What is Hydrostatic Pressure in Concrete? Eventually, the water will accumulate to the point that it will exert hydrostatic pressure on the foundation walls.

Hydrostatic water pressure will intensify in areas with naturally high soil saturation levels, like those near ponds or creeks. Capillary action refers to water’s ability to flow into narrow channels between porous building products, like concrete, acting like tubes due to adhesive and cohesive forces interacting between the liquid and the surface, without the assistance of gravity. Rising groundwater creates hydrostatic pressure on foundation walls, causing moisture to infiltrate through cracks and joints and permeate solid concrete through capillary action (wicking). Hydrostatic pressure increases with depth and soil wetness. What is a straightforward hydrostatic pressure definition? Hydrostatic pressure occurs when gravity pushes stagnant-dense (static) water (hydro) against below-grade walls built partially or entirely below the water table or on a hillside.

Hydrostatic pressure protection will limit moisture infiltration and significantly contribute to a home’s or building’s long-term integrity, safety, and health.

The consequences of hydrostatic water pressure on unprotected below-grade walls can lead to significant structural damage, unhealthy mold, and pest (carpenter ants and termites) infestation.įortunately, Poly Wall® Building Solutions (a division of Polyguard ) offers durable, flexible, temperature, pest, and chemical-resistant foundation waterproofing products that can protect against hydrostatic pressure. You can simply define hydrostatic pressure as resting water exerting a load on an adjacent solid entity, like a concrete foundation wall. When it comes to building science, hydrostatic pressure plays a vital role in designing and constructing any structure, particularly regarding the waterproofing systems for below-grade walls.

Hydrostatic force on side of tank