Leaks around Pipes : Waterproofing & Preventing Water Ingress in Concrete Structures

Leaks around pipes or pipe penetrations is a common cause of internal moisture damage in concrete walls and slabs. These leaks often occur when cracks develop during drilling or when original sealants degrade over time. Without proper waterproofing, these openings allow water to seep through, leading to serious issues like mould, corrosion, rot, and long-term structural damage.

At Stop & Seal, we specialise in advanced waterproofing solutions for concrete structures. Using SNSeal High-Pressure Injectable Sealant, we effectively seal voids and address leaks around pipes, preventing water ingress and extending the life of your structure.

What Causes Water Ingress Around Pipe Penetrations?

When a pipe, service riser, electrical conduit, or air duct is installed in a building, it enters and exits through concrete walls or slabs. These penetrations may be sealed with a cement-based water plug or patch from the interior side of the building during initial construction as a temporary measure. Over time, the bond to the concrete usually fails, allowing water to seep around the pipe penetration.

Pipe penetrations are sometimes classified as “weak points”. If there is rising water due to hydrostatic pressure, the pipe penetrations may become the path of least resistance for water to enter or exit, leading to leaks around pipes.

Dangers of Inadequate Waterproofing

If pipe penetrations are not properly waterproofed, it can lead to leaks around pipes as well as consequental issues that can be harmful to both the slab and the pipe itself, not to mention the people inside.

The results of inadequate waterproofing can include:

• Persistent leaks and water damage
• Mould and mildew growth
• Deterioration of concrete and surrounding materials
• Corrosion of metal pipes or reinforcements
• Increased repair and remediation costs

Signs of Leaks around Pipes

Early detection is key. See the images below to spot common signs of water ingress around pipe penetrations:

Common signs of water ingress or leaks around pipe penetrations include:

• Water stains or damp patches near pipe entry points
• Efflorescence (white mineral deposits on concrete)
• Peeling paint or surface deterioration
• A musty smell or visible mould growth
• Water pooling after heavy rain

Our Waterproofing Process for Pipe Penetrations

At Stop & Seal, we follow a precise method to permanently stop leaks and water ingress around pipe penetrations no matter the location be it in a carpark, basement, pump room, tunnel, service cupboard/utility room/storage room.

These are the steps we take:

Step 1: Inspection of Area

We remove all failed sealant, efflorescence, and surface debris to expose the full leak path.

Step 2: Remove Pipe Collars

We take off any collars to gain clear access to the junction between pipe and slab or wall.

Step 3: Apply Polyurethane Sealant

A flexible, high-performance sealant is applied to create a first barrier.

Step 4: Inject SNSeal High-Pressure Sealant

Our technicians inject SNSeal Injectable Sealant into injection points to seal the voids.

Step 5: Membrane Application*

Two coats of waterproofing membrane are applied around the penetration to reinforce the seal and protect the surface.

*In some cases it may be necessary to apply a membrane around the pipe penetrations for added protection against leaks around pipes.