Expansion joints in an Ottawa parking garage, how are they treated?

We found no published source on how expansion joints in an Ottawa parking garage should be treated, so the system and the method have to come from the contractor and the product's data sheet, in writing.

Ask the contractor which joint product they propose, what movement and traffic its data sheet is rated for, how they will prepare and repair the joint edges, and how the coating on the surrounding deck will meet the joint. Ask for the number of linear metres, whether the work can be phased by level or by lane to keep the garage open, and for any after-hours work as its own line in the quote.

On the regulatory side, this is likely construction work under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Confirm with the City of Ottawa whether a permit is needed, especially if any structural slab repair is involved: ottawa.ca says structural repairs or alterations need a permit.

A fair quote for this work should specify the joint system by product type with its data sheet and safety data sheet, the prep method and any concrete repair, the number of linear metres covered, the expected closure window drawn from the product data sheet, whether phasing or after-hours work is included, proof of liability insurance.

Before you commit to a contractor for this job, ask them to show you the product data sheet for the joint system they are proposing and confirm in writing what movement range and traffic load that system is rated for.