Repair of concrete joints or cold joints

Repairing concrete joints or cold joints is very similar to repairing a façade crack. Where the two are distinguished, it is rather in the definition of a crack and that of a concrete joint.

What is the difference between a cold seal and a crack?

Even if we sometimes tend to confuse them, a crack and a cold concrete joint are very different in their characteristics.

The Cold Seal

The cold concrete joint is formed (when there is a long delay – more than 30 minutes-) between the first and second concrete pours, this delay can obviously vary depending on the conditions. As the first pour has already started to solidify, it becomes impossible for the second pour to combine with the previous one, thus creating a cold seal. Sometimes, this defect can be mistaken for a crack, as both are similar to the naked eye.

This type of defect often allows water to pass through as easily as a concrete crack.

Here are some pictures of cold seals:

Cold Seal

Cold Sealant 1

Cold Seal 2

Exterior Cold Seal

The Crack

A crack on a façade is something very common that does not always require intervention. The width of a crack is usually between 0.2 and 2mm. Beyond this measure, it is called a crack, or crevice. A crevice can compromise the stability of the building.

It is therefore advisable to monitor the evolution of the crack over time in order to avoid any problems on your home.

Our expertise at your service

You will be able to benefit from all the expertise of Groupe Fissure Expert and see all the difference in quality existing on our repairs!

For any questions or repairs to the cracks in your home, contact one of our experienced technicians at Groupe Fissure Expert inc.

What repair should be done on cold concrete joints?

The repair of this type of concrete joint uses the technique of high-pressure injection of flexible polyurethane or by the installation of an impermeable elastomeric membrane.

High Pressure Injection of Flexible Polyurethane

The high-pressure injection procedure allows a liquid to be introduced into a very narrow crack. The technician will work to 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 surface seal. High-pressure injection of flexible polyurethane is carried out along the entire length of the concrete crack, from the bottom to the top.

The advantages are undeniable: the result is instant and long-lasting. It can be done at any time, regardless of the season.

Installation of elastomeric waterproof membrane

This is the same process as for the repair of foundation crackson the exterior side of the house. Its purpose is to prevent any water infiltration through the concrete joint. As with high-pressure injection, the gasket must first be cleaned and then sealed, before installing the elastomer-type impermeable membrane.

The sealant prevents water from entering the joint. This allows your concrete joint to last longer.

The Fissure Expert Foundation Group Warranty for the repair of concrete joints

At Groupe Fissure Expert Fondation, you will be dealing with true experts in the repair of your cold concrete joints, and we also offer you a transferable 10-year WRITTEN WARRANTY*.

Even though cold concrete joint repair and crack repair are quite similar, remember to differentiate between the two.

To avoid problems with your cold concrete joints and to be sure to get a complete and fast repair, remember to contact one of our experts as soon as possible.

 

(*) Some restrictions apply.