Burlingame, California, the shotcrete structure and mat slab were exhibiting signs of unwanted ingress from the water table outside of the building.
While evidence of cracking was not necessarily present, efflorescence on the interior surface of the walls told the tale that the migration of unwanted groundwater was presenting a problem.
The structure is referred to as an Automated Parking Structure where building tenants can retrieve their automobiles by entering a code at the entry point to the structure and have their vehicles essentially “delivered” to them once the internal workings of the structure retrieve the vehicle. It becomes obvious from this description of the project that water has no place in the intricate electronic systems that comprise this facility but more so on or near the vehicles that live in this structure. Something needed to be done and a certified specialized contractor was called in to get the water mitigation handled.
The construction of the concrete is something to note, particularly with respect to the steel in place at a double mat (2 layers within the walls) of #9 and #11 bars at a spacing of 24” on center each way. This reinforcing steel is a sturdy configuration –and a lot of steel — all of which is susceptible to corrosion if water is present after the shotcrete’s cure out.
That amount of steel, if subject to corrosion, could, over time lead to spalling and eventually an overall degradation of the structure if left unaddressed.
A Permanent Fix for Persistent Leaks
The SealBoss 2400 super low viscosity acrylic gel injection system was the answer for waterproofing parking cracks permanently.
The 2400 system is extremely well suited to seal structures with very fine and hairline cracks and fissures.
The 24’ high walls needing injection stood atop a 6’ thick cast-in-place mat slab and were +/- 24” thick. Extending from the tops of the walls to grade were 4’ high cast-in-place ring beams. By drilling into the walls 22” (not all the way thorough) and setting mechanical packers into the drilled holes, the delivery of the SealBoss 2400 system was now possible to as was its migration within the substrate.
The environmentally friendly SealBoss 2400 offered outstanding penetration properties similar to plain water, allowing it to permeate throughout the wall’s network of fissures, no matter how tight and narrow. In some instances, the material would shoot out of pinholes and cracks barely visible to the naked eye several feet away, further showcasing its ability to navigate the concrete’s crack and pore network thoroughly and effectively. Once gelled, the material prevented unwanted water migration to reinforcing steel within the substrate.
Mission accomplished
If there are any questions about this project in need of answering please do not hesitate to contact us, we are here to assist in any way we can. Always remember to work safely by wearing eye protection and gloves when handling any type of chemicals. We hope you enjoyed our review of the project outlined above and encourage you to explore our website to learn more about our vast array of waterproofing solutions for concrete structures.
Video – Acrylate Gel Injection SealBoss2400
Super Low Viscosity Penetration Properties
– See How SealBoss 2400 Pushes through
Finest Cracks and Fissures
– See Port to Port Injection Technique
– See Product Travel of Several Feet
SealBoss 2400 Gel Injection System
Stainless Steel Gel Pump
Links to Leak Sealing with SealBoss Acrylate/Acrylic Super Low Injection System
