Do your light poles have Dry Pack? Dry pack, also known as “Non-shrink Grout”, is simply concrete under the base plate of the light pole, above the top of the footing. Dry pack seals in water making it one of the top causes for poles to rust and fail prematurely. Even the best sealed poles build up condensation. Our team along with Acuity Brands, Valmont, and Hubbell agree that dry pack needs proper drainage, normally a hole or gap giving water or condensation an escape route. When replacing light poles, dry pack should be removed. For existing poles, a water drainage hole should be drilled into the dry pack. If poles have been found with dry pack and without drainage, it is an indicator that the poles may be rusted and should be inspected promptly to prevent future hazards.