Title: Concrete Q&A: Dominant Joints in Concrete Slabs-on-Ground

Author(s): Scott M. Tarr

Publication: Concrete International

Volume: 38

Issue: 7

Appears on pages(s): 67-68

Keywords:

DOI:

Date: 7/1/2016

Abstract:
As a designer of industrial concrete floors, I’ve always placed a priority on reducing the potential for slab cracking. One of the approaches I have used is to minimize restraint to drying shrinkage by lowering friction on the underside of the slab. For example, I might specify a layer of sand on top of a crushed stone base to choke off the surface of the stone and create a smooth interface between the base and slab. Recently, however, some contractors and owners have expressed concerns regarding “dominant joints.” What are dominant joints and how can they be avoided?