In Plain English
Quick Answer
A smooth steel rod placed across concrete joints to transfer loads between slabs without preventing them from moving.
Definition
Definition
A smooth steel bar used to transfer loads across a joint in concrete pavement or flatwork without restricting horizontal movement due to thermal expansion and contraction. Dowels are typically placed at mid-depth across contraction and construction joints and are greased or coated on one end to allow slippage. They differ from reinforcing bars in that they transfer shear loads, not tension.
Context
Why It Matters in Bidding
Dowel baskets and individual dowels are a measurable line item that estimators must price by joint length, bar diameter, and spacing, so missing them in the takeoff understates a flatwork or paving bid. Specifying smooth, greased dowels versus deformed rebar at joints is also a common scope question that drives both material cost and labor for setting baskets ahead of the pour.
Example
Example
An estimator pricing a 40,000 SF warehouse slab reads the joint detail, counts 1,200 LF of contraction joints, and adds 18-inch greased dowels at 12 inches on center plus dowel baskets to the takeoff before sending it to the concrete sub.
See Also
Related Terms
FAQ
Questions Contractors Ask
How are dowels measured for a concrete takeoff?
Dowels are quantified from the joint layout: total linear feet of doweled joints divided by the specified spacing gives the dowel count, then multiplied by unit cost for the bar size and any basket assemblies. Estimators also add labor for placing baskets and aligning dowels square to the joint before the pour.
What is the difference between dowels and rebar in a bid?
Rebar is deformed and bonds to resist tension, while dowels are smooth and greased on one end to transfer shear yet permit slab movement. Pricing differs because dowels often require baskets or sleeves and precise alignment, so substituting one for the other changes both material and placement labor.
Do dowel baskets add cost to a paving estimate?
Yes. Baskets are a separate purchased assembly that holds dowels in alignment, adding material cost per joint plus the labor to stake and secure them before paving. Some specs allow dowel insertion by machine instead, so the joint detail and spec section determine which method and price you carry.
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