What does "construction joint" mean in concrete work?

In concrete work, a construction joint refers to the specific type of joint that occurs when a concrete pour is interrupted. This can happen due to various reasons, such as the end of a day's work, technical limitations in the pouring process, or logistical issues. When the flow of concrete is halted and then continued later, the area where the two pours meet forms a construction joint.

Understanding construction joints is crucial because they help manage the potential for cracking and provide a space for the concrete to expand and contract due to temperature changes. They also allow for proper finishing techniques and ensure that the structural integrity of the overall project is maintained.

Additionally, while other types of joints, such as expansion joints or control joints, may serve different purposes, the key aspect of a construction joint is its nature of being a point of interruption in the continuous pour, which distinguishes it from joints intended for decorative purposes, connections between different materials, or specific types of slabs.