Sika Sika Greenstreak 581 PVC Retrofit System

The Sika Greenstreak 581 PVC Retrofit Waterstop System is a proven joint sealing solution engineered specifically to waterproof construction joints where new concrete meets existing concrete structures. Whether you’re working on a rehabilitation project, an infrastructure expansion, or a new containment system tied into an older structure, the 581 delivers the watertight performance required for long-term structural integrity.

This flexible PVC retrofit waterstop profile features a stainless steel batten bar anchoring system, secured firmly to the existing concrete face using mechanical fasteners and a compatible structural epoxy gel. This combination of mechanical and adhesive bonding creates a continuous, watertight diaphragm across the joint — preventing fluid migration even under sustained hydrostatic pressure.

At just 1.51 lb/ft, the 581 is one of the most compact and lightweight retrofit waterstop profiles available, making it an ideal choice for projects where space constraints or tight joint clearances are a factor. Despite its low-profile design, it delivers the same high-performance waterproofing expected in critical applications such as water treatment plants, wastewater facilities, underground containment structures, below-grade foundations, and tunnel construction.

For contractors and engineers seeking a dependable, easy-to-install PVC retrofit waterstop solution that doesn’t sacrifice performance for convenience, the Sika Greenstreak 581 is a trusted choice across municipal, industrial, and civil infrastructure projects.

Key Features

The Sika Greenstreak 581 is purpose-built for retrofit waterstop applications, specifically designed to create a watertight seal at construction joints where new concrete is poured against an existing concrete structure. The system includes a stainless steel batten bar and anchor bolts that mechanically fasten the PVC profile securely to the existing concrete face, ensuring the waterstop stays firmly in position throughout the concrete placement process.

A compatible structural epoxy gel is used in conjunction with the mechanical anchoring system to achieve a complete, watertight bond between the waterstop and the existing substrate. This dual-method installation — combining mechanical fastening with epoxy adhesion — is what sets retrofit waterstop systems apart from standard embedded profiles and ensures long-term joint sealing performance.

At 1.51 lb/ft with hardware included, the 581 offers a lightweight, low-profile footprint without compromising waterproofing integrity. Factory-fabricated fittings and components are strongly recommended for transitions and intersections, as they significantly reduce the risk of field weld errors and help maintain a continuous, reliable watertight barrier throughout the joint system.

The 581 retrofit waterstop is well-suited for a wide range of critical infrastructure applications, including water treatment facilities, wastewater treatment plants, below-grade containment structures, storage tanks, and tunnel construction — anywhere long-term waterproofing at a retrofit joint is required.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Sika Greenstreak 581 retrofit waterstop typically used? The 581 is used in retrofit waterproofing applications where new concrete is being poured against or tied into an existing concrete structure. Common applications include containment walls, water treatment basins, wastewater facility upgrades, below-grade foundations, underground vaults, and any infrastructure project requiring long-term joint waterproofing between old and new concrete.

What epoxy is recommended with the 581 system? Sika recommends using Sika 7300 structural epoxy gel as the bonding agent for this retrofit waterstop system. The epoxy works in combination with the stainless steel batten bar and anchor bolts to create a fully bonded, watertight seal against the existing concrete face. Using a compatible, high-strength structural epoxy is critical to achieving the full waterproofing performance of the system.

Can the 581 be used for moving joints? Yes. The 581 retrofit waterstop system is suitable for joints that experience limited movement. When properly installed with the correct mechanical anchoring hardware and structural epoxy, the flexible PVC profile can accommodate minor joint movement while maintaining a continuous watertight seal. For joints expected to experience significant movement, consult with a Sika technical representative to confirm the appropriate product selection.

Is factory fabrication available for the 581 system? Yes, and it is strongly recommended. Factory-fabricated fittings, transitions, and intersections are pre-made under controlled conditions, which significantly reduces the likelihood of field weld errors that can compromise the integrity of the waterstop system. Whenever possible, specify factory fabrications to ensure the highest level of waterproofing performance throughout the joint layout.

How is the 581 retrofit waterstop installed? Installation begins by preparing the existing concrete surface to ensure it is clean, sound, and free of debris. The structural epoxy gel is applied to the contact face, and the PVC waterstop profile is positioned over the joint. The stainless steel batten bar is then placed over the waterstop flange and anchored to the existing concrete using the included anchor bolts, compressing the profile firmly against the substrate. New concrete is then poured to encapsulate the remaining portion of the waterstop, completing the watertight joint.

What makes the 581 different from a standard embedded PVC waterstop? Unlike traditional PVC waterstops that are embedded in both pours of concrete during new construction, the 581 is a retrofit system designed for situations where one side of the joint already exists as hardened concrete. The mechanical anchoring system and structural epoxy allow the waterstop to be securely fastened to the existing structure before the new concrete is placed, making it the correct solution for repair, rehabilitation, and expansion projects.

Is the Sika Greenstreak 581 suitable for potable water applications? For potable water contact requirements, verify certification details with Sika technical documentation or consult a Sika representative. Many Sika Greenstreak PVC waterstop products meet NSF/ANSI Standard 61 for potable water applications, and the appropriate product should always be confirmed for water treatment and drinking water infrastructure projects.

What is the shelf life and storage requirement for the 581 waterstop? PVC waterstop material should be stored away from direct sunlight and in conditions that prevent deformation prior to installation. Proper storage helps maintain the material’s flexibility and performance characteristics until it is ready to be installed in the field.