Problems Caused by Wooden Expansion Joints
Often, the first part of any concrete surface that fails is the wooden concrete expansion joint. The purpose of the expansion joint is to give the concrete space to expand and shrink at different temperature levels. The expansion joint helps to prevent the concrete from cracking and buckling. Once the wooden expansion joint starts to weather, rot, and fall apart, the concrete installation can start to become unsightly. The rotting wood can stain the concrete, and it even creates a fertile area for weeds to take hold and start flourishing.
A Solution for Replacing Expansion Joints
There is no need to replace old joints with new wooden ones. Now, enduring expansion joints made of long-lasting flexible PVC are available. PVC is the same material that is used for windows and gutters and is made to survive time and the outdoor elements. Furthermore, PVC concrete expansion joints are available in different colors and are easy to install. You just press them in with your hand and no special tools are required. Once they are in place, the structure, shape, and material of the improved expansion joint will prevent weed growth for years. If you should ever need to remove PVC expansion joints, they are easy to lift right out of the joint.
www.trim-a-slab.com is a good place to learn more about the benefits of PVC expansion joints when you are looking for a solution to your aging concrete expansion joints.