A physical junction between two sections of concrete. In flatwork and pavements, it often refers to a longitudinal construction joint or a patched strip where a utility trench was filled. Because the new mix rarely matches the exact color and texture of the old concrete, the seam remains visible.
Heard on the job
The city patched the water main trench, but the seam is already starting to spall.
Related terms
Cold joint
An unplanned seam left where fresh concrete was placed against concrete that had already begun to set.
Construction joint
A planned stopping point between two placements, prepared so the next pour bonds to it or transfers load across it.
Control joint
A planned groove or sawcut that makes a slab crack in a straight line exactly where the crew wants it.