Reliable Waterproofing for Concrete Structures
Waterproofing concrete joints is critical to ensuring the longevity and durability of structures exposed to water, chemicals, and environmental pressures. Sika Greenstreak PVC Waterstop is a proven solution designed to prevent water infiltration and safeguard concrete joints from leaks, deterioration, and failure. Trusted by engineers and contractors for decades, this industry-leading waterstop delivers exceptional performance in commercial, industrial, and infrastructure applications.
Engineered for both moving and non-moving joints, Greenstreak PVC Waterstops are manufactured using a proprietary PVC compound, ensuring superior flexibility, chemical resistance, and long-term durability. These waterstops effectively create a continuous, watertight seal within concrete joints, preventing moisture ingress and reinforcing structural integrity. Whether used in water and wastewater treatment plants, tunnels, foundations, dams, or containment structures, Sika Greenstreak provides an unmatched level of reliability.
Sika’s commitment to quality is evident in the rigorous industry standards met by Greenstreak waterstops. They comply with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Specification CRD-C 572-74, ensuring top-tier performance in even the most demanding environments. Additionally, these waterstops meet the ACI 350 Code Requirements for Environmental Engineering Concrete Structures, making them a preferred choice for high-stakes waterproofing applications.
From deep foundations to expansive bridge decks, Sika Greenstreak PVC Waterstop is designed to stand up to hydrostatic pressure, chemical exposure, and structural movement, providing long-term protection where it matters most. Whether you’re working on a new construction project or retrofitting an existing structure, you can count on Sika’s expertise and high-performance materials to keep your joints watertight and your structure protected.
Movement Joint Waterstops
Reliable Waterproofing for Expanding and Contracting Joints
Movement joint waterstops are essential for structures exposed to dynamic forces, including thermal expansion, contraction, settlement, and shear movement. These waterstop profiles are specifically engineered to maintain a watertight seal while allowing controlled movement within concrete joints, ensuring both structural integrity and long-term waterproofing performance.
Whether used in bridges, tunnels, dams, water treatment plants, or containment structures, these waterstops play a critical role in preventing leaks and structural failure caused by joint movement. Below are the key movement joint waterstop profiles, each offering unique advantages to suit different project needs.
Ribbed with Centerbulb
Versatile, High-Performance Sealing for Movement Joints
The Ribbed with Centerbulb waterstop is the industry’s most versatile and widely used profile for movement joints. Its carefully engineered design allows for multi-directional flexibility, making it ideal for high-movement environments where expansion, contraction, and shear forces occur due to temperature fluctuations, shrinkage, and heavy structural loads.
This waterstop is particularly well-suited for applications where high hydrostatic pressure is present, such as deep foundations, submerged structures, tunnels, and large-scale infrastructure projects.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Multi-Directional Movement Capability – The centerbulb flexes effortlessly, accommodating expansion, contraction, and lateral movement while maintaining a watertight seal.
- Enhanced Concrete Bonding – The ribbed profile creates a superior mechanical bond within concrete, increasing the strength of the joint and preventing water infiltration.
- Superior Durability – Manufactured from high-quality, virgin PVC, this waterstop offers exceptional resistance to waterborne chemicals, UV exposure, and long-term moisture exposure.
- High-Pressure Resistance – Engineered to withstand significant hydrostatic pressure, making it ideal for water-intensive environments such as reservoirs, dams, and sewage treatment plants.
- Long-Term Reliability – Designed for critical infrastructure projects where maximum waterproofing performance is required for decades to come.
Best for:
- Large concrete structures requiring superior sealing
- Deep foundations, basements, and submerged structures
- High-movement applications with complex environmental conditions
Dumbbell with Centerbulb
Cost-Effective Movement Waterstop for Moderate Joint Flexibility
The Dumbbell with Centerbulb waterstop is designed for moderate joint movement applications, offering a balance of flexibility and affordability. While it features a centerbulb to accommodate movement, its simplified shape compared to the ribbed profile makes it a cost-effective alternative for projects where movement is expected but not extreme.
This profile is commonly used in bridges, retaining walls, and large concrete slabs, where structural movement occurs but does not require the enhanced grip of a ribbed profile.
Advantages:
- Cost-Effective Alternative – Provides movement flexibility at a lower price point compared to ribbed waterstops.
- Smooth Edges for Easy Concrete Placement – The absence of ribs allows for better concrete flow and compaction, reducing voids around the waterstop.
- Reliable Waterproofing – Effectively prevents water infiltration in bridges, retaining walls, and foundation slabs.
- Moderate Movement Accommodation – While it provides flexibility, high-movement applications should opt for a ribbed version for superior bonding and enhanced sealing.
Best for:
- Bridge decks and highway construction
- Large slab-on-grade foundations
- Retaining walls and containment structures
Tear Web
Engineered for High-Movement Joints with Controlled Flexibility
The Tear Web waterstop is specifically designed for structures that experience significant movement. This profile features a thin web section that intentionally ruptures upon initial movement, allowing the U-bulb to flex freely without putting excessive stress on the surrounding material.
By incorporating a controlled rupture point, the Tear Web waterstop prevents material fatigue, ensuring long-term waterproofing performance in structures that undergo early-stage shrinkage followed by long-term movement.
Advantages:
- Watertight Before and After Movement – The design ensures that the joint remains sealed before rupture and continues to function as an expansion joint after movement begins.
- Prevents Material Fatigue – Unlike traditional profiles that may crack under excessive stress, the tear web ruptures in a controlled manner, extending the lifespan of the waterstop.
- Ideal for Dynamic Concrete Structures – Perfect for projects where early shrinkage stress must be accommodated before allowing long-term movement.
Best for:
- Water tanks, reservoirs, and aqueducts
- Underground structures subject to settling and shifting
- Bridges, tunnels, and structures with long-term thermal expansion
Base Seal with Tear Web
Easy Installation with Superior Movement Accommodation
The Base Seal with Tear Web waterstop combines the benefits of a base-seal design with a tear web feature, offering a low-profile installation while still allowing for movement flexibility. This profile is particularly effective in slab-on-grade installations and backfilled walls, where a bottom-seal approach is preferred.
The tear web component allows the joint to relieve early shrinkage stress, preventing premature failure while maintaining a strong, watertight seal.
Advantages:
- Enhanced Movement Accommodation – Larger tear web bulbs allow for greater flexibility, making it ideal for lateral, transverse, and shear movement.
- Secure Waterproofing – Forms a continuous watertight barrier, even in the presence of long-term structural movement.
- Easy Installation – Designed for straightforward placement at the bottom of joints, simplifying the construction process.
While highly effective in many applications, this profile may have limitations when used in structures requiring complex directional transitions.
Best for:
- Slab-on-grade construction
- Backfilled walls and underground foundations
- Joint applications requiring a base-seal approach
Non-Moving Joint Waterstops
Reliable, Long-Term Waterproofing for Static Joints
Non-moving joint waterstops are designed for static joints where no expansion, contraction, or significant structural movement is expected. These profiles form a permanent, watertight barrier, ensuring long-term durability while simplifying installation. Whether used in foundations, retaining walls, reservoirs, or containment structures, these waterstops provide essential waterproofing protection without the need for flexible movement accommodation.
Below are the key non-moving joint waterstop profiles, each offering unique advantages depending on the project requirements.
Flat Ribbed
Superior Sealing with Maximum Concrete Bonding
The Flat Ribbed waterstop is the preferred choice for static joints, offering superior waterproofing performance through its ribbed surface, which enhances mechanical interlock within the concrete. This feature significantly increases bond strength, reducing the risk of water infiltration and ensuring long-term protection in high-moisture environments.
Commonly used in dams, reservoirs, water treatment facilities, and below-grade structures, Flat Ribbed waterstops are particularly effective in projects requiring high water resistance without complex installation adjustments.
Key Advantages:
- Maximum Concrete Bonding – The ribbed profile enhances mechanical interlock, improving sealing performance compared to smooth or dumbbell profiles.
- Reliable Waterproofing for Static Joints – Designed to provide a watertight barrier in construction joints where no significant movement is expected.
- Simplified Installation – The flat shape allows for easy alignment within formwork, ensuring a secure, effective seal without complex positioning.
- Cost-Effective for Large-Scale Projects – Provides excellent performance at a lower cost, making it ideal for projects with multiple static joints.
Best for:
- Construction joints in water-retaining structures
- Below-grade waterproofing
- Applications requiring maximum concrete bonding
Base Seal
Effortless Installation for Horizontal Joints
The Base Seal waterstop is specifically engineered for slab-on-grade applications and backfilled walls, where ease of installation and reliable waterproofing are key priorities. Unlike embedded waterstops, Base Seal profiles are placed directly at the bottom of joints, making them easier to align and install without requiring major formwork modifications.
This profile is commonly used in foundation work, slabs-on-ground, and horizontal construction joints, where a low-profile yet effective waterproofing solution is needed.
Key Advantages:
- Easy Installation & Alignment – Unlike embedded profiles, Base Seal waterstops require minimal adjustments, making them ideal for horizontal joints.
- Reliable Waterproofing – Provides a continuous watertight seal, preventing water ingress in foundation and slab applications.
- Cost-Effective Solution – Simplifies installation and reduces labor costs compared to more complex profiles.
Limitations: While highly effective in horizontal static joints, Base Seal waterstops may not be suitable for projects requiring complex transitions or directional changes.
Best for:
- Slab-on-grade applications
- Backfilled foundation walls
- Straight-run horizontal joints
Dumbbell
A Practical, Cost-Effective Solution for Static Joints
The Dumbbell waterstop is a simplified alternative to ribbed profiles, designed for non-moving construction joints that still require a watertight seal. While it lacks the superior concrete bonding of ribbed profiles, the smooth design allows for easier concrete placement and compaction, making it a cost-effective choice for large-scale projects where static joint waterproofing is essential.
Dumbbell waterstops are commonly used in industrial facilities, reservoirs, and underground structures, where chemical resistance and ease of installation are priorities.
Key Advantages:
- Effective Waterproofing for Static Joints – Creates a durable, watertight barrier, preventing water infiltration.
- Smooth Profile for Easy Placement – The absence of ribs simplifies installation and improves concrete flow and compaction.
- Chemical Resistance – Made from high-quality PVC, offering strong resistance to industrial chemicals and waterborne contaminants.
Considerations: While Dumbbell waterstops are effective for waterproofing, ribbed profiles provide superior mechanical bonding for projects requiring the highest level of water resistance.
Best for:
- Industrial concrete structures with static joints
- Reservoirs and underground facilities
- Projects requiring a balance of cost and effectiveness
Labyrinth
High-Pressure Waterproofing with Interlocking Design
The Labyrinth waterstop features a unique interlocking shape, creating a keyed joint that enhances waterproofing without requiring split bulkheads. This profile is particularly effective in vertical joints, where a secure interlock is necessary to withstand high water pressure and severe environmental conditions.
Labyrinth waterstops are widely used in water reservoirs, dams, and containment structures, where maximum water resistance is required.
Key Advantages:
- Superior Sealing Through Interlocking Geometry – The complex profile enhances waterproofing performance, ensuring long-term durability.
- Eliminates Need for Split Bulkheads – Reduces construction complexity while maintaining an exceptional watertight seal.
- Ideal for High-Pressure Water Containment – Designed for critical water-retaining structures where joint integrity is paramount.
Considerations: While highly effective for vertical joints, Labyrinth waterstops can be challenging to use in horizontal applications due to their complex shape.
Best for:
- Vertical construction joints in high-pressure environments
- Dams, reservoirs, and containment tanks
- Water treatment facilities
Technical Specifications
Engineered for Strength, Flexibility, and Long-Term Performance
Sika Greenstreak PVC Waterstops are designed with exceptional material properties to ensure superior waterproofing performance, durability, and resistance to environmental stressors. These waterstops undergo rigorous testing to meet industry-leading standards, making them a trusted choice for high-performance concrete structures in commercial, industrial, and infrastructure applications.
Whether used in water treatment facilities, containment structures, tunnels, or deep foundations, Sika Greenstreak PVC Waterstops offer the strength, flexibility, and chemical resistance necessary to maintain watertight integrity for the life of the structure.
Performance Properties & Standards
| Property | Test Standard | Performance Value |
| Tensile Strength | ASTM D638 | Minimum 2,000 psi |
| Elongation | ASTM D638 | Minimum 350% |
| Tear Resistance | ASTM D624 | Minimum 300 lb/in |
| Hardness | ASTM D2240 | 79 ± 3 Shore A |
| Low Temperature Brittleness | ASTM D746 | Passes at -35°F (-37°C) |
| Water Absorption | ASTM D570 | Maximum 0.15% |
| Specific Gravity | ASTM D792 | Maximum 1.38 |
| Flexural Stiffness | ASTM D747 | Minimum 700 psi |
Industry Certifications & Chemical Resistance
Sika Greenstreak PVC Waterstops are NSF/ANSI Standard 61 certified, ensuring safe use in potable water applications. This certification makes them ideal for water storage tanks, reservoirs, and other structures requiring compliance with drinking water safety regulations.
Additionally, these waterstops offer outstanding chemical resistance, protecting against a wide range of waterborne contaminants commonly found in wastewater treatment plants, industrial facilities, and chemical containment areas.
- Certified for potable water applications
- Resistant to aggressive waterborne chemicals
- Proven durability in extreme temperature and environmental conditions
With a proprietary PVC formulation engineered for long-term reliability, Sika Greenstreak PVC Waterstops provide exceptional sealing performance in the most demanding construction environments. Whether your project requires high hydrostatic pressure resistance, flexibility for movement joints, or superior chemical durability, these waterstops deliver the performance you need.
Installation Guidelines
Proper installation begins with secure positioning of the waterstop to prevent deflection, misalignment, or damage during concrete placement. Sika Greenstreak® PVC Waterstops are designed to be securely anchored using a variety of attachment methods:
- Pre-Punched Holes: Available on most ribbed profiles, allowing for easy attachment to reinforcing steel.
- Grommets: Brass grommets provide secure and reliable anchoring where needed.
- Hog Rings: Ideal for field applications, hog rings ensure firm positioning and alignment during concrete pours.
During installation:
- The waterstop should be centered within the joint to ensure even embedment and performance.
- Outer edges should be firmly tied to adjacent reinforcing steel using the selected anchoring method.
- Care must be taken to prevent folds or kinks that could reduce waterproofing performance.
Splicing for a Continuous Watertight Barrier
A key component of effective waterstop installation is proper splicing and intersection fabrication. Sika Greenstreak® recommends heat-welded splices, which create a permanent and seamless connection that prevents water infiltration.
- Thermostatically Controlled Splicing: All intersections and straight-run splices must be made using a thermostatically controlled splicing iron, ensuring consistent, reliable welds.
- Factory-Fabricated Intersections: For complex configurations such as “T,” “X,” or 90° bends, factory-fabricated splices are strongly recommended. These pre-fabricated components reduce on-site labor, speed up installation, and minimize the potential for leaks.
- On-Site Splicing: Field splicing should be performed by trained professionals, following Sika’s splicing procedures to achieve a smooth, continuous weld. Proper inspection of all splices before concrete placement is essential.
Special Considerations for Retrofit Waterstops
For projects involving existing concrete structures, Retrofit Waterstops provide a practical and effective way to create a watertight joint where an embedded waterstop is not feasible.
- Secure Attachment: Retrofit Waterstops are mechanically fastened to the existing concrete using stainless steel batten bars and anchor bolts, ensuring a strong and reliable bond.
- Structural Epoxy Gel: The use of a structural-grade epoxy gel enhances adhesion and further reinforces the watertight connection.
- Versatility: Suitable for both static and moving joints, depending on the project’s specific needs.
Key Benefits of Proper Installation & Splicing:
- Continuous Waterproofing: Prevents water infiltration through joints by maintaining an uninterrupted watertight barrier.
- Reduced Risk of Failure: Factory-fabricated intersections minimize the potential for errors in complex configurations.
- Long-Term Performance: Heat-welded splices ensure a strong, durable bond capable of withstanding environmental stress.
Adaptability for Retrofitting: Retrofit Waterstops provide a reliable waterproofing solution for previously constructed joints.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sets Greenstreak PVC Waterstops apart from other waterstops?
Sika Greenstreak PVC Waterstops are engineered to meet and exceed industry standards, including the stringent U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Specification CRD-C 572-74. These waterstops are known for their:
- Superior durability – Made from high-quality PVC, resistant to wear, cracking, and chemical exposure.
- Proven water-tightness – Designed to prevent leaks in both movement and static joints.
- Exceptional chemical resistance – Withstands exposure to waterborne contaminants, making it ideal for wastewater treatment and industrial applications.
- Trusted performance – Used in bridges, tunnels, reservoirs, containment structures, and more for decades.
How do I choose the right waterstop for my project?
Choosing the correct waterstop depends on whether the joint will experience movement:
For moving joints (expansion, contraction, or shear movement):
- Ribbed with Centerbulb – Best for high-movement, high-pressure environments.
- Dumbbell with Centerbulb – Cost-effective for moderate movement.
- Tear Web – Designed for large movements with controlled rupture.
- Base Seal with Tear Web – Ideal for slab-on-grade joints needing movement flexibility.
For non-moving joints (static, no expected movement):
- Flat Ribbed – Maximum concrete bonding for superior waterproofing.
- Base Seal – Easy-to-install, low-profile solution for horizontal joints.
- Dumbbell – Simplified profile for cost-effective waterproofing.
- Labyrinth – Interlocking design for high-pressure containment structures.
- Split Flange – Simplifies installation in straight-run joints.
- Retrofit Waterstops – Used for sealing new-to-existing concrete structures.
Can Greenstreak PVC Waterstops be used in potable water applications?
Yes! Sika Greenstreak PVC Waterstops are NSF/ANSI Standard 61 certified, meaning they are safe for drinking water containment and potable water systems. These waterstops are commonly used in:
- Water storage tanks
- Reservoirs
- Municipal water treatment facilities
- Potable water distribution systems
What is the best method for splicing PVC waterstops?
To create a continuous, watertight seal, splices must be heat welded using a thermostatically controlled splicing iron.
- For Field Splicing: Use a splicing iron at the correct temperature to ensure a uniform, strong bond. Cut and align both ends precisely before welding.
- For Factory-Fabricated Intersections: Recommended for T-joints, X-joints, and complex transitions. Reduces on-site labor and minimizes the risk of leaks.
Avoid solvent bonding or mechanical fasteners for splicing, as they do not provide a long-lasting, reliable seal.
Are Retrofit Waterstops effective for sealing existing joints?
Yes! Retrofit Waterstops are specifically designed for sealing joints between new and existing concrete structures. These profiles are mechanically fastened to the existing structure and secured using:
- Stainless steel batten bars and anchor bolts for a strong mechanical bond.
- Structural epoxy gel to reinforce adhesion and ensure long-term waterproofing.
They are highly effective for rehabilitation projects, expansions, and repairs where embedded waterstops were not originally installed.
How do Tear Web waterstops work?
Tear Web waterstops are engineered for large-movement joints and function in two stages:
- Early-stage restraint: The thin web section holds the joint in place during initial curing and shrinkage.
- Controlled rupture: Once movement occurs, the tear web ruptures in a controlled manner, allowing the U-bulb to flex freely without stressing the surrounding material.
This prevents premature failure and material fatigue, ensuring long-term waterproofing for bridges, tunnels, and structures experiencing dynamic forces.
What conditions require a Labyrinth waterstop?
Labyrinth waterstops are designed for high-pressure water containment and structures requiring superior leak protection. Their interlocking shape provides enhanced sealing performance without requiring split bulkheads. Best applications:
- Dams and reservoirs – Withstand extreme hydrostatic pressure.
- Critical containment structures – Used where absolute water-tightness is essential.
- Water treatment facilities – Ensures long-term resistance to chemical exposure and waterborne contaminants.
Labyrinth waterstops are best suited for vertical joints but can be challenging to install in horizontal applications due to their complex profile
How do I ensure my waterstop remains in place during concrete placement?
Proper securing of the waterstop is essential to prevent displacement and misalignment during concrete pours. Sika Greenstreak PVC Waterstops should be:
Tied to adjacent rebar using one of the following methods: Pre-punched holes – Found on ribbed profiles for easy attachment. Brass grommets – Provide additional reinforcement at tie points. Hog rings – Securely fastened at 12-inch intervals to prevent shifting.
Fully embedded within the joint to ensure maximum bond strength and waterproofing performance.
Properly aligned to avoid folds or air pockets that could compromise sealing effectiveness.
How do I prevent damage to my waterstop during concrete placement?
To ensure the waterstop remains intact and effective do not overwork the concrete around the waterstop — excessive vibration can cause movement or voids. Make sure to use proper consolidation techniques to eliminate air pockets and ensure full embedment. And keep the waterstop clean and free of debris before pouring concrete.
Following these guidelines ensures a watertight seal that will last the lifetime of the structure.
Can waterstops be used in extreme temperature conditions?
Yes! Sika Greenstreak PVC Waterstops are tested for low-temperature brittleness at -35°F (-37°C) and offer high durability in extreme environmental conditions. In Cold climates, the PVC remains flexible and resistant to cracking. In High heat the PVC retains structural integrity in industrial applications and exposed environments.