Lessons in movement joints

Gain the knowledge and confidence in specifying appropriate movement joints and uncoupling membranes to counteract stresses in the substrate such as drying shrinkage, deflection and moisture movement to prevent future problems such as failed sealed connections, cracked tiles and joints etc.

Introduction

Substrates for tile and stone expand and contract with changes in temperature and moisture. In addition to this, stresses in the substrate can all lead to loss of adhesion, resulting in bulging and/or cracking of the tile covering. Through this CPD we examine the solutions to these potential problems in the specification of appropriate products.

This CPD directly addresses:

What are movement joints and why should we use them?
Where to locate movement joints and how to specify the right ones for specific applications?
What’s uncoupling and what are the features of modern uncoupling membranes?
The multi functions of modern uncoupling membranes.
Where should they be used and what is the best practice for installation?
Other factors to consider for specification such as costs and environmental issues.

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Movement joints explained

There are four different types of movement joints: structural, intermediate, perimeter and connection. Each of these types requires a different specification:

Wall expansion joints – best practice and British Standards
Floor movement joints – best practice and British Standards
Heated floor movement joints
Problems and solutions for corners and connections
Problems and solutions for intermediate movement joints.

The multiple functions of uncoupling membranes

Tile and stone have been successfully installed for thousands of years by incorporating an uncoupling layer, or forgiving shear interface, between the surface covering and the substrate. Modern polyethylene uncoupling membranes can be specified for almost all types of substrates, provided the substrate is structurally sound, clean and even. The incorporation of a modern uncoupling membrane accommodates the stresses between the substrate and the tiled floor. This CPD seminar covers how different types of bonded uncoupling membranes are designed for different intended applications: