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Most flooring types use expansion joints to prevent damage from expansion and contraction. Joint fillers like caulk, rubber, foam, or asphalt reduce tripping hazards and provide a clean look. Latex or silicone caulk is convenient but less durable, while rubber and foam are quick to install and water-resistant. Asphalt-based fillers are durable but pose environmental risks. Some joints use interlocking metal teeth instead of fillers.
Most types of flooring use some form of expansion joints to minimize the effects of expansion and contraction over time. Expansion joints allow the floor to move without damage, helping to maintain the appearance and structural integrity of the floor. Most of these joints include some type of joint filler, which keeps dirt and debris out. Types of joint filler include mastic, rubber or foam inserts, or asphalt.
As temperature and humidity levels change over time, the floor can shift, causing cracks and other signs of damage. The joint filler serves to reduce the risk of tripping over the expansion joint. This gives the floor a clean, finished look.
Various forms of latex or silicone caulk are the most common type of joint filler for interior applications. Caulk is not only convenient and easy to use, but it can be used in joints of any size or shape. It is available in many colors and materials to meet the needs of different installers and can often be painted to match the surrounding surface. One of the major disadvantages of caulk is its lack of durability. It may dry out and crack over time or simply deteriorate due to humidity or other factors.
Rubber and foam inserts serve as another popular form of joint filler. They typically come in sheets or rolls that can be cut to size in the field. One of the main advantages of using foam or rubber is that it is less messy than caulk and very quick and easy to install. These materials also offer water resistance and a clean, uncluttered look in the finished floor joint.
For joints in industrial areas or outdoor spaces, installers often turn to asphalt-based materials due to their longevity and durability. Many from layers of organic felt saturated with hot tar or asphalt, these joint fillers are especially popular in concrete patios and walkways. Unlike mastic or foam, asphalt-based joint filler resists moisture, chemicals, and a wide variety of other elements. Unfortunately, most bituminous products pose a risk to health and the environment because they are derived from fossil fuels. Fumes and runoff from asphalt joint filler can pollute the air and local water bodies.
Some expansion joints do not require joint fillers. Joints used in large concrete applications, such as bridges and roadways, typically consist of interlocking metal teeth that flex as they interact. While this type of joint produces a lot of noise, the metal itself serves as the only filler required.
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