Basement Wall Expansion Joint

[N G P]

Hi All,

I need to design a building with 100 m length with basement wall along the length. We cannot afford to provide an expansion joint in the basement wall. Could anyone explain that what all things I need to consider in the design of the wall. The wall is exposed to earth at one side and air conditioned room at the other end.

Thanks In Advance

 

[JAE]

Perhaps consider that the wall might create its own expansion joint?

We would otherwise look at a series of control joints with integrated water stops positioned in line with the anticipated crack - induced by “V” chamfers placed on both wall faces.

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[dik]

Something like... You cannot afford not to put in joints. From experience with parkades... "Do you want a cheap one? or, do you want one that works?"

Dik

 

[dik]

Improved edition based on JAE's comments.

 

[hokie66]

You have two choices, straight cracks or irregular cracks. If you want straight cracks, use regularly spaced control joints (contraction joints). "Expansion joint" is a misnomer for basement walls.

 

[JAE]

Well for a 100m (328 ft.) long building we might have a building expansion joint introduced and this would want to perhaps extend down to the foundation with a true EJ in the basement wall.

For control joints - what say you all about including a floating water stop in the wall?
Or do you simply rely on the outside wall waterproofing system to bridge the cracks?

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[N G P]

The control joints at regular desired intervals and providinf water stoppers will be an option.

As JAE said, since the building is also 100m and connected continously with the basement wall, Should I definitely provide control joint in building extending through the basemnt wall till the raft foundation!