Why are expansion joints needed
in tile and stone applications? The basic answer is that in the construction
world everything moves. Therefore, accommodation for this movement is required
to prevent materials from falling apart and causing destructive failure.
It is the Project
Designer/Project Architect/Project Engineer’s responsibility to detail and
outline the requirements for each specific project. Design Professionals have
available to them tables that outline the expansion rates (coefficient of
expansion) of most building materials. In their calculations, they can predict
how much movement will take place on a given project over a specific substrate
using a specific type of adhesive and installation method. As you can imagine,
there are countless combinations. There is no way that an installer can know
which combination is applicable before they walk onto a project.
Some of the factors that affect the movement of tile installations are
as follows. All of these factors cause the tile and stone installation to move.
If this movement is not accommodated for, the restriction in movement can allow
the grout to crack or powder out or the tile to pop up or “tent” up:
- Physical Building Movement
- Shrinkage of Concrete
- Thermal Movement
- Moisture Expansion
- Encroachment of Dissimilar Building Materials
- Changes of Plane
- Treatment of Existing Movement Joints
All buildings will move. Therefore, accommodation for this movement is
necessary. To properly review and place expansion joints, the best time to
discuss and deal with the issue is before the installation takes place. This will
help to avoid problems and finger pointing after the installation is completed.
For more information
on LATICRETE permanent trouble free installation products, training, or
technical advice, contact your local LATICRETE representative on 1800 331 012 -
or email: sales@laticrete.com.au.
Our Holiday Schedule is now available to be viewed here.
Our Holiday Schedule is now available to be viewed here.
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