We find that many installers are anchoring on or in very close proximity to control joints (saw cuts, groove / insert joint, construction joints) in slabs-on-grade. At times, based on the application, this is of concern.
I was recently advised that, based on independent tests performed, anchor pullout strength was essentially unaffected when expansion anchors were installed very close to (1”) or on a slab joint.
I am somewhat not surprised given that specific ICC-approved anchors are designed to perform in cracked concrete, however, I am curious as to what your thoughts and recommendations would be on this issue for the use of Hilti Kwik Bolt 3, Kwik Bolt TZ, Hwik HUS and HIT Z w/ HY200 anchors. Does Hilti have an official position on minimum distances from joints (not edge distances) without compromising published anchor strength and performance?
Thanks!
Hi JF,
Typically, engineers consider control joints as an edge as a conservative approach. Ultimately, the final decision and design is at the discretion of the engineer on the project.
Regards,
Paris