Q. Coatings at the back faces of abutments?

There are many views on the necessity of application of protective coatings (can be in the form of two coats of paint) to the back faces of bridge abutment. The main function of this coating serves to provide waterproofing effect to the back faces of abutments. By decreasing the seepage of water through the concrete, amount of dirty materials accumulating on the surface of concrete will be significantly decreased. Engineers are likely to consider this as an inexpensive method to provide extra protection to concrete. But others may consider that such provision is a waste of money and isn't worthwhile to spend extra money on this. 

Fig. Coatings at back faces of an abutment.