iChem i345 — heavy-duty aluminum joint designed for high-traffic floors.

• Saw-cut joints: sometimes require sealant

• Preformed systems (i340 / i345 / i348): usually do NOT need sealant

They are executed during the following stages:

• During casting (Preformed)

• Immediately after casting using saw cutting (Saw-Cut)

This is typically done at intervals of 3–5 meters, in accordance with the Egyptian Code.

Control joints manage small shrinkage cracks; expansion joints absorb large building movements.

Control joints are intentional cuts or profiles that control where cracks will form due to shrinkage or thermal movement.

Fill any gap at the bottom of the expansion joint with sand. Then place expansion joint foam over the sand to create a firm surface on which the sealant can properly rest and perform.

n general, the spacing between expansion joints should not exceed two to three times (in feet) the total thickness of the concrete (in inches).
Therefore, for a 4-inch thick concrete slab, the distance between expansion joints should not exceed 8 to 12 feet.

Usually no. Installation cost depends on project size and service provider.

HPL is highly moisture-resistant, but proper installation is essential to protect edges and joints.

Formica is a brand name; HPL is the material category.

Yes. HPL is heat-resistant, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean, making it ideal for kitchens.

Foam additives are chemical materials added to concrete to create small air bubbles within the mix. They are also known as Foaming Agents and contribute to:

• Reducing concrete density.

• Improving thermal and acoustic insulation.

• Making concrete lighter and easier to work with

• High Quality: Manufactured according to the highest international standards.

• Integrated Solutions: Provides modern concrete additives for various projects across Egypt and the Middle East.

• Expert Technical Support: Our engineering team is ready to answer all inquiries and recommend the best solutions.

A: It depends on the concrete type—ready-mix, underground, water-exposed, or crack-resistant. iChem’s team provides specialized consultations based on your project

ChemSeal PU is one of the top Expansion Joint Sealant solutions due to its high flexibility and weather resistance.

Sealant is designed for concrete joints, while silicone is more suitable for water-exposed areas and facades

Yes, all admixtures comply with Egyptian Standard (ES) and meet the Egyptian Code of Practice.

A: Yes, all admixtures comply with Egyptian Standard (ES) and meet the Egyptian Code of Practice.

• Placing the joint in an inappropriate location.

• Ignoring reinforcement of the joint.

• Using unsuitable materials.

• Failing to adhere to the specified dimensions.

• Not inspecting after execution.

Yes, they are designed to accommodate horizontal expansion and contraction, and some types can also handle vertical movement.

Yes, there are Heavy Duty types specifically designed for parking garages and industrial driveways.

Yes, iChem provides a wide range of aluminum expansion joints in various sizes and designs to suit different project requirements and structural conditions.
It’s not only about the width of the joint — but also the height, aluminum thickness, cover type, and the joint’s ability to handle horizontal and vertical movement.

🔹 Details include:

• Multiple width options:
  Sizes start from small joints of 1 cm for interior buildings, up to 10 cm or more for large structural joints in malls, parking garages, and bridges.

• Different profiles depending on floor type:

  • Expansion joints for concrete floors.

  • Tileable profiles that can be installed with ceramic, porcelain, or marble finishes.

  • Flush-type joints that sit level with the floor for a seamless aesthetic.

  • Sliding or movable cover systems designed to absorb large movements.

• Different load capacities:

  • Standard Duty: For residential areas, corridors, and light traffic.

  • Heavy Duty: Designed for parking areas, vehicles, and trucks.

• Indoor and outdoor installation options:
  Weather-resistant systems suitable for roofs, facades, entrances, and exposed areas.

🔹 Custom Manufacturing (Custom Made):
If the project requires a specific size, color, or movement capacity, iChem can provide tailor-made solutions according to approved engineering drawings.

✅ In summary:
iChem doesn’t provide a one-size-fits-all solution — it offers a complete system of sizes, shapes, and designs to meet the exact needs of every project.

iChem offers different types of expansion joints depending on the project requirements, with the most common being aluminum and rubber expansion joints.

Aluminum Expansion Joints:
These joints are known for their high strength and durability. They can withstand heavy loads and continuous traffic, which makes them ideal for malls, parking garages, airports, and commercial areas. They also provide an aesthetic finish, long service life, and require minimal maintenance.

Rubber Expansion Joints:
These are more flexible and are designed to absorb movement, thermal expansion and contraction, and vibrations. They also provide excellent waterproofing. Rubber joints are suitable for roofs, facades, and concrete joints that are not exposed to heavy mechanical loads.

In summary:
iChem provides both types to suit different project needs — aluminum joints for strength and heavy-duty performance, and rubber joints for flexibility and better waterproofing.

A Plasticizer is a normal concrete admixture that reduces mixing water by about 5–10% to improve workability.
A Superplasticizer, on the other hand, is a high-range water reducer that can decrease water content by up to 30%, providing highly flowable concrete with superior strength without affecting final performance.
iChem supplies both types with high quality that meets international standards and helps select the right product based on the project’s requirements to ensure the best concrete performance.

Q: What is PVC?
A: PVC is a flexible plastic used in water pipes, drainage, flooring, and electrical wiring. It is cost-effective and easy to install.

Q: What is UPVC?
A: UPVC is a rigid version of PVC, more durable and resistant to heat and sunlight. It is used in pipes, windows, and doors.

Q: What is Waterstop?
A: Waterstop is a rubber or plastic strip placed in concrete joints to prevent water leakage and protect buildings and reservoirs.

Q: What is the main difference between them?
A: PVC and UPVC are plastic materials for pipes and flooring, while Waterstop is used to protect concrete joints and prevent water leakage.

No, a waterstop cannot be effectively installed after the concrete has been poured, because it is designed to be integrated within the concrete during pouring to prevent water leakage through construction or expansion joints.

Clarification:

Correct installation using iChem products:

• The waterstop, such as IsoFlex PVC Waterstop or Hydrophilic Waterstop from iChem, should be installed in the joint before pouring the next concrete layer.

• It must be securely fixed using clamps or wires to ensure it stays in place during pouring.

Main function:

• The waterstop acts as an integrated barrier that prevents water from passing through concrete joints.

• If installation is attempted after pouring, there will be insufficient bonding with the concrete, leading to waterproofing failure.

Alternative solutions after pouring (if the waterstop was not installed):

• iChem Injection Grouts or Surface Waterproofing Compounds can be used to address leaks, but they do not provide the same full effectiveness as an embedded waterstop.

Yes, iChem products in certain categories of waterproofing materials and concrete additives are suitable for drinking water tanks, but only if the product is certified for use with potable water. Usually, the company issues certificates of compliance with health and safety standards (such as NSF/ANSI 61 or the Egyptian standards for drinking water) for products that can be used inside water tanks.

For clarification:

• Waterproofing & Waterstops: Some types are safe for drinking water, while others are intended for industrial use only.

• Concrete additives: Some additives are designed solely to improve concrete properties, so it is important to ensure that they do not contain substances harmful to water.

• iChem provides flexible joint filling materials such as silicone and polyurethane, which are essential for the effective implementation of contraction joints.

• iChem offers comprehensive concrete joint solutions, including design, supply, and technical support, especially for industrial projects, roads, and flooring.

• iChem products help preserve the service life of concrete and reduce cracks caused by shrinkage.

The Egyptian Code for Expansion Joints requires the installation of expansion joints in buildings, roads, and bridges to protect structures from cracks caused by thermal expansion and contraction or excessive loads. The main requirements include:

• Spacing between expansion joints: Expansion joints must be installed every 20–30 meters in concrete structures to ensure flexibility.

• Types of expansion joints: Horizontal, vertical, and structural joints depending on the project type (buildings – bridges – tunnels – roads).

• Expansion joint filler materials: Must be flexible, resistant to moisture and weather conditions, and provide continuous waterproofing.

• Execution of expansion joints: Strict compliance with engineering designs and precise implementation to avoid future problems.

• Technical supervision: Relying on specialized companies such as iChem Egypt to provide high-quality solutions fully compliant with the Egyptian Code and international standards.

To learn more:

Types of Expansion Joints in Egypt – iChem Solutions

In Egypt, construction projects rely on high-quality expansion joints to prevent cracks and structural damage. The main types include:

1. Rubber Expansion Joints – Flexible, vibration-resistant, ideal for bridges, pipelines, and drainage.

2. Metallic Expansion Joints – Stainless steel or carbon steel, used in industrial pipelines and HVAC systems.

3. Concrete and Filler Joints – Include polyurethane, silicone, or bitumen fillers for roads, slabs, and floors.

4. Finger/Modular Joints – Durable interlocking systems for bridges, airports, and heavy-traffic areas.

iChem Egypt provides advanced expansion joint solutions, technical support, and local expertise to ensure durable, safe, and long-lasting structures.

In 2026, rubber expansion joint prices in Egypt range from EGP 400 to over 3,500 per meter depending on quality, size, and project type. Investing in high-quality joints from reputable suppliers like iChem Egypt ensures safety, durability, and long-term performance, protecting floors, pipelines, and structures from damage caused by thermal expansion and movement.

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The technical support includes all Ichem construction chemicals solutions, such as:

• Marble and ceramic adhesives

• Concrete repair materials

• Welding knife and Waterstop from Ichem

• Waterstop fixing clips from Ichem

• Isoflex PVC

• ChemTile

• ChemTile IP

• ChemTile J

• ChemTile C

• Epobond SF

• Epomortar SF

• MasterSim R20

• SimGrout 920

• ChemZinc 1

• ChemZinc 2

• AcriShield 60

Yes, many companies offer technical consultations, but Ichem stands out with a specialized team that helps clients choose the right materials. They also provide practical training for site engineers and contractors. This technical support improves project efficiency and reduces application errors.

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The factors include the type of chemicals required (admixtures, waterproofing materials, adhesives), technical specifications, project size, and transportation costs. Ichem understands the importance of budget control, so it provides flexible solutions that suit various project needs while ensuring quality.

The prices of construction chemicals vary depending on the product type and the scale of the project. For example:

• Concrete admixtures such as superplasticizers are relatively more expensive.

• Waterproofing and thermal insulation materials differ in price according to specifications.

• Large-scale projects often receive special pricing or bulk agreements.

Prices are also influenced by market factors such as raw material costs and shipping. That’s why it is crucial to work with a supplier who ensures consistent quality despite price fluctuations.

This is where Ichem comes in — offering competitive prices and a wide range of solutions suitable for both small and large projects, with full compliance to international standards and free technical support for contractors and consultants.

Ichem has participated in numerous major projects across Egypt, providing innovative and sustainable concrete solutions using ready-mix concrete admixtures, expansion joints, and high-quality construction chemicals. These projects include:

• Misr University for Science and Technology

• Sour Magra El-Oyoun

• Kidney Dialysis Center

• Tanta Mall

• New Cairo Police Building

• Badr Hospital

• Central Museum of Modern Egyptian Art

• Cairo Business Plaza

• Mostakbal City

Using ready-mix concrete admixtures may slightly increase the cost per cubic meter, but this investment provides significant benefits:

• Improves the durability and long-term strength of concrete.

• Reduces waste caused by cracks or weak concrete.

• Enhances performance under different climatic conditions, such as high temperatures or humid areas.

Ichem’s Role:
Ichem provides high-quality ready-mix concrete admixtures designed to maximize benefits while minimizing additional costs. The company also offers technical consultation and support in selecting the right type and dosage for each project, ensuring optimized performance without significantly increasing costs.

Can chemical admixtures be added to concrete on-site?

Yes, chemical admixtures can be added on-site, but it is generally recommended to add them during concrete batching at the plant to ensure uniform distribution. On-site addition is possible if adjustments are needed, but it requires careful measurement and proper mixing to maintain concrete quality.

If you are looking to increase concrete durability and reduce water permeability in your projects, choosing the right admixture is a crucial step. Waterproofing admixtures help to:

• Seal concrete pores and prevent water and moisture penetration.

• Protect concrete from chemical attack and early deterioration.

• Enhance service life and structural performance in buildings, bridges, and industrial facilities.

Ichem’s Role:
Ichem provides a complete range of ready-mix concrete admixtures specifically designed to suit Egypt’s climatic conditions, while adhering to the highest international quality standards. The company also offers technical consultation and mix design support to ensure the correct type and dosage are selected for each project.

Projects and Services:
Major projects across Egypt have relied on Ichem products, including residential buildings, bridges, roads, and industrial facilities. With Ichem solutions, engineers can achieve more durable concrete with longer service life and excellent performance against water penetration and challenging environmental conditions.

Choosing the right type of admixture depends on the nature of the project, climate conditions, and design requirements. For example:

• Roads and bridges projects: Use admixtures that reduce shrinkage and increase strength.

• Buildings in coastal areas: Use waterproofing and chloride-resistant admixtures.

• Hot climates in Egypt: Use retarders to maintain workability and improve durability.

Ichem’s Role:
Ichem provides a complete range of ready-mix concrete admixtures specifically designed to suit different climatic conditions in Egypt. In addition to high-quality products, Ichem offers technical support and mix design consultation to ensure the correct admixture is chosen according to project requirements.

Services and Projects:
Ichem has contributed to many major projects in Egypt, including residential buildings, bridges, roads, and industrial facilities, offering sustainable and efficient concrete solutions that ensure longer concrete service life and optimal performance.

n hot climates such as Egypt, the rapid loss of water from concrete and the acceleration of the setting time can lead to reduced strength and durability. To overcome these challenges, the following admixtures are commonly used:

• Retarders: Extend the setting time and prevent early cracking.

• Superplasticizers (Water Reducers): Reduce water content while maintaining high strength.

• Waterproofing Admixtures: Protect concrete from moisture absorption and deterioration.

This is where Ichem plays a vital role, offering a complete range of admixtures specifically designed to suit Egypt’s hot climate conditions, ensuring longer concrete service life and optimal performance in construction projects.

You can purchase ready-mix concrete admixtures through specialized construction chemical companies in Egypt.

One of the leading companies is ichem

which provides comprehensive solutions for concrete admixtures suitable for various projects in both Cairo and Alexandria.

Ichem products are known for their high quality, compliance with international standards, and technical support services that help you choose the right type and dosage according to your project requirements.

How to contact ichem?

Email: info@ichemeg.com

Phone: 01080029701 - 01068977712

Or via the Contact Us page on the company’s website.

Ichem’s concrete additives can be used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Infrastructure projects (bridges, tunnels, roads)

• Residential and commercial buildings

• Tanks and water treatment plants

• Industrial and coastal structures

Ichem offers advanced concrete additives that enhance concrete performance and extend its lifespan, including:

• Enhancers for early and late strength to ensure high durability.

• Additives that reduce concrete permeability to protect against water and moisture.

• Workability improvers that reduce water consumption.

• Additives resistant to corrosion and chemicals to safeguard concrete in harsh environments.

Available products include:

• AddChem MF

• AddChem Fiber FG

• AddChem BP Macro Fiber

• AddChem F388

• AddChem Slurry S50

Concrete strengthening additives are specialized chemical materials added to concrete mixes to enhance their performance and efficiency under various operating conditions. Their importance lies in improving concrete’s resistance to environmental and structural factors, increasing durability, and enhancing workability during casting and execution.

Ichem offers a wide range of advanced concrete additive solutions designed in accordance with the latest international standards, contributing to:

• Increasing concrete’s resistance to compression and bending.

• Reducing permeability and enhancing resistance to weathering factors.

• Extending the service life of structures.

• Achieving higher quality with faster and more efficient application.

With extensive expertise in the field of construction chemicals, Ichem provides innovative additives that support both large-scale and small-scale projects, making it a trusted partner in the development of modern infrastructure.

Spiked shoes are essential for ventilating the material during application on the floor. The spikes allow trapped air bubbles beneath the surface to escape, ensuring a smooth, defect-free, and uniform layer while preventing bubbles that could weaken the final coating. Easydeal provides high-quality spiked shoes to achieve the best results.

To ensure professional and effective building waterproofing, it is essential to use the right tools. The most important tools include:

• Paint rollers and brushes for even application of waterproofing materials.

• Cutting knives for precise trimming of surfaces and materials.

• Silicone guns for filling joints and preventing water leakage.

• Measuring tape to ensure accuracy during application.

• Hand mixers for liquid materials to achieve a uniform mix.

• Spraying equipment when dealing with large quantities or wide areas.

Ichem provides a wide range of these high-quality tools, along with advanced waterproofing materials, to ensure the best performance for construction and waterproofing projects in Egypt.

Contact Ichem now to get technical support and expert consultation on selecting the right tools and materials for your project, ensuring efficient and durable waterproofing work.

Yes. The i720® expansion joint is engineered to efficiently accommodate both horizontal and vertical movements. It helps absorb expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes or structural and seismic movements, reducing the risk of cracks and supporting long-term building stability.

What types of finishes are compatible with the i720® model?
The i720® joint is compatible with a wide range of architectural finishes, including curtain wall systems, cladding systems, and gypsum board finishes. This flexibility allows seamless integration into different designs without compromising the final appearance.

Can the i720® be integrated with lighting systems?
The i720® expansion joint is not typically designed for concealed lighting systems. However, it can be coordinated with selected lighting elements, such as spotlights, provided the design is planned in advance to avoid conflicts with architectural finishes.

iChem offers complete solutions for the supply and installation of structural joints, with three flexible options to suit the nature of the project and the client's budget:

• Supply-only: With supply-only service, the client choose the type of expansion joints they require, and we prepare the order at the factory. Then, the client picks up the joints directly from the factory according to their preference. This service does not include delivery or installation, and the client is responsible for taking the joints.

Supply and Installation: An iChem engineer visits the site to inspect and carefully measure the required quantities. We then supply the joints and install them completely using a specialized technical team. With this service, the client does not need to take any steps other than coordinating with us and providing some simple supplies on-site.

• Supply + Installation: In the supply + installation service, the customer purchases the structural joints from iChem and they are delivered as requested. We provide him with a clear lump sum installation price based on the required lengths. The client can request the installation service at a time that suits him according to the site’s readiness.

Yes, at iChem, we offer the ability to design and manufacture fully customized expansion joints to suit the nature of each project. When designing joints, we take into account the following:

1. The type of movement required (horizontal, vertical, or combined).

2. The type of loads expected on the joint.

3. The spacing between joints (contraction or expansion joints).

4. The nature of the surfaces, whether floors, walls or ceilings. 

5. Special sizing requirements depending on the implementation site.

6. The type of materials most appropriate for each case.

7. The engineering details specific to the installation or site.

Our engineering team collaborates with consultants and contractors to ensure effective, practical solutions that comply with technical specifications.

Yes, expansion joints can be installed in both existing buildings and new constructions. But the installation method depends on the condition of the building:

· In new constructions: Expansion joints are included in the design from the beginning. They are installed during construction, following the architectural and structural drawings.

· In existing buildings: Expansion joints can be added after the building is completed and finished, especially if there are problems like cracks or movement between parts of the structure. A technical study is needed to choose the right locations and make sure the installation doesn’t harm the structure or finishes.

Since this kind of work needs high technical skill and accuracy, iChem is one of the first companies to develop solutions that fit different site conditions. The company also provides full technical support to ensure proper installation and safe results.