Bridge Joint Maintenance: An Ongoing Concern for New Zealand Councils

As infrastructure continues to age, local councils face the critical challenge and increasing costs of maintaining and upgrading bridges to ensure public safety and seamless transport networks.

A key component often overlooked in bridge maintenance is the bridge jointing system – a vital element in ensuring the longevity and functionality of bridge structures. By addressing the need for high-quality jointing solutions, local councils can save on long-term costs while enhancing road safety and minimising disruptions to ratepayers.

Why bridge jointing matters

Bridge joints accommodate movements caused by temperature changes, traffic loads, and structural settling. Proper joint systems are essential for:

Structural integrity

Preventing water ingress and material wear.

Traffic safety

Reducing hazards such as uneven surfaces and potholes.

Cost efficiency

Extending the life of bridge decks and reducing maintenance frequency.

Common challenges for councils

Local authorities often face budget constraints and limited resources, which can lead to:

• Delayed maintenance, increasing the risk of structural damage.
• Selection of substandard jointing systems that fail prematurely.
• Traffic disruptions due to frequent repairs, impacting public satisfaction.

The solution: High-performance bridge jointing systems

Partnering with specialised bridge jointing providers offers councils access to:

Innovative materials

Durable jointing products designed for heavy traffic and extreme weather. Besides lasting protection for the structure Nafutekt joints give a smoother ride for motorists and cyclists. There is also a significant reduction in noise emission compared to conventional joints.

Expert installation

Professional services ensuring quick and effective implementation.

Compliance

Systems that meet or exceed national safety and quality standards.

How it works

Durable, waterproof, long lasting elastic traffic joints.

Nafutekt Plus forms durable, waterproof, elastic traffic joints on bridges and load earing structures and accommodates changes in length caused by dynamic loads and temperature fluctuations.

The design of joints in bridge decks has a critical effect on the performance and the service life of the bridge itself. This is especially true of decks with a short span or multi-sectioned bridges. Nafutekt Plus is a more economical alternative to conventional hot poured deck joints that need frequent re-sealing.

The design of the joints on short span or segmented bridges is a detail that has an enormous influence on the service life of the structure. A badly designed and/or poorly executed joint will lead to leaks and the penetration of contaminants as the bridge is subjected to dimensional changes. Combined with the dynamic loads imposed by traffic the damaging effects accumulate. Progressive deterioration of the road surface of the load bearing concrete elements will, if allowed to continue unchecked, eventually necessitate extensive and expensive repairs.

Areas of application

Nafutekt Plus is applied in layers using a “hot-on-hot” technique. A special graded aggregate is heated and placed in conjunction with a hot poured polymer modified bitumen. The resultant joint is durable, flexible and can withstand high dynamic loads while protecting the substrate against the ingress of water and contaminants. The effects on the structure of seasonal and diurnal temperature changes are fully accommodated.

• New & existing bridges
• Expansion and deck end joints
• Sealing hinged joint sections
• Traffic joint sealing of segmental bridges

Key benefits

Nafutekt Plus is a tested and approved road surface joint system using polymer modified materials according to ZTV-Ing. Part 8 Section 2. Also approved for use by the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) for Contracts.

• Cost-saving application with basic equipment
• Fast application means shorter road closures and less traffic disruption
• Significant reduction in noise emission compared to conventional joints
• Durable system resulting in lower expenditure for local and national roading authorities
• Tried and tested since 1989

Our commitment to local councils

At Concrete Solutions, we understand the unique pressures local government bodies face. That’s why we deliver tailored solutions that combine technical excellence with budget-conscious strategies.

Our services include

• Free consultations and site assessments.
• Custom designs for specific project needs.
• Rapid installation to minimise traffic disruptions.
• Long-term maintenance support.

Successful projects and testimonials

From urban flyovers to rural bridge networks, we’ve partnered with councils across the region to provide reliable jointing systems. Our projects have consistently demonstrated:

• Significant reductions in maintenance costs.
• Enhanced public safety and smoother transport networks.
• Positive feedback from both authorities and road users.

Building resilient infrastructure together

Investing in robust bridge jointing systems is a step toward sustainable infrastructure management. By choosing the right partner, councils can ensure their bridges remain safe, functional, and cost-effective for decades.

Contact Concrete Solutions today to learn how we can support your bridge maintenance projects and work toward a safer future for your community.