The contraction joint spacing rule is described as spacing in feet should be 2-3 times slab thickness in inches. Which option correctly states this rule?

• A. Spacing in feet should be 2-3 times slab thickness in inches
• B. Spacing in inches should be 2-3 times slab thickness in feet
• C. Spacing in feet should be 1-2 times slab thickness in inches
• D. Spacing in inches should be 4-5 times slab thickness in inches

Answer: (A)

Contraction joints are placed to control where cracks form as concrete shrinks during drying, so the spacing is tied to how thick the slab is. The rule uses spacing in feet equal to 2 to 3 times the slab thickness in inches, meaning a thicker slab gets wider joint spacing. For example, a 6-inch slab would have joints about 12 to 18 feet apart. This approach provides a practical, reliable crack-control pattern. The other formulations would either swap units (using inches for spacing when thickness is in inches) or use an incorrect multiplier, which would change the spacing to an improper distance.