Expansion joints are special cuts in the structure of the structure, designed to divide it into independent sections. Thus, designers significantly reduce the level of loads exerted on blocks in areas subject to deformation with significant temperature changes and seismic activity. Also def. seams are necessary to protect the building from uneven soil shrinkage. With regard to the installation of seams, a number of guidelines, state standards and norms have been established, the observance of which is strictly mandatory.
To fill them, materials are used that have sufficient tightness, plasticity, elasticity and insulating properties. Special putty, sealant, elastic tapes, waterstops are used as fillers for seams. First of all, joint filling is a necessary measure in multi-storey buildings.
The types of profiles are classified based on the purpose:
Temperature;
Shrinkage;
Seismic;
Sedimentary.

Depending on the tasks assigned to the expansion joint, the profiles can be:
What is the expansion joint used for?
Let's consider the key goals of its application:
Competent arrangement of dividing joints is a measure necessary to effectively control the level of stress generated in the structure of lined surfaces. Their presence serves as a strong guarantee of the durability of the structure. The most important requirement established for the joints is their length through the entire layer of the cladding / base and the obligatory connection with structural joints.

Dividing joints in construction
In the construction of buildings and the design of structures for various purposes, dividing joints play a primary role. Their main purpose is to strengthen the entire structure and protect the structure from the negative consequences of rising groundwater, seismic activity, and mechanical influences. Arrangement of def. seams serve as an additional measure of strengthening the structure, protecting it from damage and shrinkage, which is possible in the event of a change in the composition and density of the soil.
Features of the dividing seams
Each species has its own unique specifics. Consider the types of dividing seams and their functional purpose:
Temperature
They are used to protect the structure from temperature shifts and fluctuations. Their use is necessary even in a stable, temperate climate: due to the transition of temperature from summer to winter, cracks appear on buildings, the depth of which often reaches critical levels. The appearance of cracks can lead to total deformation of both the “box” itself and the base. To avoid such an outcome, during the construction process, the building undergoes seam separation. The distance between the seams is determined based on the materials of construction. The temperature maximum typical for the area is also taken into account. Expansion joints can only be used on wall surfaces, which is due to the minimum susceptibility of the base to temperature fluctuations.
Shrinkage
Such seams are not used as often as temperature seams. As a rule, they are used in relation to monolithic concrete structures. This is due to the tendency of concrete to harden and cover with cracks that can grow and form cavities. If the foundation is literally covered with cracks, from time to time the foundation may not cope with the loads and completely collapse.
A shrinkage joint can only be applied when the foundation is completely solidified. It is strictly necessary to comply with this rule, since the action of this seam is based on its growth and complete filling of the volume until the moment of complete hardening of the concrete. After complete shrinkage of the foundation, the base is reliably protected from cracks.
Sedimentary
Separating structures used at the design or construction stages of buildings of various storeys. For example, their use will be required when erecting a building, the number of storeys of which varies depending on the side (on the one there are three floors, on the other - four, etc.). A feature of this design is that the side with a higher number of storeys will exert much more significant pressure on the soil. Due to the unevenly distributed pressure on the soil, it will certainly sag, which can lead to the gradual destruction of the foundation and walls. Due to the change in pressure, individual sections of the building will be covered with a network of cracks and cavities, as a result of which the building can completely collapse.
In order to prevent the destruction of the structure, builders use a sedimentary dividing joint that strengthens the walls and foundation. Its task is to strengthen the base, along the way ensuring the protection of the walls. The subsidence joint has a vertical shape, thanks to which it reliably fixes every structural element, from the roof to the foundation.
Seismic
Structures serving to increase the seismic stability of a structure. Fortifications of this type are actively used in areas of high seismic activity. In cities that are at risk of earthquakes, tsunamis and landslides, seismic separation joints are an essential element of the building structure. Seismic seams are designed to protect the house from deformation due to ground shocks. Their design is carried out according to strictly individual schemes. As a result of the design, a whole network of independent vessels is created inside the structure, separated along the perimeter by seismic seams. The peculiarity of this design is its special resistance to collapse.
Where to order expansion joints?
ARFEN company specializes in the production and supply of high quality building materials. We provide an impressive selection of dividing joint profiles that comply with international standards.
The range of products presented by us allows you to choose a profile taking into account the key parameters:
material of manufacture;
height, length, width of gasket;
offset compensation;
colors of inserts.
Compliance with international quality standards and the use of innovative technologies allow us to provide customers with a truly rich selection of materials for solving various problems in the field of modern construction and design.
Spacer seams for any purpose
Impeccable quality at a reasonable price is what distinguishes our products on the market. The profiles for expansion joints presented in our catalog are waterproofed and are able to compensate for deformations of varying degrees. The range includes fully sealed profiles, indispensable for the construction of shopping and entertainment centers, warehouses, production and industrial facilities. We offer spacers made of aluminum, PVC and steel. Available in 50/80/100/150 mm widths.
Installation of dividing seams
The seams can be installed both horizontally and vertically. The selection of a structure by standard size is carried out taking into account design solutions and total loads. For the entire model range, detailed installation instructions are provided, as well as video tutorials, which can be found in a special section of the site. To place an order, you can leave a request on the website, as well as contact us at the specified number.
Thanks to the presence of production warehouses and representative offices in Moscow, St. Petersburg and Kazan, we can safely guarantee a stable stock of the most popular models and colors, as well as prompt delivery times for orders throughout Russia. The products supplied by ARFEN comply with international standards.