Why Joints & Joint Sealing Are Required In Construction

 A joint or construction joint refers to a concrete joint that is used when a new concrete section or slab has to be joined adjacent to the existing section. It is primarily developed to allow horizontal movement and safeguard against vertical movements. The construction joint prevents the development of excess stress in the concrete structure, leading to expansion and contraction due to moisture, loads, temperature changes, vibrations, etc.



Why Joint Sealing is Needed?

Since the joint expands and contracts due to the various changes mentioned above, it becomes essential to seal the joints so that any penetration of gases, liquids, and solids in the formed gaps can be prevented. Although the polysulphide sealant is the best sealant, used for sealing the construction joints, the choice of sealant may also depend on the joint design. Sealing the joints in buildings prevents the entry of air and water.


When it comes to water retaining structures such as pipes, tanks, canals, dams, etc. joints need to be sealed to prevent leakages, hence the water loss. Then, in the case of roads or bridges, joints are sealed to prevent the concrete from the damage caused by water as well as solids from entering the gaps. While in the case of highways, strong and durable joint sealing is required to prevent the roads from heavy-weight traffic. By not allowing the solids, liquids, and gases to enter the roads, one can protect their concrete structure and increase their life. 

How to Select a Proper Sealant

The selection of proper sealant is based on the following characteristics:


  • A sealant must be impermeable.

  • Must resist the movements taking place on the joints from deformation and damage.

  • Should have appropriate adhesion and not fail due to cohesion, load, stress, compression, tension as well as impact. 

  • Be resistant to weathering, fire, light, water, fungus, and fuel.

  • Should have a low maintenance cost. 

End Note

IWL India is a leading manufacturer and supplier of construction sealants and adhesives. A wide range of adhesives such as coal tar epoxy, zinc primer, etc. is used to seal varied surfaces like pipes, waterproofing membranes, building concrete surfaces, railway tracks, etc. get in touch to get anti-corrosive, waterproofing, sealing, and other solutions.   

 


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