Rubber dams are divided into two types: water-filled and air-filled. Water-filled dams take longer to inflate and deflate than air-filled dams. In terms of cost, the two types are similar. The application conditions of rubber dams are similar to those of sluice gates, but compared with conventional sluice gates, they have the following characteristics:
First, lower cost. Investment can be reduced by 30%–70%, saving 30%–50% on steel, about 50% on cement, and over 60% on timber.
Second, shorter construction period. Dam bags can be installed in just 3–15 days, and most rubber dam projects benefit from construction within the same year.
Third, the dam body is a flexible, soft-shell structure, capable of resisting impacts from earthquakes and waves, with good water-stopping effect, large span, and no obstruction of water during the flood season, making it suitable for urban landscaping.
Fourth, less maintenance and easier management. The service life of rubber dam bags is generally 15–25 years.