Removing expansion joint material after the pour between steps and deck
When we last left this topic at http://forums.finehomebuilding.com/breaktime/construction-techniques/how-form-and-flash-concrete-steps we were going to put 1/2″ foam expansion joint with tear strip between the newly poured steps and the house on one side and between the concrete and the deck on the other side.
The natural slope is toward the deck. Not huge, just 1/2″ over 3 feet, but considering this is a covered walkway, I believe it’s enough. It’s gonna have to be, considering where the doors are and all. As previously mentioned, it’s all a compromise one way or the other.
Anyway, after looking at it today, I decided that I want to leave some air on the low side, between the concrete and the deck, so water can run off the step, dribble down into the gap and disappear under the deck. where it’s been going so far. I need a clear channel all the way down.
I don’t want to use anything I have to leave in place on the deck side, I’d like to use some material I can pull back out and leave a gap when I’m done. Something between 1/4″ and 1/2″ thick that will be easy to remove. Masonite? Plywood?
The area I’m dealing with is 6 feet long x 10″ high for the upper step, and 6′ x 5″ high for the lower step.
Replies
Unless you plan on cutting it out, I'd stay away from plywood or any wood based material. It always swells up so much from the pour that it's nearly impossible to get out when trapped. At least put a taper on it so it may have a prayer of popping out.
other possibilites? maybe sheetrock? at least that's be relatively easy to dig out.
Go ahead and use 1/2" rigid
Go ahead and use 1/2" rigid foam. It is easy to dig out or if you want a no work removal, just pour pvc pipe cleaner on it, and watch it melt out.
Just don't use primer by mistake --
I was going to suggest using asphalt expansion strips, then pouring gasoline on them -- same effect.