How Epoxy Joint Sealer Stops Concrete Floor Damage and Vibration

Bridges, roads and sidewalks can expand and contract considerably. Most modern buildings, however, have a controlled climate with temperature variations of between 10 and 15 degrees. As a result, these expansion joints are more of a problem than a solution.

Flexible caulks were used in the expansion joints to ease the transition between slabs and allow for some movement. Unfortunately, this movement can become a problem and a cost if it is frequent or significant.

A better solution is to epoxy the slabs with 100% solid epoxy and colored quartz. The epoxy quartz infill levels the groove between the slabs, eliminating vibration, wear and structural damage that would otherwise be caused by moving equipment. The quartz-epoxy blend withstands test resistances of 22,000 psi.

A recommended first step in the application process is to place a masonry blade on a 1/4 to 1/2 inch power saw and thread it through the expansion joints, cleaning both sides. Flexible chalk will melt joints during this operation. After the joints are cleaned, colored quartz is applied to the joints until it is slightly lower than flush with the floor surface. Clear or 100% colored epoxy is then poured over these joints until the quartz is saturated and raised to ground level. 12 hours later the joint will need to be re-inspected and refilled.

These gaskets often have openings at the bottom and epoxy can leak out. The wet colored quartz will remain and block seepage on the second application. It is important to return to the floor 10 to 12 hours later to scrape off excess epoxy. Wait too long and the epoxy becomes difficult to shave; very little prep time and the epoxy can be tacky or tacky. Using a 4 inch razor scraper with a long handle allows each side of the joint to guide the scraper and provide a smooth, even fill on the joint between slabs. Done right, rolling stock may never notice any joints again and the life of the floor will be extended with less maintenance and repair.

The cost of filling deep holes and heavily weathered soils can be reduced by using colored quartz and a filler and wear inhibitor. Blending 100 percent epoxy with colored quartz at 25 pounds per gallon results in a palette mix with a peanut butter consistency. This mixture can be placed in the holes with a trowel or spatula. Small vertical areas are best filled with a thick rubber glove and applying the mixture by hand rubbing.

One such company that has taken the lead in joint repair is Expedient foundation repair in Spokane, WA. Durall is the only industrial flooring manufacturer to also manufacture over 500 specialty cleaners, enabling them to produce specialty cleaner formulations and application systems designed to ensure optimum adhesion and wear results.

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