Waterstop Systems for Concrete Joints (PVC, TPV, Stainless Steel and Hydrophilic Waterstops) Used in Water, Wastewater, Containment, and Infrastructure Projects
Since 1954, J P Specialties has been the global leader in manufacturing the Earth Shield® line of PVC and TPV waterstops, renowned for their superior quality and performance. We provide a wide array of waterstop systems and related waterstop accessories for concrete joints, all supported by exceptional technical expertise and customer service. Our key markets include: water and wastewater treatment plants, containment systems, tunnels, and infrastructure.
The Waterstop Experts™
PVC waterstops are one of the most widely used solutions for sealing construction joints, expansion joints, and contraction joints in concrete structures. Designed to act as a continuous fluid-tight barrier, PVC waterstops are embedded within the concrete to prevent water infiltration and protect structural integrity.
Earth Shield® PVC waterstops are manufactured from high-quality virgin polyvinyl chloride and are engineered to provide long-term durability, flexibility, and resistance to water and wastewater treatment chemicals. These systems are ideal for applications such as wastewater treatment plants, reservoirs, tunnels, and below-grade structures where reliable joint sealing is critical.
Engineered Waterstop Solutions for Water, Wastewater Treatment, Containment Systems, Tunnels, and Infrastructure Projects
Waterstop plays a critical role in the integrity of concrete structures, providing a fluid-tight diaphragm when embedded in, running through, and along concrete joints. Waterstops are mandatory components used in concrete construction to prevent water or fluid infiltration through concrete control, construction, and expansion joints. At J P Specialties, we manufacture high-performance waterstop systems that deliver long-term durability, chemical resistance, and watertight integrity in demanding environments. Earth Shield® waterstops are used worldwide by major engineering firms and project owners for chemical containment, water and wastewater treatment, fuel resistance, and ozone contactor structures. J P Specialties also manufactures a complete line of high-quality waterstop installation tools and accessories. We invented the tools and technology to thermo-weld plastic (PVC, TPV, HDPE) waterstops (U.S. Patent Number 4,867,835).
J P Specialties, Inc. is a trusted leader in manufacturing high-quality thermoplastic (PVC, TPV), rubber (MCR), and metallic (stainless steel) waterstops for fluid proofing concrete joints. With decades of experience, we are committed to innovation, excellence, and strict industry standards. Our dedication to research, quality, and customer-focused service ensures reliable and durable products for critical projects. We are known for integrity and technical expertise. We prioritize transparency, long-term relationships, and environmental compliance. Whether for infrastructure, environmental protection, or commercial or industrial construction, J P Specialties delivers dependable solutions that you can trust.
Selecting the correct waterstop system is critical to ensuring long-term watertight performance in concrete structures. Different project conditions—including joint type, water exposure, and chemical environment—require specific materials and designs to prevent leakage and structural damage.
For standard construction and expansion joints, PVC waterstops provide a reliable and cost-effective solution with excellent flexibility and durability. In environments exposed to aggressive chemicals or hydrocarbons, TPV waterstops offer enhanced resistance and long-term performance. For applications where active sealing is required, such as cold joints, hydrophilic waterstops expand upon contact with water to create a tight, self-sealing barrier.
Engineers and contractors must also consider factors such as joint movement, hydrostatic pressure, and installation conditions when selecting a waterstop. Proper product selection, combined with correct installation, ensures optimal performance in demanding applications such as wastewater treatment plants, secondary containment systems, tunnels, and below-grade structures.
At J P Specialties, we provide not only a full range of waterstop products, but also expert technical support to help you determine the best solution for your specific project requirements.
J P Specialties, Inc. is a trusted leader in manufacturing high-quality thermoplastic (PVC, TPV), rubber (MCR), and metallic (stainless steel) waterstops for fluid proofing concrete joints. With decades of experience, we are committed to innovation, excellence, and strict industry standards. Our dedication to research, quality, and customer-focused service ensures reliable and durable products for critical projects. We are known for integrity and technical expertise. We prioritize transparency, long-term relationships, and environmental compliance. Whether for infrastructure, environmental protection, or commercial or industrial construction, J P Specialties delivers dependable solutions that you can trust.
Choosing the Right Waterstop System for Your Project
Selecting the correct waterstop system is critical to ensuring long-term watertight performance in concrete structures. Different project conditions—including joint type, water exposure, and chemical environment—require specific materials and designs to prevent leakage and structural damage.
For standard construction and expansion joints, PVC waterstops provide a reliable and cost-effective solution with excellent flexibility and durability. In environments exposed to aggressive chemicals or hydrocarbons, TPV waterstops offer enhanced resistance and long-term performance. For applications where active sealing is required, such as cold joints, hydrophilic waterstops expand upon contact with water to create a tight, self-sealing barrier.
Engineers and contractors must also consider factors such as joint movement, hydrostatic pressure, and installation conditions when selecting a waterstop. Proper product selection, combined with correct installation, ensures optimal performance in demanding applications such as wastewater treatment plants, secondary containment systems, tunnels, and below-grade structures.
At J P Specialties, we provide not only a full range of waterstop products, but also expert technical support to help you determine the best solution for your specific project requirements.
SUSTAINABLE
RECYCLABLE
NSF 61 & 372 CERTIFIED
CA PROP 65 COMPLIANT
ACI 350 CERTIFIED
USACE (CRD C-572) CERTIFIED
USACE (CEGS 03250) CERTIFIED
AIA APPROVED CONTINUING EDUCATION
MADE IN USA
VETERAN OWNED
WINNER OF THE 2024 WORLD OF CONCRETE MOST INNOVATIVE PRODUCT AWARD
ON-STAFF WATERSTOP EXPERTS
Earth Shield® Thermoplastic Vulcanizate Waterstop (TPV [aka TPE-R]) dramatically expands the scope of conventional waterstop by offering unmatched chemical resistance to a broad spectrum of aggressive chemicals, solvents, and hot petroleum oils. Manufactured NSF 61-certified, EPA-compliant waterstop profiles are available for new construction and retrofit.
Earth Shield® Polyvinyl Chloride Waterstop (PVC) is the perfect solution for most water and wastewater applications. Earth Shield® PVC Waterstop is manufactured from prime virgin resin and is the trusted choice for environmentally engineered concrete structures. CRD C572-74 compliant and NSF 61 certified waterstop profiles for new construction and retrofit applications.
Earth Shield® Stainless Steel Waterstop can stop even the most corrosive fluids in their tracks, even at severely elevated temperatures. A variety of metals, grades, and gauges are available. Earth Shield® utilizes 20 gauge 316 low carbon as our standard alloy, which offers broad-spectrum corrosion resistance to most aggressive media, and is virtually untouched by the deleterious effects of ozone, making it an ideal choice for ozone contactor structures used in modern water treatment plants.
Earth Shield® Type NB190® is a modern, hydrophilic chloroprene rubber waterstop with unmatched durability and water sealing capabilities. Manufactured NON-BENTONITE, modified chloroprene rubber, Type NB190® more than doubles its original size (400% in 36 days) when exposed to water. Type NB190® can expand and re-expand unlimited times with virtually no loss of physical properties. Additionally, Type NB190® has excellent resistance to many chemicals, is heat-resistant, and is NSF 61-certified safe for drinking water.
"We don't just sell a product, we provide solutions."Faith Moreno
Earth Shield® NSF 61-certified waterstops are designed to meet strict performance requirements and regulations, which helps ensure critical structures remain safe, fluid-tight, and stable throughout their lifespan. By choosing the appropriate waterstop design and installation methods, engineers can effectively handle the challenges related to concrete joint sealing and contribute to the long-term success of their projects. Contact our technical engineering team for help with specifications and detailing.
J P Specialties, Inc.
Free Services Include:
Free Services Include:
- Complete plan takeoff and waterstop map.
- 3D isometric waterstop details (for every fitting in the print).
- Fast jobsite delivery.
- Exclusive waterstop site pickup and recycling services.
- Waterstop welding certification course for the contractor installing the Earth Shield® waterstop.
- Accredited online and in-office continuing education webinars and seminars for engineers and architects.
Company president, David R. Poole, demonstrates proper waterstop welding at a jobsite.
About J P Specialties, Inc. (manufacturer of Earth Shield® waterstop)
Since 1954, J P Specialties has been at the forefront of manufacturing the Earth Shield® line of waterstops, known for their exceptional quality and performance. We offer a comprehensive range of waterstops and accessories, backed by unparalleled technical support and service.
Industry Leadership
Our technical team includes leaders who serve as officers on multiple ACI committees, demonstrating our commitment to excellence in engineering. We are proud to be the first waterstop manufacturer to achieve NSF 61 certification, setting the standard for quality and safety in the industry. Additionally, our owner, David Poole, authored The Little Book of Waterstop, the definitive guide widely used by professionals in the construction sector.
Professional Development
J P Specialties is dedicated to advancing industry knowledge through our popular AIA-accredited seminar. This seminar, available nationally, internationally, and online, provides one-hour CEU credits and has been attended by thousands of architects, engineers, contractors, and owners.
Contractor Support
We are committed to supporting contractors with competitive pricing, extensive inventories, and customized factory fabrications for both standard and custom waterstop fittings. Our comprehensive training programs include on-site and online waterstop welding schools, where attendees are certified in proper waterstop welding techniques.
Since 1954, J P Specialties has been at the forefront of manufacturing the Earth Shield® line of waterstops, known for their exceptional quality and performance. We offer a comprehensive range of waterstops and accessories, backed by unparalleled technical support and service.
Industry Leadership
Our technical team includes leaders who serve as officers on multiple ACI committees, demonstrating our commitment to excellence in engineering. We are proud to be the first waterstop manufacturer to achieve NSF 61 certification, setting the standard for quality and safety in the industry. Additionally, our owner, David Poole, authored The Little Book of Waterstop, the definitive guide widely used by professionals in the construction sector.
Professional Development
J P Specialties is dedicated to advancing industry knowledge through our popular AIA-accredited seminar. This seminar, available nationally, internationally, and online, provides one-hour CEU credits and has been attended by thousands of architects, engineers, contractors, and owners.
Contractor Support
We are committed to supporting contractors with competitive pricing, extensive inventories, and customized factory fabrications for both standard and custom waterstop fittings. Our comprehensive training programs include on-site and online waterstop welding schools, where attendees are certified in proper waterstop welding techniques.
"Water is our most valuable commodity. It is important to protect it, either from loss or pollution. Properly installed waterstop achieves both goals."David R. Poole