An expansion joint seal system which includes a temperature-activated fire retarding material to protect uncoated edges of substrates. A fire rated compressed expansion joint sealant is provided having a temperature-activated fire retarding material proximate, but below the water-resistant top of the foam, so that when exposed to fire, the temperature-activated fire retarding material expands to protect the exposed vertical surface of the adjacent concrete substrate. The end of the concrete is therefore protected in a manner which does not require joint overlap between the horizontal fire resistant coating and the compressible sealant.