Why Driveway Expansion Joints Matter in Fairfield, OH

Understanding How Expansion Joints Work

Expansion joints are planned interruptions in concrete panels that account for the thermal movements due to temperature fluctuation throughout the year in Ohio’s changing seasonal weather conditions. The expansion joints allow for movement of the concrete slab as the weather changes, so that it does not cause stress that would lead to random cracking and structural damage to the concrete.

If expansion joints are not properly installed into concrete slabs, then uncontrolled cracking will begin to develop within the slab and will ultimately affect both the aesthetic appeal of the concrete and its structural integrity. A well-experienced contractor will know how to space expansion joints correctly to allow for optimal function. Typically, this means installing joints at intervals of 2 to 3 times the thickness of the slab in feet.

Accommodating Thermal Movement

Due to the wide range of temperatures in Ohio, from high temperatures during the summer (in excess of 85 degrees F) to sub-freezing temperatures during the winter, there is considerable thermal stress put upon concrete driveways. Expansion joints provide an area of free movement for the concrete to expand and contract without developing internal stress that could cause cracking.

Concrete expands approximately .0000065 inches per inch of length for each degree F in temperature change, which means a 20-foot section of a driveway will be able to expand and contract almost 1/8 inch in length as the temperature increases and decreases. The expansion joints will allow for this type of movement and will also help to maintain structural continuity across the surface of the driveway.

Protection from Freeze-Thaw in Ohio Winter Conditions

Challenges of Winter Weather in Fairfield

The winter months in Fairfield have numerous freeze-thaw cycles that produce expansive forces on concrete from the expanding water in the concrete as it freezes. When water enters the pore spaces of the concrete and freezes, it creates an expansive force internally in the concrete that can lead to cracking if not protected.

When expansion joints are properly sealed against the elements of the Ohio weather, they eliminate the possibility of water infiltration that could lead to freeze-thaw damage to the concrete.

Preventing Freeze Damage

By using the correct types of sealants in the expansion joints, the water cannot accumulate in the joints and cause freeze-thaw damage to the concrete driveway. In addition to protecting the concrete from freeze-thaw damage, the expansion joints will continue to allow for thermal movement of the concrete and provide continued structural continuity across the surface of the driveway.

In order to protect the concrete from freeze-thaw damage, neglected expansion joints must be made watertight again by the use of additional sealants in order to stop water from penetrating the joints during the cold-weather months and continuing to deteriorate the concrete driveway. Maintenance and re-sealing of the expansion joints will protect the homeowner’s investment in their concrete driveway and ensure that it continues to perform properly in the severe conditions found in the Ohio climate.

Proper Joint Spacing and Design

Established Guidelines for Contractor Placement

Concrete contractors follow established guidelines for spacing expansion joints in accordance with the thickness of the concrete and the environmental conditions that exist. In Butler County, the recommended spacing for expansion joints in residential driveways is typically every 8 to 12 feet to provide adequate stress relief.

Joint depth should be approximately one-fourth of the total thickness of the slab to ensure the best possible transfer of stresses while still allowing for structural continuity. If the joint is too shallow, it will not provide enough allowance for the concrete to move; if it is too deep, it will reduce the strength of the surrounding concrete.

Location Strategy

The location strategy for placement of expansion joints considers natural stress concentrations in the driveway, such as at changes in direction, at intersections of the driveway and garage slabs, and at transitions to sidewalks or other adjacent concrete structures. A professional contractor will identify the optimal locations that will minimize the stresses and still achieve a functional driveway design.

If possible, joints should be aligned with architectural features to add to the visual appeal of the driveway while still fulfilling the purpose of the joint. Organized patterns created by the placement of joints will provide a cohesive look to the driveway while providing the necessary functions.

Materials and Installation of the Joints

Selection Criteria for Sealants

Polyurethane sealants offer the best performance in Ohio’s climate conditions. Polyurethane sealants will provide excellent flexibility throughout the temperature ranges found in Ohio’s climate while also providing resistance to UV degradation and moisture penetration. Professional-grade sealants provide better performance and longer life than consumer-grade sealants.

When selecting a sealant for expansion joints in Ohio’s climate conditions, the temperature rating of the sealant should be taken into consideration and should be rated from -40° F to 180° F to provide the best performance. Self-leveling formulations of sealants provide a smooth finish that complements the appearance of the driveway while providing better protection.

Best Practices for Installation

A professional contractor will start the process of installing expansion joints with a thorough cleaning of the joint to remove any debris, old sealant materials, and contaminants that may interfere with the bonding of the new sealant. Proper surface preparation will provide the best possible performance and longevity of the sealant in the challenging conditions found in Ohio.

Weather conditions during the installation process of expansion joints play a large role in the performance and longevity of the sealant. The ideal conditions for installation of sealants are dry conditions and temperatures above 40° F to provide the best curing characteristics. A professional contractor will plan the installation of the expansion joints in the most favorable weather conditions available to provide the best possible adhesion and curing of the sealant.

Maintenance and Long-term Performance

Schedule for Inspecting Joints

It is essential to inspect the expansion joints annually to determine if there is a problem that has developed and is going to compromise the integrity of the concrete. This is especially important after the harsh winter months in Ohio, as these conditions will stress sealant materials. It is crucial to detect any sealant failures early, as water will infiltrate the concrete and lead to expensive repairs to the concrete.

Indicators of the need for joint maintenance include signs of separation, cracking, or loss of sealant material, or the sealant material separating from the joint itself. Addressing any of these problems promptly will prevent further damage to the concrete.

Re-sealing Schedule

Typically, quality expansion joint sealants will need to be replaced every 3 to 5 years in Ohio’s climate, depending on the quality of the sealant used and the amount of environmental exposure it receives. A professional contractor can evaluate the condition of the sealant and advise on the best course of action for the maintenance schedule.

Maintaining and replacing the sealants regularly will save money compared to the cost of repairs to damaged concrete resulting from failed expansion joints. Maintaining the sealants will protect the investment that was made in the concrete driveway and ensure that it performs optimally under all conditions found in the Ohio climate.

DIY Installation of Expansion Joints

Specialized Technical Requirements

Expansion joints must be installed by a qualified individual who possesses the specialized tools required for the job, professional-grade materials, and technical knowledge of the proper spacing requirements for the specific conditions of Ohio. Incorrect installation will negatively impact the long-term performance and could potentially void the warranty of the concrete.

Qualified contractors will be familiar with local building codes, the proper depth of the joint, and the proper selection of sealants for expansion joints in Ohio. Unfortunately, many DIY attempts at installing expansion joints will fail to provide adequate protection to the concrete, leading to premature failure of the concrete.

Benefits of Quality Assured Installation

In addition to performing the work professionally, qualified contractors will provide warranties on the materials and labor to protect the homeowner’s investment in the concrete driveway. Additionally, qualified contractors will have a relationship with suppliers of commercial-grade materials, which are not generally available through retailers. With superior materials and expert installation, the homeowner can expect the best results for the severe conditions of Ohio’s climate.

To obtain the highest level of service for the installation and maintenance of expansion joints to protect the homeowner’s investment in their concrete driveway in the extreme seasonal conditions of Ohio, contact the professionals at Fairfield Concrete Contractors today. Our experienced staff will utilize the optimal spacing of joints, the best materials available, and professional installation methods to ensure that your concrete driveway will last for generations to come in Butler County’s extreme climate.