What is a concrete expansion joint?

Pouring concrete is a time consuming task. In addition to the process of mixing and shipping to the place where you are going to install it, you will also have to wait for the mixture to dry. 

The result is that when you do it, you want to make sure you're doing it right, because having to start all over again is so much worse. After all, you first have to get rid of all the concrete that hasn't worked before starting from scratch.

Concrete can crack

As you probably know, concrete, once it sets, is a very hard substance, which is a good thing because almost every job we ask it to do requires it to be very strong. However, like many other substances, it can expand and contract with changes in temperature. This is where stiffness can cause problems, because the larger the concrete slab, the more likely it is to expand and contract, and then cracks will begin to appear.

What it does is give the concrete room to move, and that's where expansion joints come in handy.

Placing expansion joints

Expansion joints are spaces between sections of concrete that can be formed before the concrete is poured, or cut into the concrete after, but not long after; ideally, before 12 noon. The space is filled with a flexible material that allows the concrete to move. This ability of concrete to move slightly allows you to prevent cracking and maintain a pristine concrete surface and integrity.

At Lueste, we have extensive experience placing all types of concrete, we have the skills and knowledge to ensure your concrete is placed in a way that you can be sure will last for years. We serve CDMX. Call +52 (55) 5598-9348 or contact us online.