Concrete Expansion Joints (2024)

Minimize Concrete Cracking and Damage with Expansion Joints

NEW FROM W. R. MEADOWS – X-FOAM

X-FOAM expansion joint filler is a flexible, lightweight, non-staining, polypropylene, closed-cell expansion joint filler. It is a chemical-resistant, ultraviolet stable, non-absorbent, low density, cost-effective, compressible foam that offers an extended service life in both interior and exterior applications.

X-FOAM is ideal for use as an expansion, contraction, and/or isolation joint in swimming pool decks, curb and gutter work, floor slabs, pavement patch repair, sidewalks, driveways, plazas, parking decks, highways, and airport runways. The use of X-FOAM expansion joint combined with proper sealing and joint design per American Concrete Institute guidelines can help reduce unwanted cracking and early joint edge deterioration.

X-FOAM is available in thicknesses of ½”, 1″, and ¾”.

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EXPANSION JOINTS
EXPANSION <—> CONTRACTION

DESCRIPTION
ASPHALT EXPANSION JOINT is composed of a blend of asphalts, vegetable fibers, and mineral fillers formed under heat and pressure between two asphalt-saturated liners. It is waterproof, permanent, flexible, and self-sealing.

FIBRE EXPANSION JOINT is composed of cellular fibers securely bonded together and uniformly saturated with asphalt to assure longevity. FIBRE EXPANSION JOINT is versatile, resilient, flexible, and non-extruding. When compressed to half of its original thickness, it will recover to a minimum of 70% of its original thickness.

CERAMAR® flexible foam expansion joint filler is composed of a unique blend of isomeric polymers in a very small, closed-cell structure. Gray in color, CERAMAR is a lightweight, highly flexible, and resilient material offering recovery qualities of over 99%. This mini closed-cell structure is virtually non-absorbent. It can be wrapped or formed around curved or circular surfaces.

SPONGE RUBBER EXPANSION JOINT is produced to a uniform thickness and density from gray-colored, top-quality, blown sponge rubber. It is easily compressed and has a recovery of 95% or more of the original thickness and a density of not less than 30 pounds per cubic foot (480.56 kg per cubic meter).

X-FOAM expansion joint filler is a flexible, lightweight, non-staining, polypropylene, closed-cell expansion joint filler. It is a chemical-resistant, ultraviolet stable, non-absorbent, low density, cost-effective, compressible foam that offers an extended service life in both interior and exterior applications.

CORK EXPANSION JOINT is produced from clean, selected, granulated cork bonded with a phenolic resin. It is highly resilient, will compress without extrusion, and recovers to 95% of its original thickness after 50% compression.

SELF-EXPANDING CORK EXPANSION JOINT is formed and compressed under heat and pressure to permit expansion up to 140% of original thickness after installation, which allows the filler to compensate for concrete shrinkage. Normal humidity conditions after installation activate the self-expanding properties of the cork. Product may be cut on jobsite to exact size required.

Featured Expansion Joints

Infrastructure / Concrete Expansion Joints Video

PACKAGING
See specification data and size information chart on page 2 for details.

MINIMIZE STRESS DAMAGE AND ENHANCE THE PERFORMANCE CAPABILITIES OF CONCRETE WITH PROPER JOINTING TECHNIQUES TO ACCOMMODATE EXPANSION-CONTRACTION CYCLES.
Concrete expands and contracts with temperature and moisture changes. As the temperature rises or the moisture content of the concrete increases, expansion takes place. As the temperature drops, the concrete will contract. The provision to accommodate movement at predetermined locations with proper joint applications prevents the development of stresses that could rupture the concrete.

Joint type and spacing will vary with each project according to the kind of structure, climatic conditions, and anticipated stresses in the concrete. The coefficient of thermal expansion in concrete is 0.0000055 per linear inch of concrete per degree Fahrenheit of temperature change, yielding approximately .66 inch of movement per 100 feet with a 100° F (38° C) temperature range. To estimate expansion, multiply the length in inches x number of degrees of anticipated temperature differential x 0.0000055. Use the resulting anticipated movement to determine the correct thickness of the control joint and proper spacing for placement of the joint. Thinner joints (1/4″, 3/8″, or 1/2″) (6.35 mm, 9.53 mm, or 12.7 mm) spaced at frequent intervals offer greater control than thicker joints spaced at greater intervals. The basic concept is to provide ample room for the concrete to expand and contract without creating damaging stresses and resultant cracking.

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USES
ASPHALT EXPANSION JOINT can be used in 80% of all control joint applications. It is ideally suited for joints in sidewalks, driveways, streets, and single- and multi-level floor slabs. Due to its unique self-sealing characteristic, no subsequent joint sealing is required.

FIBRE EXPANSION JOINT is ideal for use on highways, streets, airport runways, sidewalks, driveways, flatwork, and scores of commercial and industrial applications. To isolate filler from sealant, use SNAP-CAP® from W. R. MEADOWS. Seal with #164, HI-SPEC® or SOF-SEAL® from W. R. MEADOWS for maximum protection from water infiltration, weathering, and to assure proper performance.

CERAMAR flexible foam expansion joint is gray in color and provides an excellent joint filler and backup material for use in either horizontal or vertical applications where expansion and contraction movements must be accommodated. CERAMAR is compatible with all currently popular cold-applied sealants, caulks, and hot-pour joint sealing compounds. It is lightweight, highly flexible, and easy to cut or form in the field without waste. CERAMAR compresses easily for use with shrinkage-compensating concrete, and it may be used to relieve stress and pressure in concrete pavements.

HIGHLY FUNCTIONAL JOINTING AND SEALING SYSTEM: CERAMAR horizontal sealant from W. R. MEADOWS may be used to provide an excellent horizontal sealing system for plaza decks, sidewalks, driveways, and commercial and industrial floors.

SPONGE RUBBER EXPANSION JOINT is frequently used on bridge structures and sewage treatment plants that undergo rapid changes in temperature. Because of its excellent recovery capability during wide temperature variations, SPONGE RUBBER EXPANSION JOINT is used around supporting pillars, drains, hydrants, and lamp and signposts, as well as in isolation applications or between materials having dissimilar coefficients of expansion.

X-FOAM is ideal for use as an expansion, contraction, and/or isolation joint in swimming pool decks, curb and gutter work, floor slabs, pavement patch repair, sidewalks, driveways, plazas, parking decks, highways, and airport runways. The use of X-FOAM expansion joint combined with proper sealing and joint design per American Concrete Institute guidelines can help reduce unwanted cracking and early joint edge deterioration.

CORK EXPANSION JOINT and SELF-EXPANDING CORK EXPANSION JOINT are used where high resiliency is needed, such as in sewage plants, floodwalls, spillways, filtration plants, and numerous commercial and industrial applications. SELF-EXPANDING CORK EXPANSION JOINT is especially desirable where a constant friction-fit is required.

FEATURES/BENEFITS
ASPHALT EXPANSION JOINT

• Non-absorbing.
• Used in 80% of all control joint situations.
• Protects against water infiltration.
• Self-sealing.
• Permanent.

FIBRE EXPANSION JOINT

• Non-extruding … versatile … offers a minimum of 70% recovery after compression.
• A tough, lightweight, easy-to-use, semi-rigid joint filler available in strips and shapes fabricated to most requirements.
• Easy to cut … dimensionally stable … not sticky in summer or brittle in winter.
• Manufactured in the U.S.A.
• Proven field performance.

CERAMAR

• Gray color
• Lightweight, flexible foam … forms or wraps around curved or circular surfaces.
• Cuts easily on the job with a razor knife … no breakage or waste.
• Offers high resiliency and 99% recovery qualities … low compression values … non-extruding … virtually non-absorbent.
• Resists ultraviolet degradation.
• Non-impregnated … no staining or bleeding.
• Bonds easily with common cartridge adhesives.
• Non-gassing.
• Compatible with all hot- or cold-applied sealants.

SPONGE RUBBER EXPANSION JOINT, CORK EXPANSION JOINT and SELF-EXPANDING CORK EXPANSION JOINT

• High resiliency with excellent recovery after compression.
• Protects against water infiltration when properly sealed.
• Easy to handle and install.
• Offers isolation capabilities.

X-FOAM

• Flexible, lightweight, and can be formed around curved objects.
• Easy to carry.
• Easy to install.
• Can be used in interior or exterior applications.
• May be easily scored with a razor tool to create a void forPOURTHANE_®orDECK-O-SEAL®

EXPANSION JOINT SPECIFICATION DATA AND SIZE INFORMATION

*Pre-cut joint furnished in any desired width

Plastic Expansion Joint Materials

SPEED-E-JOINT_®, DECK-O-JOINT_®, SNAP CAP_®, KEYWAY_™

SPEED-E-JOINT
Preformed Contraction Joint
SPEED-E-JOINT consists of two solid pieces that have been pre-assembled for easy handling and installation.

SPEED-E-JOINT offers an ideal solution to controlling cracks in concrete. It is a rigid preformed contraction joint that produces a straight-line crack on the surface of concrete slabs and locks into the aggregate just below the surface. SPEED-E-JOINT is strong, economical and eliminates waste in providing straight lines. It is quick and easy to install. The top section pulls free once the joint has been placed correctly in the wet concrete.

Furnished in three depths: 1″, 1 ½” and 2″ (25.4 mm, 38.1mm and 50.8mm). Standard length is 10′ (3.05 m).

DECK-O-JOINT
PVC Expansion Joint
DECK-O-JOINT is a decorative expansion joint for use wherever concrete is placed. It is economical, long lasting and trouble-free. DECK-O-JOINT resists acids, alkali, chlorine, etc. A light hose down keeps it bright and clean.

DECK-O-JOINT will not whip or warp during application. It locks into concrete and adjusts for any slab movement. DECK-O-JOINT’s exclusive channel design prevents excessive seepage and water damage. Colors: Stone Gray, Desert Tan and Dura-White.

KEYWAY
PVC Tongue and Groove Joint Form
KEYWAY is lightweight, flexible and an easy way to mold a keyed tongue and groove construction joint. KEYWAY resists impact and will not whip or warp. It strips quickly and can be reused or left in place.

SNAP-CAP
Expansion Joint Cap
SNAP-CAP provides a time and cost-saving method for forming straight, uniform and debris-free joints of the proper configuration, ready to seal. The top of SNAP-CAP pulls free and can be discarded. The exposed concrete surfaces assure balanced adherence to the sides. It is ideal for both horizontal and vertical concrete projects. SNAP-CAP is available in four widths as shown in the table on page 2.

• Learn more about Plastic Expansion Joint Materials.

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Concrete Expansion Joints

What Is a Concrete Expansion Joint?