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Expansion joints also referred to as "movement joints," mimic those in our bodies. They expand and contract as needed. These movements contribute to a structure's overall stability. They work in bisecting a structure, like a building, and creating a gap. The gap is then filled to restore the building and to double its ability to withstand physical traumas. They are also used on construction sites to counteract seismic activity as well as help secure the structure while other parts are built around it. They protect against strong winds, dangerous temperatures, and other physical occurrences that could affect the strength of a building and its durability. Temperature Changes in temperature, such as extreme heat, cause the materials in a building to expand, these joints counteract this expansion by contracting. Doing so restores equilibrium, recompressing the materials within a gap to their original size. When temperatures drop below freezing building materials can constrict. The expansion then forces these materials to re-expand. Structures with Expansions The ability of expansion joints to widen and narrow regulate structures' gap sizes, thus reducing the need for repairs and other maintenance procedures. Sidewalks, bridges, railways, and many buildings use them for their stress-relieving qualities. Large air ducts use them to regulate changes in temperature. They are also found in pipes, where they help stabilize movements between separate parts of a structure. Joint Placement Location varies depending on the structure. In some instances, joints are located in the middle of the project. This is the case with bridges and pipes. Other structures need several throughout. On train tracks, for instance, they can be found every 60 feet or so for temperature regulation purposes. Most are placed at strategic points of strain and pressure in a structure. Ultimately, it is important to choose areas that will need to absorb the most pressure. Joint and Structure Materials Usually made of metal, such as stainless steel, this material allows for a restricted range of motion within a structure, while keeping it intact and under control. Other materials include rubber and concrete. Structure materials include concrete (sidewalks); brick (buildings); and steel (tracks and pipes). Regardless of what material is being used, joints can be placed in between portions of several structures for added support. They are malleable and adaptive. Expansion joints have revolutionized the way that many structures are built today. They reduce repair and maintenance costs, thus allowing for a greater diversity of structures to be built. They have proven to have useful qualities that can withstand the many negative effects that weather and other forces of nature pose to a building's overall safety and stability. When looking for expansion joints, businesses go to Rubber & Specialties, Inc. To learn more, visit http://www.rubberandspecialties.com/?attachment_id=370.
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