A technique for protecting joints in pavement structures includes applying a hardener/densifier to one or more surfaces that define a joint in a pavement structure and, optionally, to portions of one or more surfaces that are located adjacent to the joint. One or more other compounds, such as hydrophobic materials, water resistant materials, anti scaling compounds, anti wear compounds, multi functional blended compositions and the like, may also be applied to the surfaces that define a joint and/or to portions of one or more surfaces that are adjacent to the joint. A seal may also be formed in a joint in a pavement structure. Joints that have been protected in accordance with teachings of this disclosure are also disclosed.