There are two stitching methods used to repair and strengthen longitudinal cracks or joints in concrete pavement. The first, and most common, is cross-stitching. Cross-stitching uses deformed tie bars epoxied or grouted into holes drilled at an angle through a crack or joint. The second, slot-stitching, uses deformed tie bars grouted into slots cut across a joint or crack. Each technique is beneficial for certain circumstances. Recommendations on where to use these methods are outlined in this special report.

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.

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Sealing or filling transverse and longitudinal joints in concrete pavements is an important consideration for long-term pavement performance. For most pavement applications proactively sealing or filling joints provides a measure of added protection against potential problems, such as spalling, base/subgrade softening, dowel bar corrosion, pavement joint blow-ups, and even some materials-related distresses. However, to gain these benefits the installation and maintenance of the sealants/fillers must be performed with care.

A comprehensive Concrete Pavement Preservation (CPP) strategy can extend the life of aging concrete streets. The City of Minneapolis, facing significant infrastructure challenges from harsh freeze-thaw cycles,
implemented a comprehensive Concrete Pavement Preservation (CPP) strategy to extend the life of its aging concrete streets. By integrating advanced pavement rehabilitation techniques with innovative contracting and a focus on sustainability, Minneapolis has successfully extended the lifespan of its roadways by an estimated 25 years. The program serves as a benchmark for other municipalities, demonstrating a cost-effective, environmentally responsible and long-term solution to urban pavement management.