Key Takeaways:
Pipe and cable penetrations are major weak points for air and water leaks.
High groundwater pressure easily pushes conventional foams out of basement joints.
Aquaswell is a water-reactive sealant that swells to create a watertight barrier.
Standard expanding foams are perfect for filling dry surrounding voids and insulating gaps.
Sealing and Insulating Pipe Penetrations
Pipe and cable penetrations are common points for air and water leakage. Water infiltration in basements causes severe structural damage. Unsealed tube and cable penetrations are a major source of these leaks. High groundwater exerts massive pressure against your walls. This pressure easily flushes conventional expanding foam out of the pipe. You need a specialist sealant where contact with water is expected.
The Aquaswell Advantage
Aquaswell is our high-performance polyurethane pipe and cable sealant. It reacts and swells up when it contacts water. This swelling action creates a permanent water and gas-tight seal that withstands up to 5 bar of pressure. It provides brilliant adhesion on concrete, metal, and PVC pipes. This makes it the ultimate defence against rising groundwater in basements and underground ducts.
For general dry areas, expanding foams help close surrounding voids. Our Australian range includes products for every application size. Use these foams to insulate the gaps around pipes and prevent cold draughts from entering your home. If structural movement is a concern, Flexible Insulation Expanding Foam absorbs the shift without cracking. For static gaps, choose between our standard Gap Filling Expanding Foam, the handy Gap Filling Expanding Foam – Straw, or Gap Filling Expanding Foam – Gun Grade for trade-scale volume.
Ready to start your project? Use our Store Locator to find your nearest Soudal stockist and grab the right pipe sealing tools today.
FAQs
What is Aquaswell?
Aquaswell is a specialised polyurethane sealant. It swells up when exposed to moisture to create a completely watertight and gas-tight barrier around pipes and cables.
Can standard expanding foam hold back water?
No. High groundwater pressure will eventually crush or flush conventional expanding foam out of the joint. You must use a water-reactive sealant like Aquaswell for areas exposed to water pressure.
How much pressure can Aquaswell withstand?
Once fully cured and swollen, Aquaswell withstands up to 5 bar of water and gas pressure. This is more than enough for standard basement and underground duct applications.
Does Aquaswell bond to PVC pipes?
Yes. It has excellent adhesion to most building materials. It bonds strongly to concrete, most metals, and standard PVC plumbing pipes.