General Expansion Joints

In dealing with expansion joints and movement joints we need to differentiate between them in the waterproofing context. Expansion joints refer to the waterproofing of the connection between two separate structural elements. These joints are there because the engineer anticipated movement and has designed the structures in such a way as to accommodate such movement. We need to maintain this "two-element" concept in providing a method of keeping out water. Simply attempting to seal these two structural elements together using a membrane will seldom provide a long-term solution.

It is always advisable to raise the expansion joint above the anticipated water level, but in unavoidable circumstances a level expansion joint can be constructed with due precautions. All the expansion joint specifications on this site are a generic guide and for more specific detailing please refer to your nearest Waterproofing Centre.