Caribbean Concrete DeckExpansion Joint Project
Engineered solution for a 500 linear foot expansion joint system in a high-UV western exposure environment
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Caribbean Concrete Deck Expansion Joint
Advanced visualization and analytics for an engineered 500 linear foot expansion joint system designed for extreme UV and temperature conditions.
Interactive Expansion Joint Model
Hover over parts of the model for detailed information.
This interactive 3D model showcases our precision-engineered expansion joint solution. The blue material represents our proprietary Polyurea 3246 sealant, which maintains strong adhesion to the concrete substrate while accommodating continuous movement under extreme conditions.
Rotate, zoom, and interact with the model to examine installation details. Hover over different components to reveal technical specifications and material properties.
Engineering Recommendation
Based on our detailed analysis of environmental conditions and required performance metrics, we recommend our Polyurea 3246 expansion joint system for this project. This solution offers superior longevity, minimizes maintenance requirements, and provides exceptional protection against moisture intrusion in the challenging Caribbean environment.
Project Scope
Site Specifications
- •Concrete deck with western exposure in Caribbean climate
- •Joint Specifications: 500 linear feet × 3/8" width × 1" depth
Project Requirements
- •Total Volume Required: 2,250 cubic inches (≈ 9.74 gallons)
- •Labor Cost: $2,240.00
Interactive Diagram
Hover elements for more details
Interactive Joint Diagram
Environmental Stress Factors Assessment
Analysis of critical environmental factors affecting expansion joint performance in the Caribbean region
UV Radiation Exposure
Western exposure results in 5-7 hours of intense afternoon sun
Temperature Cycling
Surface temperatures on western-facing concrete can reach 140-160°F
Humidity Factors
Condensation potential during temperature transitions: High
Additional Considerations
- •Annual UV intensity: 270-320 W/m² (2-3× higher than temperate regions)
- •Thermal expansion coefficient of concrete: 5.5 × 10⁻⁶ per °F
- •Calculated daily joint movement: up to 0.066" in 50' sections
- •Annual rainfall exposure: 40-60 inches
Material Performance Analysis
Comprehensive comparison of expansion joint materials for Caribbean conditions
| Performance Factor | Polyurea (3246) | Polysulfide | Silicone | Polyurethane |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UV Resistance | Excellent (15+ years) | Good (5-7 years) | Excellent (10+ years) | Moderate (3-5 years) |
| Elongation | >600% | 200-350% | 450-550% | 300-400% |
| Shore A Hardness | 80-90 | 25-35 | 15-40 | 40-60 |
| Tensile Strength | 1500-2000 psi | 200-300 psi | 150-200 psi | 300-600 psi |
| Chemical Resistance | High | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Recovery from Extension | >95% | 85-90% | >90% | 70-85% |
| Application Temperature | -20°F to 120°F | 40°F to 100°F | 0°F to 120°F | 40°F to 100°F |
| Adhesion to Existing Sealant | Excellent | Poor | Moderate | Good |
Material Performance Comparison
Why Polyurea (3246)?
Polyurea provides superior performance in high-UV environments with excellent elongation properties critical for the daily thermal cycling of the Caribbean climate.
- ✓Extended service life (15+ years) reduces maintenance costs
- ✓Superior elongation accommodates joint movement
- ✓Excellent recovery prevents permanent deformation
Scientific Rationale for Polyurea Selection
Technical analysis of why polyurea 3246 is the optimal solution for this environment
Molecular Structure Properties
- •Cross-linked elastomer with stable aromatic and aliphatic segments
- •Minimal UV degradation due to electron-stabilized molecular bonds
- •Absence of ether linkages that are susceptible to photo-oxidation
Interactive 3D model of polyurea molecular structure
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Technical Summary
The molecular composition of Polyurea 3246 makes it uniquely suited for high-UV, thermally dynamic environments. Its cross-linked elastomer structure with stable aromatic and aliphatic segments provides exceptional resistance to photodegradation, while maintaining elasticity throughout the projected temperature range of -40°F to 160°F. The material's high tensile strength (1500-2000 psi) combined with excellent elongation (>600%) ensures it can accommodate the calculated joint movement without failure.
Project Cost Summary
Transparent breakdown of all project costs and materials
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| ASTC 3246 Polyurea (10 gallons, Grey) | $691.00 |
| MixPac 1500ml Empty Cartridge System | $199.99 |
| Additional Mixing Nozzles | $49.95 |
| Labor | $2240.00$1792.00 |
| Labor Discount (20%) | $-448.00 |
| Total Project Cost | $2732.94 |
*Note: Shipping and applicable taxes not included in above total.
Labor Discount AdjustmentLabor discount represents my personal labor cost adjustment to ensure we can fit into your budget. Please make appropriate adjustment.
Cost Distribution
Cost-Efficiency Analysis
Our approach provides significant cost savings while maintaining professional application quality:
Required Materials
Comprehensive list of materials required for successful project completion
Materials List
Joint Filler Material
Description
ASTC 3246 Polyurea Flexible Expansion Joint Filler
Quantity
10 gallons (Grey)
Coverage
Sufficient for 500 linear feet (with 5% waste factor included)
Cost
$691.00
Joint Filler Material Image
Product visualization
Why ASTC 3246 Polyurea?
- ✓Formulated specifically for high UV exposure environments
- ✓Superior elongation properties to handle thermal cycling
- ✓Cost-effective when considering lifecycle costs and maintenance
Application Protocol
Detailed process for optimal polyurea joint filler installation
🧹1. Joint Preparation
- •Clean and scrape joints to remove debris and abrade surfaces
- •Compressed air cleaning to remove dust and loose particles
- •Verification of dry conditions in joints prior to application
- •Optional propane torch drying if weather conditions require
- •Backer rod installation at proper depth to maintain 1:1 width-to-depth ratio
Joint Preparation Visualization
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💡Expert Application Tip
When working in high-UV environments like the Caribbean, plan your application during the late afternoon when joint expansion is at its maximum. This technique ensures the sealant is installed while the substrate is in its most expanded state, preventing excess stress on the material during subsequent thermal cycles.
Project Execution Timeline
Detailed day-by-day project implementation schedule
Day 1: Preparation
UpcomingJoint preparation and cleaning, Environment conditioning and material preparation
Day 1: Setup & Material Preparation
The first day focuses on setup and preparation. We'll lay out the work sections, prepare materials, and transfer components to 1:1 ratio applicator tubes, which will be capped, taped, and set aside. In the afternoon, we'll prep a test section and begin application, taking advantage of the 85°F ambient temperature for optimal material viscosity.
Next Steps
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