Most warehouses across Singapore are designed for operational efficiency. Unlike roads or airports, warehouse floors usually experience light vehicular traffic and significantly heavier pedestrian traffic. Staff move goods, conduct inventory checks, and walk long distances daily, so flooring needs to support both comfort and functionality.
Because of this mixed use, flooring systems in warehouses must be durable enough to withstand wear and tear while also being safe for staff. Uneven surfaces, cracks, and unexpected floor movements not only disrupt workflow but also pose serious safety risks. That’s where Latham expansion joints come into play, helping warehouse floors maintain structural integrity over time.
What are Latham expansion joints?
Latham expansion joints are structural components designed to allow for controlled movement in concrete slabs, which naturally expand and contract due to temperature changes, load stress, and settling. Without these joints, cracks would eventually form in the flooring, leading to maintenance issues, trip hazards, and costly repairs.
In warehouse settings where cement screed flooring is commonly used due to its affordability and smooth finish, expansion joints play an even more crucial role. Cement screed may look flawless at first, but without expansion joints, it becomes prone to cracking and shifting, especially in Singapore’s humid climate.
Why are expansion joints important in warehouses?
Warehouses aren’t static structures. Even with relatively light vehicle use, the frequent foot traffic and constant changes in temperature and humidity levels can cause concrete flooring to expand and contract. Over time, this can lead to:
- Cracks in the flooring: These not only look unsightly but also damage equipment wheels and endanger workers.
- Water seepage: Once cracks appear, moisture can infiltrate the flooring, which is especially problematic during rainy seasons or if roof leakage becomes an issue.
- Safety hazards: Uneven floors are a tripping risk and can cause workplace injuries.
Latham expansion joints reduce these risks by providing a controlled space for the floor to move and shift without causing damage. Think of them as the “shock absorbers” of your flooring system.
Latham joints and cement screed flooring: A smart match
Cement screed flooring is widely used in warehouse construction throughout Singapore. It provides a clean, level surface ideal for logistics operations. However, while it offers many benefits, cement screed alone cannot handle stress from environmental or structural shifts.
Pairing cement screed flooring with Latham expansion joints creates a more robust system. These joints help prevent the most common problems associated with screed floors, such as cracking, dusting, and edge lifting. In other words, expansion joints significantly prolong the lifespan of cement screed flooring and help maintain its functionality and appearance.
What happens if you skip expansion joints?
Omitting expansion joints might seem like a minor cost-saving decision during construction, but it often leads to larger expenses down the road. Without joints:
- Floors are more likely to crack.
- Repairs may become frequent and disruptive.
- Moisture can penetrate through floor cracks, especially if roof leakage repair is not addressed promptly.
Once water enters the flooring structure, issues multiply. Damp floors can lead to mould growth, affect stored inventory, and even compromise structural safety. In many older warehouses, a common pattern emerges: floors were installed without proper expansion joints and have since required patching or even full resurfacing.
Safety, maintenance & operational efficiency
The installation of Latham expansion joints is not just about protecting the floor; it’s also about protecting the people and processes that rely on it. For example:
- Improved safety: By keeping surfaces even and crack-free, accidents from tripping are minimised.
- Reduced maintenance downtime: Facilities managers can focus on operations instead of chasing floor repairs.
- Longer flooring lifespan: Fewer cracks mean fewer problems, which translates to reduced operational costs in the long term.
And when you consider that many warehouses also install additional protective features like the Acrovyn® wall protection system for hospitals to shield their walls from damage, it becomes clear that floor protection is equally essential.
Conclusion
If you’re running or managing a warehouse in Singapore, think long-term. Installing Latham expansion joints might not seem urgent when the floor looks perfect, but it’s a proactive step that pays off in durability, safety, and cost-efficiency.
For professional installation and warehouse floor maintenance, reach out to Leong Yik Engineering & Contractor. With years of experience in cement screed flooring, expansion joint systems, and structural solutions, we’re equipped to handle all your warehouse flooring needs, ensuring your operations remain smooth, safe, and future-ready.
To include an internal link to article titled ‘Acrovyn® Wall Protection System For Hospitals: Why It Matters’.