If you’re one of those engineers who doesn’t think sealing concrete pavement joints is worth the expense, you’ve probably been burned by poor performance. Premature failure is caused by a whole host of factors, from inadequate surface preparation to faulty filling to unrealistic expectations. A new technical bulletin from the American Concrete Paving Association’s Jointing Task Force provides the informational ammunition you need to specify durable joints.
“Concrete Pavement Joint Sealing/Filling” is a new industry standard with practical information including a chart that explains which ASTM specification to use depending on sealant type and properties and typical coefficient of thermal expansion and shrinkage and sealant strain depending on joint geometry. More importantly for cash-strapped public agencies, the document explains under what conditions the process is a waste of money regardless of how well installation is completed.
“Unless local experiences indicate sealing or filling provides limited performance protection value, the recommended practice is to seal and maintain joints paying careful attention to reservoir design, sealant installation, and maintenance requirements,” says Jerry Voigt, PE, the association’s president and CEO. “Review these recommendations as a starting point to reassess practices.”
The International Grooving & Grinding Association Read the bulletin
