How To

   

How to Perform an Expansion Joint Repair

SlabGasket comes in many sizes & two colors:

Standard
Gray		 Standard
Almond		 Shorty
1/2
3/4
7/8
1-1/8
1-5/8		 3/4
7/8
1-1/8
 3/4
7/8

The standard size 7/8", designed to replace a 1 x 4 expansion joint, is the most common size used.


SlabGasket cuts easily with garden pruning shears, a sharp pocket knife, or a box cutter.


Preparation:

a. First clean out the expansion joint. You probably have a tool at home to do this. People have used tire tools, long screwdrivers, etc.

b. You may encounter the occasional nail when cleaning out the expansion joint. Be careful when removing these items. Wear safety eyewear! It is suggested that you use a hacksaw blade to weaken the edge of a nail before removing it. Otherwise, the nail may be strong enough to break your concrete if you attempt to pry it without cutting it.

c. Small chunks of concrete are easily chipped out with a hammer and chisel. Again, wear protective eye wear! You may also use a diamond masonry blade on your rotary saw to cut nails and smooth or widen the concrete


Installation:

a. Lay the length of SlabGasket along the expansion joint. Press one end into place to secure then move down the length of the piece pressing down every few inches.

b. If SlabGasket sinks too far between the slab then remove and pour sand, fine gravel or a round foam product (commonly called backer rod) to build up the base. You may also want to try a larger size of SlabGasket.

c. Trim or notch the bottom or side of SlabGasket with your pocket knife, box cutter or garden pruning shears in order to pass over or around obstacles which prove to be too difficult to remove.

d. If you need to join two pieces of SlabGasket to finish an area, cut the two pieces at opposing angles and flush together for a more attractive fit. Once pressed into place SlabGasket should be secure.

e. Do not cut the end without first checking to be sure SlabGasket didnt pull away from your starting point. SlabGasket can be removed and reinserted at any time.

f. If you encounter a section that is really snug, spray both sides with a spray lubricant or soapy water and use a dead drop hammer or mallet to knock in. This usually works and allows for a very snug fit. We recommend white or light color rubber mallets to minimize markings on your concrete.


Cleanup:

a. Wait until after the installation is complete to wash or pressure wash your driveway, patio or walkways. There is no need to create a mess before you start.

b. SlabGasket requires no curing or waiting. Walk or drive on SlabGasket immediately.

   

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