MOVEMENT JOINTS - THINGS TO BEAR IN MIND
29 May 2024 17:21
So you have chosen your desired tile and probably spent a fortune! Now all you have to do is simply lay them! Easy right?!
Not quite! Hard flooring expands and contracts naturally so it is imperative that you use a movement joint. A movement joint, also known as an expansion joint is an intentional interruption in the tile or stone surface. Without the inclusion of these joints your tiles and grout can crack or de-bond, creating an unsightly floor or an expensive maintenance bill!
Movement joints are stress relieving, they allow the floor or wall to be divided and separated into smaller sections. A tiled surface is of course rigid in design, any movement will cause damage to your tiles. So it's agreed that it's always best to include movement joints in your project but we would always advise that you plan their installation before starting your project. This will enable each tiled section to move effectively and separately without damage to the surface. Each tile is of course solid by design, this is a set parameter. However the surface on which the tiles are laid can change due to many factors. Settling, weight loading, moisture, temperature and even footfall. This surface will expand and contract depending on changes in the environment. These changes of course affect the rigid tiles.
Our movement joints allow you to insert a division within the rigid surface and are designed cleverly to absorb various sources. Imagine a grid made up of smaller sections or bays. By inserting these dividers the tiled surface is able to withstand cracking, tenting or even de-bonding. However fitted incorrectly or in the wrong place, a movement joint simply will not work!