EXPANSION JOINT REPLACEMENT AND REPAIR: CAUSES AND EFFECTS

What is expansion joint?

An expansion joint is usually placed on structures such as bridges, highways and sidewalks. It is a mid-structure separation to absorb vibration, join objects, or allow movement. Expansion joint is necessary to allow for the natural expansion and contraction that occurs from temperature changes. Without these joints, concrete can crack or distort, creating costly damage.

Why are expansion joint repairs necessary?

It is crucial to repair the expansion joint once you detect cracked joints on it. This is because further cracking can be occurred not just in the joints, but in the concrete floor itself if you fail to repair it on time.

Additionally, it is costly and time-consuming to replace the cracked concrete slabs rather than replacement of expansion joints in concrete.

When to repair the cracked expansion joint?

You should repair the cracked expansion joint as soon as you’re aware of the problem. The cracked expansion joint is not a sudden event that occur immediately but it cracks slowly throughout the time. What are the signs to trigger your attention for repairing expansion joint?

Hairline cracks developing into larger caverns
Pieces of expansion joint material beginning to loosen and dislodge
Discoloration and water retention during regular cleanups

You should decide what action to take rather than whether you should take any action. Questions to ask yourself: –

Repair the existing expansion joint? or
Remove the existing expansion joint and replace with the right product?

Therefore, it is important to make the right choice and get the best professionals in the concrete expansion joint repair and installation. This is why Structural Repairs (M) Sdn Bhd is your best choice for both replacing and repairing your expansion joints.

What are the long-term benefits of the expansion joint?

If the expansion joint is maintained in the good condition, the long-term benefits of expansion joints include: –

Peak Performance: It allows the concrete slabs to expand and contract naturally. There will be no damage from bending or breaking.
Economic Return: If the expansion joint is repaired or replaced correctly, the joints should give you long years of service without any further cost incur.
Superior Safety: If the expansion joints are repair or replaced professionally, it can minimize tripping hazards.
Low Maintenance: If the expansion joint is installed, repaired or replaced by a professional company that specializes in expansion joint work, you’ll definitely lower your maintenance work in the long term.

How to maintain expansion joint in good condition?

In order to maintain the expansion joint in good conditions, the following precautions should be taken into account, including: –

Cleaning: Keep dirt and debris out of your expansion joints. Expansion joint can crack if the moisture of the debris seeps into your expansion joints.
Drying: Don’t allow standing water to remain on your expansion joints for too long.
Weeds and plant growth: Remove the weeds and plants growing in your expansion joints immediately. Their roots can damage the expansion joint.

How to repair the expansion joint? With project reference

I. RECTIFICATION OF DRIVEWAY EXPANSION JOINT AT CONTESSA CONDOMINIUM, BANGSAR

STEP 1: Exposure of expansion joint & surface preparation work

STEP 2: Installation of expansion joint system

STEP 3: Application of polyurea waterproofing coating system on the expansion joint

STEP 4: Making good of finishing

II. RECTIFICATION WORKS FOR EXPANSION JOINT REPAIR, SEB OFFICE, NORTH WING, FACING ROAD FOR SAPURA RESOURCES BERHAD

STEP 1: Dismantling of the existing chequered plate

STEP 2: Hacking and removal of the existing screeds along the leaking expansion joint

STEP 3: Prepared expansion joint prior to installation of new expansion joint system

STEP 4: Installation of new expansion joint system

STEP 5: Completed installation of new expansion joint system

STEP 6: Completed re-screeding work

Key Takeaways

Expansion joint replacement and repair should be attended by professional company. If you do not have the right knowledge, materials and tools to fix the failing expansion joint, it can give you unnecessary costs and damage. Different expansion joint problems require different solving methods. It is advised to hire a professional company to identify the correct method to repair or replace the expansion joint. Consequently, this can save the cost and prevent further damage.

We, Structural Repairs (M) Sdn Bhd is dedicated to safety, quality, and performance. We have the solutions to solve your expansion joint problem with 30 years of experience in the industry. For expert concrete expansion joint repair, contact us today!

Kindly visit to our website at https://structuralrepairs.com.my/ or contact us at Tel: 603-91731728/29