Concrete joint or cold joint repair
Concrete joint or cold joint repair is very similar to repairing a foundation crack. The differences between the two come down to the definition of a crack and the definition of a concrete joint.
What is the difference between a cold joint and a crack?
Even if we sometimes tend to confuse them, a crack and a cold concrete joint have very different characteristics.
The cold joint
A cold concrete joint is formed when there is a sufficiently long period of time, over 30 minutes, between the first and second concrete pour. This time can of course vary according to the conditions. As the first batch has already started to solidify, it becomes impossible for the second to combine with it, creating a cold joint. This defect can sometimes be confused with a crack, as both appear similar to the naked eye.
This type of cold joint often allows water to pass as easily as a concrete crack.
Here are some photos of cold joints:
The crack
A foundation crack is a very common occurrence that does not always require intervention. The width of a crack is generally between 0.2 and 2 mm. Beyond that, it is called a crevice. A crevice can jeopardize the building’s stability.
It is therefore necessary to monitor the growth of the crack over time to avoid any problems on your home.
What repairs are carried out on cold concrete joints?
Repairing these types of concrete joints involves the technique of high pressure flexible polyurethane injection or the installation of an elastomeric waterproofing membrane.
High pressure flexible polyurethane injection
The high-pressure injection procedure allows the insertion of a liquid into a very narrow crack. The technician will drill holes along the cold concrete joint and ensure that the holes and joint on the concrete surface are properly cleaned. Once these steps have been completed, the technician will seal the joint on the surface. High-pressure flexible polyurethane injection is carried out all along the concrete crack, from bottom to top.
The benefits are undeniable: the result is long-lasting and instantaneous. It can be done at any time, regardless of the season.
Elastomeric waterproofing membrane installation
This is the same procedure as a foundation crack repair on the exterior side of the house. Its purpose is to prevent any water infiltration through the concrete joint. As with high-pressure injection, the joint must first be cleaned and then sealed before installing the elastomeric waterproofing membrane.
The sealant prevents water infiltration into the joint. This enables your concrete joint to last longer.
The Foundation Crack Expert Group guarantee for concrete joint repair
At Foundation Crack Expert Group, you will be dealing with real experts in cold concrete joint repair and we also offer you a transferable 10-YEAR GUARANTEE* IN WRITING.
Even if cold concrete joint and crack repair are quite similar, it is important to remember the difference between the two.
To avoid problems with your cold concrete joints and guarantee a comprehensive and fast repair, contact one of our experts as soon as possible.
