Advice for expansion joints
Obtain advice on expansion joints before masonry work begins
A well-prepared facade design is essential for minimizing the risk of cracking in masonry. Expansion joints accommodate movements in the masonry caused by factors such as temperature fluctuations, shrinkage, expansion, and structural movement.
We therefore recommend obtaining project-specific advice on expansion joints before masonry work begins. This advice should be tailored to the overall architectural design and the specific circumstances of the project.
Who prepares the expansion joint recommendation?
An expansion joint recommendation is a technical, project-specific advisory document. Determining the correct placement and execution of expansion joints is part of the construction project's preparation phase. You should engage a specialized consultancy to prepare this recommendation well in advance. The recommendation must then be reviewed and coordinated with the responsible architect, structural engineer, and contractor.
MBI does not provide free project-specific expansion joint recommendations. Naturally, we remain happy to provide information about our facing bricks, product properties, and general considerations regarding installation.
When should you have an expansion joint plan drawn up?
Do this before masonry work begins, and preferably once the facade design has been finalized. Ensure that the relevant façade elevations, floor plans, cross-sections, and masonry details are available. The type of facing brick used, the brick size, and the chosen structural and architectural solutions are also important for a project-specific assessment.
Important considerations for execution
Recommendations regarding expansion joints are only valuable if the specified joints are actually installed correctly. Therefore, discuss the recommendations with all parties involved beforehand and ensure that the execution aligns with the final structural design.
Even with correctly prepared and implemented expansion joint recommendations, the formation of cracks cannot be entirely ruled out. Cracking can also result from factors such as structural stresses, settlement, movement of façade supports or lintels, detailing, material selection, and site conditions.
Responsibilities
MBI supplies facing bricks but does not supervise the execution of individual construction projects. Responsibility for the architectural design, structural detailing, the selection and placement of expansion joints, and correct execution lies with the relevant construction parties.
For questions regarding structural aspects, detailing, or project-specific expansion joints, we recommend contacting the architect, structural engineer, contractor, or a specialized consultancy firm.
More information
Would you like to know more about our facing bricks or points to consider during installation? Then take a look at our GeoStylistix site information or contact MBI.
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