Blog
“It is unwise to pay too much, but it’s worse to pay too little. When you pay too much you lose a little money—that is all. When you pay too little you sometimes lose everything, because the thing you bought was incapable of doing the things it was bought to do. The common law of business balance prohibits paying a little and getting a lot. It can’t be done. If you deal with the lowest bidder, it is well to add something for the risk you run, and if you do that you will have enough to pay for something better.”
— John Ruskin.
Costs of Failure
Dseal Building Expansion Joints and Seals (EPDM, TPE, and TPV Seals)
In the words of industry experts, “When point loads cause the failure of floor expansion joints, healthcare facilities incur significant costs.” The implications of such failures are profound. Uneven surfaces not only damage expensive mobile medical equipment but also pose serious risks for personal discomfort and potential injury. Beyond the immediate labor and material costs associated with replacing floor expansion joints, the true financial burden for hospitals lies in the operational disruptions. Entire sections of the facility may need to be closed off during the replacement process, leading to significant inconvenience and potential loss of revenue.
Investing in high-quality floor expansion joints, such as those offered by Dseal, is a strategic decision. While the initial purchase costs may be higher compared to inexpensive rubber and rail or coverplate systems, this incremental cost is minimal when weighed against the long-term economic benefits. Durable and trouble-free floor expansion joints from Dseal are designed to withstand the point loads typical of healthcare traffic conditions, ensuring longevity and reliability.
By choosing Dseal’s EPDM, TPE, and TPV seals, healthcare facilities can achieve a balance of performance and cost-efficiency. These materials are engineered to provide superior resilience and durability, reducing the frequency of replacements and minimizing disruptions. The long-term benefits include not only reduced maintenance costs but also enhanced safety and operational efficiency.
In summary, the investment in Dseal’s high-quality floor expansion joints and seals is a prudent choice for healthcare facilities aiming to mitigate risks, protect valuable equipment, and ensure uninterrupted operations. The initial higher cost is a small price to pay for the substantial long-term savings and peace of mind that come with reliable, durable solutions.
Building Expansion Joints: The Role of EPDM Seals
Building expansion joints are crucial components in modern construction, designed to absorb the natural movements of structures caused by thermal expansion, vibrations, and settling. Among the various materials used for these joints, Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) seals stand out due to their exceptional properties and performance.
What are EPDM Seals?
EPDM is a type of synthetic rubber known for its outstanding durability and flexibility. It is widely used in various applications, including roofing, automotive, and notably, in building expansion joints. The molecular structure of EPDM provides excellent resistance to heat, cold, UV rays, and severe weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for outdoor applications.
Benefits of EPDM Seals in Expansion Joints
Durability: EPDM seals are highly resistant to environmental degradation, which ensures a long lifespan for the expansion joints. This reduces the need for frequent replacements and maintenance, leading to cost savings over time.
Flexibility: The flexibility of EPDM allows it to accommodate significant movements in the structure without cracking or losing its sealing properties. This is essential for maintaining the integrity of the building.
Weather Resistance: EPDM seals can withstand extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions, making them suitable for use in various climates.
Waterproofing: EPDM’s excellent waterproofing capabilities protect the structure from water ingress, which is crucial for preventing damage to foundations and basements.
Applications of EPDM Seals in Construction
EPDM seals are used in a variety of construction applications, including:
Concrete Roads and Bridges: EPDM seals in expansion joints help accommodate the movements caused by thermal expansion and vibrations, ensuring the structural integrity of roads and bridges.
Buildings: In buildings, EPDM seals are used in expansion joints to manage the movements between different sections of the structure, preventing cracks and other damages.
Waterproofing: EPDM membranes are used to protect foundations and basements from water ingress, which is essential in areas with high moisture levels.
Installation and Maintenance
Proper installation of EPDM seals is crucial to maximize their effectiveness. The seals should be fitted to ensure no gaps are left that may lead to unnecessary energy losses. Regular inspections and maintenance are recommended to check for signs of wear and tear, and cleaning is advised to remove any debris that could affect the seal’s integrity.
Why Choose EPDM Seals from Dseal?
At Dseal, we specialize in manufacturing high-quality EPDM expansion joints that meet the rigorous demands of modern construction. Our products are designed to provide superior performance and longevity, ensuring that your structures remain safe and durable. Visit www.dseal.in to learn more about our range of EPDM seals and how they can benefit your construction projects.
In conclusion, EPDM seals are indispensable in modern construction, providing essential protection and energy efficiency benefits. Their robustness and flexibility make them a smart choice for sustainable building practices. For more information on EPDM expansion joints, visit www.dseal.in.
installation process for EPDM seals in building expansion joints
The installation process for EPDM seals in building expansion joints is crucial to ensure their effectiveness and longevity. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process:
1. Preparation
Surface Cleaning: Ensure the surfaces where the EPDM seals will be installed are clean, dry, and free from any debris, dust, or grease. This helps in achieving a strong bond.
Measurement: Measure the length and width of the expansion joint to cut the EPDM seal to the required size.
2. Cutting the EPDM Seal
Cutting: Use a utility knife or scissors to cut the EPDM seal to the appropriate length. Make sure the cuts are straight and clean to ensure a proper fit.
3. Applying Adhesive
Adhesive Selection: Choose a compatible adhesive for EPDM. Water-based or solvent-based adhesives are commonly used.
Application: Apply the adhesive evenly on both the surface and the EPDM seal. Use a paint roller or brush for an even application.
4. Installing the EPDM Seal
Positioning: Carefully position the EPDM seal over the expansion joint. Ensure it is aligned correctly before pressing it down.
Pressing: Use a hand roller or weighted roller to press the EPDM seal firmly into place. This helps in achieving a strong bond and eliminates air bubbles.
5. Sealing the Seams
Seam Primer: Apply a seam primer to the edges of the EPDM seal where it overlaps with another piece.
Seam Tape: Place seam tape over the primed areas to create a watertight seal. Press down firmly to ensure proper adhesion.
Lap Sealant: Apply lap sealant along the edges of the seam tape for additional waterproofing.
6. Finishing Touches
Edge Sealing: Use a caulking gun to apply sealant around the edges and any penetrations to prevent water ingress.
Inspection: Inspect the installation for any gaps or areas that need additional adhesive or sealant. Make sure everything is securely in place.
7. Maintenance
Regular Checks: Periodically inspect the EPDM seals for signs of wear and tear. Clean the seals to remove any debris that could affect their performance.
Repairs: Promptly address any damage or deterioration to maintain the integrity of the expansion joints.
For more detailed information and high-quality EPDM expansion joints, you can visit www.dseal.in. They offer a range of products designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern construction.
What are common mistakes to avoid during EPDM seal installation?
When installing EPDM seals for building expansion joints, avoiding common mistakes is crucial to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the seals. Here are some key pitfalls to watch out for:
1. Inadequate Surface Preparation
Mistake: Not cleaning the surface properly before installation.
Solution: Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from debris, dust, and grease. This helps in achieving a strong bond between the EPDM seal and the substrate1.
2. Incorrect Sizing and Cutting
Mistake: Cutting the EPDM seal inaccurately, leading to improper fit.
Solution: Measure the expansion joint accurately and cut the EPDM seal to the exact size needed. Use sharp tools to make clean, straight cuts2.
3. Poor Adhesive Application
Mistake: Using the wrong type or amount of adhesive, or applying it unevenly.
Solution: Choose a compatible adhesive and apply it evenly on both the surface and the EPDM seal. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct amount and application method1.
4. Improper Seam Preparation and Sealing
Mistake: Not properly preparing and sealing the seams, leading to leaks and premature failure.
Solution: Ensure seams are properly overlapped, cleaned, and primed before applying adhesive or seam tape. Press the seam tape firmly to create a watertight seal3.
5. Neglecting Regular Maintenance
Mistake: Failing to inspect and maintain the EPDM seals regularly.
Solution: Conduct regular inspections to check for signs of wear and tear. Clean the seals to remove any debris that could affect their performance and address any damage promptly3.
6. Incorrect Installation of Flashings and Accessories
Mistake: Improperly installing flashings and accessories, which can compromise the seal’s integrity.
Solution: Securely fasten and seal flashings and accessories to prevent water intrusion. Use compatible materials and techniques to ensure a proper fit1.
7. Not Allowing Adhesive to Cure
Mistake: Not allowing sufficient time for the adhesive to cure before subjecting the seal to stress.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a successful installation of EPDM seals that will provide long-lasting protection and performance. For high-quality EPDM expansion joints and more detailed guidance, visit www.dseal.in.
Dseal Seal Roll 25Meters
Dseal Seal Measure
Dseal Seal fitting
Dseal finished Seal
What are the signs of improper EPDM seal installation?
Improper installation of EPDM seals can lead to several issues that compromise the effectiveness and longevity of the expansion joints. Here are some common signs to watch out for:
1. Leaks and Water Ingress
Signs: Presence of water leaks around the expansion joints, especially after rain or cleaning.
Cause: Poor sealing of seams or inadequate adhesive application1.
2. Bubbling or Blistering
Signs: Visible bubbles or blisters on the surface of the EPDM seal.
3. Shrinkage and Pulling Away
Signs: The EPDM seal appears to shrink or pull away from the edges of the expansion joint.
4. Cracks and Tears
Signs: Cracks or tears in the EPDM seal, especially around seams and corners.
Cause: Incorrect cutting, excessive stretching during installation, or use of inappropriate tools3.
5. Poor Adhesion
Signs: The EPDM seal does not adhere properly to the substrate, leading to gaps or loose sections.
Cause: Inadequate surface preparation, use of incompatible adhesive, or insufficient curing time2.
6. Debris and Contaminants
Signs: Presence of debris, dust, or other contaminants on the EPDM seal or within the expansion joint.
Cause: Failure to clean the surface properly before installation1.
7. Improperly Sealed Seams
Signs: Seams that are not properly overlapped, primed, or sealed, leading to visible gaps or weak points.
8. Damaged Flashings and Accessories
Signs: Flashings and accessories around the EPDM seal are damaged or not securely fastened.
Cause: Incorrect installation or use of incompatible materials3.
Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify these issues early and prevent further damage. For high-quality EPDM expansion joints and expert installation guidance, visit www.dseal.in.
Tell me more about Dseal's quality control processes.
Dseal, a leading brand under Dhawan Associates, is renowned for its commitment to quality and excellence in manufacturing building expansion joints. Here’s an overview of Dseal’s quality control processes:
1. Raw Material Selection
Dseal uses only the finest raw materials sourced from trusted vendors. This ensures that the base components of their EPDM seals and other products meet stringent quality standards right from the start1.
2. In-House Manufacturing
All Dseal products are manufactured in-house, allowing for meticulous control over the production process. This ensures consistency and adherence to high-quality standards1.
3. Stringent Quality Control Measures
Dseal implements rigorous quality control measures at every stage of production:
Incoming Inspection: Raw materials are inspected upon arrival to ensure they meet the required specifications.
In-Process Inspection: Continuous monitoring and testing during the manufacturing process help identify and correct any deviations immediately.
4. Advanced Testing Facilities
Dseal’s testing facilities are equipped with advanced technology to conduct various tests, including:
Tensile Strength Testing: Ensures the EPDM seals can withstand the required stress and strain.
Weather Resistance Testing: Assesses the seals’ ability to endure extreme weather conditions.
Aging Tests: Simulate long-term usage to ensure the seals maintain their properties over time1.
5. Compliance with Industry Standards
Dseal products comply with national and international standards, ensuring they meet the highest quality benchmarks. This includes adherence to ISO standards and other relevant certifications1.
6. Continuous Improvement
Dseal is committed to continuous improvement through regular training, feedback, and innovation. This helps in refining their processes and products to meet evolving industry needs1.
7. Customer Feedback and Support
Customer feedback is integral to Dseal’s quality control process. They actively seek and incorporate feedback to enhance product performance and customer satisfaction1.
For more detailed information about Dseal’s quality control processes and their range of products, you can visit www.dseal.in.
If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!
Expansion Joints Filler Board HD 100 by Dseal
Introduction: Expansion joints filler boards are crucial components in construction, designed to absorb the expansion and contraction of building materials due to temperature changes, ground settlement, or other factors. The HD 100 expansion joint filler board, under the Dseal brand manufactured by Dhawan Associates, is a high-density solution tailored for various construction needs.
Product Overview: The Dseal HD 100 expansion joint filler board is engineered to provide superior performance in filling expansion joints in concrete structures. It is designed to withstand significant pressure while maintaining flexibility, ensuring the longevity and integrity of the construction.
Technical Details:
Density: 100 ± 10% kg/m³
Water Absorption: 0.080 max kg/m² of cut surface area
Compression Recovery: 94% min
Thermal Stability: -40°C to +70°C
Chemical Resistance: Excellent resistance to chemicals, acids, bases, corrosion, UV, and weathering
Material: Closed cell cross-linked polymeric filler board
Applications:
Structural expansion joints in concrete highways, airport runways, parking areas, industrial flooring, and taxiways
Expansion joints in industrial, commercial, and residential buildings
Expansion joints in canals, dams, and storage tanks
Key Features:
Durability: Constructed with high-grade materials that resist wear, corrosion, and environmental stresses
Flexibility: Accommodates significant thermal, seismic, and structural movement
Weather Resistance: Withstands harsh weather conditions, including intense sunlight, moisture, and temperature fluctuations
Easy Installation: Streamlined installation processes save time and minimize disruptions
Comparison Chart:
Feature
Dseal HD 100
Kampun HD 100
Duraboard HD 100
Density
100 ± 10% kg/m³
100 ± 10% kg/m³
100 ± 10% kg/m³
Water Absorption
0.080 max kg/m²
0.080 max kg/m²
0.080 max kg/m²
Compression Recovery
94% min
95% min
94% min
Thermal Stability
-40°C to +70°C
-40°C to +70°C
-40°C to +70°C
Chemical Resistance
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Weather Resistance
High
High
High
Installation
Easy
Easy
Easy
Conclusion: The Dseal HD 100 expansion joint filler board by Dhawan Associates stands out for its high-density, durability, and flexibility. It is an excellent choice for various construction applications, ensuring the structural integrity and longevity of buildings and infrastructure projects. By choosing Dseal, you invest in a reliable and high-performance solution for your expansion joint needs.
If you have any specific questions or need further details, feel free to ask!
Installation Steps for Dseal HD 100 Expansion Joint Filler Board
Installing the Dseal HD 100 expansion joint filler board is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to ensure proper installation:
Preparation:
Clean the Joint: Ensure that the expansion joint is clean and free from any debris, dust, or loose particles. Use a brush or compressed air to clean the joint thoroughly.
Measure the Joint: Measure the width and depth of the expansion joint to determine the required size of the filler board.
Cutting the Filler Board:
Size Adjustment: Cut the Dseal HD 100 filler board to the required dimensions using a sharp utility knife or a saw. Ensure that the board fits snugly into the joint without any gaps.
Installation:
Insert the Filler Board: Place the cut filler board into the expansion joint. Ensure that it is positioned correctly and fits tightly within the joint.
Alignment: Align the filler board so that it is flush with the surface of the concrete. This ensures a smooth and even surface for subsequent sealing.
Sealing:
Apply Sealant: Apply a suitable sealant over the filler board to seal the joint. Use a caulking gun to apply the sealant evenly along the joint.
Smooth the Sealant: Use a spatula or a similar tool to smooth the sealant and ensure it adheres well to both the filler board and the concrete surfaces.
Curing:
Allow to Cure: Allow the sealant to cure as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves leaving the joint undisturbed for a specified period to ensure proper bonding and sealing.
Inspection:
Check the Joint: After the sealant has cured, inspect the joint to ensure that the filler board is securely in place and the sealant has formed a tight, waterproof seal.
Tips for Effective Installation:
Temperature Considerations: Install the filler board during moderate weather conditions to avoid issues related to extreme temperatures.
Sealant Compatibility: Ensure that the sealant used is compatible with the Dseal HD 100 filler board and suitable for the specific application.
Safety Measures: Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, during the installation process.
By following these steps, you can ensure a durable and effective installation of the Dseal HD 100 expansion joint filler board, providing long-lasting protection and flexibility for your construction projects.
If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, feel free to ask!
Recommended Sealants for Dseal HD 100 Expansion Joint Filler Board
When selecting a sealant for the Dseal HD 100 expansion joint filler board, it’s important to choose products that offer excellent adhesion, flexibility, and durability. Here are some recommended sealants:
Fosroc Nitoseal MS300:
Type: Polyurethane-based sealant
Features: High flexibility, excellent adhesion to concrete and filler boards, UV resistance, and long-term durability.
Applications: Suitable for sealing expansion joints in concrete structures, including highways, bridges, and buildings.
Sika Sikaflex-1a:
Type: Polyurethane sealant
Features: High elasticity, excellent adhesion to various substrates, weather resistance, and easy application.
Applications: Ideal for sealing expansion joints in concrete, masonry, and other construction materials.
BASF MasterSeal NP 1:
Type: Polyurethane sealant
Features: Single-component, high-performance, non-sag, and elastomeric properties.
Applications: Used for sealing expansion joints in concrete, metal, and other construction materials.
Dow Corning 888 Silicone Joint Sealant:
Type: Silicone-based sealant
Features: High movement capability, excellent weather resistance, and long-lasting performance.
Applications: Suitable for sealing expansion joints in highways, bridges, and other infrastructure projects.
Mapei Mapeflex PU45:
Type: Polyurethane sealant
Features: Fast-curing, high elasticity, and excellent adhesion to concrete and other substrates.
Applications: Ideal for sealing expansion joints in floors, walls, and other concrete structures.
Key Considerations:
Compatibility: Ensure the sealant is compatible with the Dseal HD 100 filler board and the specific application requirements.
Movement Capability: Choose a sealant with adequate movement capability to accommodate the expected expansion and contraction of the joint.
Environmental Resistance: Select a sealant that offers resistance to UV rays, weathering, and chemicals, especially for outdoor applications.
Application Method: Consider the ease of application and curing time of the sealant to ensure efficient installation.
By selecting the appropriate sealant, you can enhance the performance and longevity of the Dseal HD 100 expansion joint filler board in your construction projects. If you need further assistance or have specific requirements, feel free to ask!
Preparing the Joint Before Applying Sealant
Proper preparation of the expansion joint is crucial to ensure the sealant adheres well and performs effectively. Here are the steps to prepare the joint before applying sealant:
Clean the Joint:
Remove Debris: Use a brush, vacuum, or compressed air to remove any loose debris, dust, dirt, and old sealant from the joint. This ensures a clean surface for the new sealant to adhere to.
Wash the Joint: If necessary, wash the joint with water and a mild detergent to remove any grease, oil, or other contaminants. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
Inspect the Joint:
Check for Damage: Inspect the joint for any cracks, spalling, or other damage. Repair any significant damage before proceeding with the sealant application.
Ensure Proper Dimensions: Verify that the joint dimensions are appropriate for the filler board and sealant being used. The joint width and depth should be consistent with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Install Backer Rod (if needed):
Insert Backer Rod: For joints that are deeper than required, insert a backer rod to control the depth of the sealant. The backer rod should be slightly larger than the joint width to ensure a snug fit.
Position the Backer Rod: Place the backer rod at the correct depth, typically about half the width of the joint. This helps create a proper sealant profile and prevents three-sided adhesion.
Prime the Joint (if required):
Apply Primer: Some sealants require a primer to enhance adhesion. If specified by the sealant manufacturer, apply the primer to the joint surfaces using a brush or roller.
Allow to Dry: Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying the sealant.
Masking (optional):
Use Masking Tape: Apply masking tape along the edges of the joint to create clean, straight lines and protect adjacent surfaces from sealant overflow.
Remove Tape After Sealing: Remove the masking tape immediately after applying and tooling the sealant to avoid pulling up the sealant.
By following these steps, you can ensure that the joint is properly prepared for sealant application, leading to a durable and effective seal. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, feel free to ask!
Dseal Below-Grade Expansion Joint System
Product Description: The Dseal Below-Grade Expansion Joint System, manufactured by Dhawan Associates, is designed to provide a watertight, durable, and flexible solution for below-grade applications. This system is ideal for use in foundations, tunnels, and other subterranean structures where water infiltration and structural movement are concerns.
Key Features:
Watertight Seal: Ensures no water penetration, protecting the structural integrity of below-grade constructions.
Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials that withstand harsh environmental conditions and chemical exposure.
Flexible Movement: Accommodates both thermal and seismic movements, ensuring long-term performance and reliability.
Easy Installation: Designed for straightforward installation, reducing labor costs and time on site.
Specifications:
Material: High-grade elastomeric compounds
Movement Capability:
Horizontal: Up to +95mm (expansion) / -40mm (contraction)
Vertical: Up to ±3mm
Lateral: Infinite (restricted by site conditions)
Load Capability: Supports up to 1000kg point load
Finish: Available in mill finish aluminium as standard
Joint Width: Up to 100mm
Applications:
Foundations
Tunnels
Basements
Retaining walls
Other below-grade structures
Benefits:
Enhanced Protection: Prevents water ingress, safeguarding the structure.
Longevity: Built to last, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.
Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of below-grade applications.
For more information or to place an order, please contact Dhawan Associates.
Additional Technical Specifications
Here are some additional technical specifications for the Dseal Below-Grade Expansion Joint System by Dhawan Associates
Material Properties:
Elastomeric Compound:
Tensile Strength: ≥ 10 MPa
Elongation at Break: ≥ 300%
Hardness: 60 ± 5 Shore A
Tear Resistance: ≥ 25 N/mm
Environmental Resistance:
Temperature Range: -40°C to +70°C
UV Resistance: Excellent
Chemical Resistance: Resistant to most common chemicals, including oils, fuels, and solvents
Waterproofing Performance:
Hydrostatic Pressure Resistance: Up to 5 bar
Water Absorption: < 1% by weight
Installation Details:
Adhesive: Compatible with a range of construction adhesives and sealants
Surface Preparation: Requires clean, dry, and sound substrate for optimal adhesion
Joint Preparation: Ensure joint is free from debris and contaminants
Compliance and Standards:
ASTM Standards: Meets or exceeds ASTM D412, ASTM D2240, and ASTM D624
ISO Standards: Complies with ISO 9001:2015 for quality management systems
Packaging and Storage:
Packaging: Supplied in rolls of varying lengths, depending on joint width
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sources of heat
These additional specifications should provide a more comprehensive overview of the Dseal Below-Grade Expansion Joint System. If you need further details or have specific requirements, feel free to let me know!
Evolution of Extruded Expansion Joint Seals by Dseal
1. Compression Seal
Description: Multi-cell Neoprene extrusion installed with epoxy “lubricating adhesive” applied to the joint face.
Advantages:
Premier technology post-World War II.
Foundation for modern extruded expansion joint seals.
Limitations:
Anchoring system relies on adhesive in tension, the weakest method.
Requires force-compression in the joint.
Limited movement due to complex internal webbing.
Compression set leads to permanent loss of backpressure.
Rigid structure and poor anchoring cannot handle vertical differential deflection.
Neoprene thermoplastic rubber cannot be heat-welded; repairs must be glued, which dries out over time.
2. Inflated Seal
Description: Double or single barrier Neoprene thermoset rubber extrusion with joint face-applied epoxy “adhesive-in-tension” anchoring system. Seal is inflated during installation to improve bond.
Evolutionary Advantages:
Reduced interior webbing increases movement range over compression seals.
Disadvantages:
Anchoring system relies on adhesive in tension.
Bond line stressed by vertical deflection, gravel, and lateral movement.
Does not protect joint edge; requires elastomeric header for waterproofing.
Neoprene thermoset rubber cannot be heat-welded; repairs must be glued, which is not UV stable and dries out over time.
Poor extrusion tolerances yield excessive bulk at flexural nodes, stressing the epoxy bond.
Dependent on extremely smooth joint face.
3. Multi-Cell Blockout Adhered
Description: Blockout-anchored multi-cell extrusion with integral punched flanges encapsulated in elastomeric concrete nosing material.
Evolutionary Advantages:
Superior anchoring system compared to compression and inflated seals.
Elastomeric concrete nosing encapsulates punched flanges, using adhesive in shear, the strongest method.
Over 45 square inches of adhesive in shear per foot of seal.
Not affected by minor joint face irregularities.
Disadvantages:
Limited movement due to complex interior webbing.
Rigid structure inhibits vertical differential deflection.
Retrofitting requires cutting of blockouts; new construction can form blockouts.
4. Double Barrier Blockout Adhered
Description: Double-Barrier Santoprene thermoplastic rubber extrusion with integral punched flanges encapsulated in elastomeric concrete nosing material.
Evolutionary Advantages:
Combines high movement of double barrier inflated seal with secure blockout mounting.
Elastomeric concrete nosing encapsulates punched flanges, using adhesive in shear, the strongest method.
At Dseal, we are committed to advancing the technology of extruded expansion joint seals, ensuring durability, flexibility, and superior performance for all your construction needs.
Hospital and Healthcare Expansion Joints
Explore
More than Just Bridging the Gap: Selecting Floor Expansion Joints for Hospital and Healthcare Facilities
At Dseal, we understand that floor expansion joints in healthcare facilities must be engineered to withstand specific movements and stresses. Any failure can be unsightly, noisy, dangerous for people, and harmful to expensive medical equipment. The primary cause of damage to interior floor expansion joints and surrounding materials is the point loads from equipment fitted with hard, small-diameter wheels.
Despite the destructive impact of high point loads on healthcare floor joints, this factor is often overlooked. Many expansion joint manufacturers fail to rate the point load resistance of their products under various wheel types, making it difficult for architects, engineers, contractors, and building owners to make informed decisions.
Selection Criteria
Point load resistance is one of three critical criteria for selecting a suitably engineered floor expansion joint. Whether in new construction or retrofitting failed existing joints, consider the following questions:
Movement: Can this model handle the expected thermal and other movements of the building?
Joint-Gap Size: Does this model have the correct dimensions to straddle the designed joint-gap?
Point Load: Can this model handle the wheel and axle loads from the expected traffic?
Hard, plastic tires, which are most prevalent in hospitals, place the greatest stress on expansion joints. In a survey of the websites of several floor expansion joint manufacturers, only a few provided comprehensive loading data by wheel type for joint systems offered as “heavy duty” or “high point-load.” Many did not mention wheel loading capabilities at all.
Higher Point Load Stress
In hospitals, floor expansion joints often deteriorate faster than expected. This is not only due to insufficient point load capacity but also because hospital operations have been changing in ways that significantly increase point load stresses.
One such trend is “patient-centered design,” which has taken root over the past decade. The goal of patient-centered hospital care is decentralization, bringing services to the patient rather than transporting the patient to centralized locations for medical procedures. This design decreases patient movement, unnecessary staffing, waiting, and errors, allowing patients to remain in the comfort of their rooms.
However, this decentralization means more movement of equipment, as diagnostic and treatment apparatus is transported to patient rooms. This adds expensive and sensitive equipment to the already busy flow of cleaning, maintenance, and food service equipment traffic at hospitals.
Much of this equipment is conveyed by small-diameter, hard wheels, which can and do cause damage to floor expansion joints and surrounding flooring materials that are not engineered to handle the high associated point loads. Equally important is the potential damage to the equipment itself.
Another trend increasing point loads at hospitals is the need to accommodate an increasing number of overweight patients as obesity among U.S. adults has increased more than 60% during the past 20 years.
In his article “Designing for the Obese,” Dave Barista, assistant managing editor of Building Design and Construction magazine, reports the findings of interviews with leading healthcare design experts. Numerous design considerations were advocated, including “everything from wider doorways and heavy-duty beds to patient lifts.” The article also mentions that “bariatric beds should be rated for at least 600 pounds.”
Not included in this article is the impact of these design considerations on floor expansion joint selection. Oversized wheelchairs, beds, and gurneys are increasingly common in hospitals. Bariatric beds can weigh up to 800 lbs empty and, depending on the model, are rated to carry patients weighing up to 1000 lbs.
A combined load, for example, of bed and patient of 1,610 pounds, spread over four, 1-¼” (30mm) wide, hard rubber wheels, would result in a load per wheel of 402 lbs or 321 lbs per inch of wheel width.
1610 lbs = 402 lbs/wheel 402lbs/wheel = 321 lbs per inch of wheel width 4 wheels 1 ¼” wheel width
The Dseal expansion joint system intended to handle this load must be selected for its ability to handle this load without deflection. Compare, for example, the load capacity of 365 lbs per inch of wheel width of the FS 110 system.
Failure to select the appropriate Dseal expansion joint system based on this comparison could result in the specification of an inappropriate expansion joint product.
At Dseal, we are committed to providing floor expansion joints that meet the rigorous demands of healthcare facilities. Our products are designed to handle high point loads, ensuring durability and safety for both people and equipment. Choose Dseal for reliable, high-performance expansion joint solutions tailored to the unique needs of medical environments.
Smooth Joints for hospital floor
Types of Floor Expansion Joints by Dseal
The design of floor expansion joints presents an engineering challenge. They must handle transverse horizontal opening and closing movement, longitudinal differential or shear movement, and vertical differential shear movement. These requirements are similar to the movement demands of wall, ceiling, and roof expansion joints. What makes the design of floor systems so challenging is that they must perform these movement functions while also providing a strong “bridge” that can bear point loads and provide a smooth, quiet transition for wheeled traffic, as well as a slip-free surface for pedestrians.
Manufacturers of floor expansion joints have used a variety of approaches, with varying degrees of success. The available products fall into three design categories:
Rubber and Rail Systems
The most common and least expensive system comprises two extruded-metal (usually aluminum) angles, between which an elastomeric filler is inserted or adhered. To enable expansive and compressive movement, the insert needs to be a soft, elastic material and/or shaped into a bellows form. However, soft materials and bellows shapes are incapable of resisting even relatively small point loads. Because the rubber material is soft, wheels sink in and bang against the metal angle on the far side of the joint. This results in a nasty jolt to patients and medical equipment, causes damage to the adjacent flooring, and results in early failure of the expansion joint itself.
Cover Plate Systems
To provide better point load resistance, a second product category employs a metal plate. The plate can be anchored on one side, can float between clamping plates, or can be held in the middle with a centering bar. These systems provide a stronger bridge than rubber and rail systems, and they are capable of handling small to moderate point loads, although manufacturers regularly fail to provide point load ratings from which to match models to expected traffic loads. Most of these systems are especially poor at handling floor height differences or vertical differential movement, which causes the cover plate to float unsupported at various locations. This phenomenon makes cover plates noisy, and when deformed by the torque of differential vertical movement, can result in a tripping hazard. Additionally, the gaps under the cover plates create cleaning problems, as moisture and dirt collect in the recesses—an unacceptable hygiene problem in a healthcare setting. Finally, because there is a transition on each side of the cover plate, wheels bump twice during transition over the joint.
Solid-Interlocking Systems
A purpose-designed alternative interlocks two extruded metal components in a design that accommodates horizontal opening and closing, as well as differential lateral and vertical movements, while providing high point load resistance. This solid-interlocking system was specifically designed to withstand the pounding from small-diameter, hard wheel traffic, while respecting aesthetic integration with adjacent flooring materials. The design provides a smooth, quiet rolling surface. Integrated gaskets that seal out dust and dirt are also thoughtfully engineered features for hospital environments.
At Dseal, we are committed to providing floor expansion joints that meet the rigorous demands of healthcare facilities. Our Dseal expansion joints are designed to handle high point loads, ensuring durability and safety for both people and equipment. Choose Dseal for reliable, high-performance expansion joint solutions tailored to the unique needs of medical environments.