Joint seal damage is any condition that enables soil or rocks to accumulate in the joints or allows significant water infiltration. Accumulation of incompressible materials prevents the slab from expanding and may result in buckling, shattering, or spalling. A pliable joint filler bonded to the edges of the slabs protects the joints from material accumulation and prevents water from seeping down and softening the foundation supporting the slab. Typical types of joint seal damage are as follows:
•Stripping of joint sealant.
•Extrusion of joint sealant.
•Weed growth.
•Hardening of the filler (oxidation).
•Loss of bond to the slab edges.
•Lack or absence of sealant in the joint.