To seal or not to seal has been a strongly debated question for more than a quarter century. This debate has continued due to the variable performance of installed sealants and the inability to relate sealant condition to pavement performance. Joint sealing has been a process in constructing concrete pavements for over a hundred years, yet the challenge of quality installation continues. With the introduction of the OSHA PM10 regulations (29 CFR 1926.1153), this challenge has become even greater with the need to ensure environmental worker safety.

Sawing joints in concrete pavements potentially exposes workers to respirable crystalline silica dust which may increase the risk of health issues. OSHA has standards designed to protect workers from these risks: respirable Crystalline Silica Standard (29 CFR 1926.1153) and Respiratory Protection Standard (29 CFR 910.134) among others. This Tech Brief is not intended to address the health risks, but instead to provide information on devices which can be used to minimize them.

Calcium Sulfoaluminate (CSA) cement is an advanced cementitious material known for its fast setting, high early strength, low shrinkage, long-term durability and low carbon footprint. CSA is increasingly recognized as a vital component in modern construction due to its significant benefits that align with the industry’s evolving goals of sustainability, efficiency and innovation. CSA cement aligns with the construction industry’s goals by offering a sustainable alternative that meets the demands for efficiency and high performance. Its unique properties enable innovative applications in areas such as rapid repair, pushing the boundaries of traditional construction methods.

This manual has been developed, with permission, from information published by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and the American Concrete Pavement Association’s Concrete Pavement Repair Manual, which was printed in May 2003. It includes joint repair, partial-depth repair (PDR), full-depth repair (FDR) and dowel bar retrofit (DBR).

This summary of a cross-stitch case study by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) details cross/slot stitching to repair longitudinal cracks and restore load transfer efficiency. Techniques highlighted in the study include diamond grinding to enhance smoothness and ride quality, along with joint resealing to prevent water ingress. The combined techniques resulted in a cost-effective and sustainable repair solution, extending the pavement's service life and ensuring a smoother, safer driving experience for motorists.

This checklist for cross stitching for portland cement concrete is one in a series created to guide state and local highway preservation/maintenance and inspection staff on the use of innovative pavement preservation techniques. FHWA uses its partnerships with different pavement preservation organizations including American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, and state and local transportation agencies to promote pavement preservation.