When footpaths are constructed as monolithic concrete ribbons they inevitably crack and displace at joints, due to a number of factors such as tree roots and the movement of reactive soils. Joint displacements result in trip hazards and cracking allows water to reach and weaken the reinforcement within the footpath reducing the footpaths useful life. A number of jointing systems have been designed to reduce these problems.
Tripstop
Tripstop is a double hinged shaped profile made from a special high strength PVC which is designed to be encased in wet concrete with or without reinforcement, to form articulation or hinge joints. TripStop separates the otherwise continuous concrete footpath into separate but linked slabs and acts as a hinge that controls slab displacement (the cause of the danger to people) by combining the hinge with a shear connector.
Related Pages
External Links & References
- Google Search
- Tripstop
- Port Adelaide Enfield FOOTPATH TRIAL using TripStop - Michael Ramsey (November 2017)