The waterproofing of expansion joints is an indispensable practice for civil construction. It consists of a way to preserve structures, preventing the physical actions of moisture and temperature fluctuations from causing significant damage.
Due to the thermal variation, the materials undergo volumetric changes, in which the expansion joints play a fundamental role. For this reason, it is essential to pay extra attention to ensure healthy structures and total safety in buildings.
If you want to learn more about the waterproofing of expansion joints and help preserve your buildings, you're in the right place! Check out, in this post, how to do this job and see more relevant information on the subject!
What is the expansion joint?
The expansion joint is very common in various types of buildings and structures. It consists of spaces scaled to absorb expansion and retrenchment of the structure caused by thermal variation and reduce vibrations.
Basically, it is a space for material to expand or contract, according to the environment in which it is exposed. Expansion joints prevent friction between structures of concrete, relieving tension to prevent the appearance of cracks and fissures.
Every material, when exposed to natural temperature fluctuation, undergoes variations in its volume, even if they are negligible. In this sense, expansion joints allow these physical changes to take place without compromising structural safety.
In civil construction, expansion joints are used in structures of all sizes, such as:
- floors;
- external walls;
- slabs;
- beams;
- pillars.
What are the risks associated with the expansion joint?
With an immense territorial extension, Brazil is a country with a wide variety of climate types. It is common to find hot and dry regions, others with low temperatures, and cities with a high incidence of rain and heat.
All of these climatic variations, even if they are not intense, can cause structural impacts. Therefore, the lack of an expansion joint and adequate waterproofing can lead to serious damage.
In the short term, thermal expansion and contraction cause surface cracks and cracks if there is no expansion joint or it is inadequate. This is the beginning of a process that gradually damages the structure.
In the long term, the risks are even greater and serious. Cracks, cracks and fissures are a gateway for moisture, which makes everything even more complicated, compromising the entire system and stability of the construction, a factor that can be prevented with simple actions.
Why invest in expansion joint waterproofing?
The waterproofing of expansion joints helps to increase the resistance of the structure against the elements. It is a procedure considered simple, which offers very important benefits for any building.
It is a service that promotes the safety and durability of buildings, reducing the effects of humidity. Because expansion joints are unavoidable in many residential, commercial, and industrial projects, keeping it efficient and in good condition is essential.
In addition, investing in waterproofing of expansion joints provides the following benefits;
- long-term protection;
- durable and resistant structures;
- great cost-benefit ratio;
- elimination of infiltrations that compromise the structure;
- reducing the possibility of cracking and cracking;
- strength for the structure regardless of the type of use and exposure.
The best way to avoid structural problems and have more peace of mind is waterproof the expansion joints. Thus, it is possible to avoid repairs, which can be even more expensive.
What are the ways to do waterproofing?
The waterproofing of expansion joints is carried out by applying products that seal and form a protective layer. It is necessary to have suitable products for the complete sealing of the structure.
Thus, the best alternative to having quality waterproofing is the use of flexible products. An example of this is the polyurethane sealant, which promotes the definitive sealing of the expansion joint.
The application is simple, although it is essential to have quality products and qualified labor. It all starts with the complete cleaning of the area to be waterproofed, Calculation of the quantity of products needed and then the product is applied.
After this process, it is necessary to wait for the material to cure and analyze if there is no part left unapplied. Since most of the time they are areas exposed to the weather, it is important to monitor them over the years to verify that there has been no wear and that maintenance is necessary.
What is the importance of the quality of products and suppliers?
The goal of every construction professional is to ensure efficient, functional, safe and durable structures. Therefore, every project must have quality materials and qualified labor.
Nos waterproofing processes it's no different. The quality of the products has a direct influence on results and costs, since, with a quality service, rework expenses are eliminated.
In this context, for the successful waterproofing of expansion joints, it is essential to purchase products offered by a brand recognized in the market for offering product excellence. It's a way to guarantee efficiency and to know that nothing will compromise the structure.
To provide perfect solutions to construction professionals, Blok offers a line of waterproofing agents of extreme quality. Developed with high technology, it is the best way to have quality waterproofing.
With various applications in commercial, industrial and even residential environments, Blok products contribute to achieving the objectives in the best way, providing incredible benefits for your project.
There are several options to meet the demand of the work and guarantee surfaces free from the risks offered by humidity. At Blok, you will find polyurethane, hybrid and acrylic silicone sealants, ideal for having solutions for all types of surfaces and expansion joints.
As you can see in the context of this article, expansion joint waterproofing is an important process and needs to be considered in every project. As it protects the structure, it can be considered an investment in prevention, which promotes great results for buildings.
Did you like the post? Now that you are aware of the expansion joint waterproofing process, visit the Blok website and learn more or BlokSil MS, ideal PU sealant for your project!
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