Tile the World

Why is your tile Cracking? I bet I know.


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Why did my TILE crack?

Tired of cracked tiles and unexpected pop-ups? Discover the secret weapon against tile failure: movement joints!

Main Talking Points:

The Undeniable Need for Movement Joints:

◦ Why all building materials move. Hear about structural movement and material expansion/contraction.

◦ Understanding differential movement between various materials like tile, mortar, substrate, wood, and concrete.

Movement joints as "stress relievers" in your tile assembly.

◦ The number one cause of tile failure: lack of movement joints.

Planning for Success - Where and Why:

Consulting the design professional and the importance of asking clients about planned movement joints.

Perimeter Joints are a MUST: Leaving a crucial gap at walls and restraining surfaces.

Internal Corners (In Corners): Why grout isn't enough and the role of sealant.

Transitions Between Dissimilar Materials: Protecting tile where it meets wood, metal, etc..

In-Field Movement Joints: Addressing movement in larger tiled areas with proper spacing (referencing TCNA EJ171).

Honoring Substrate Joints: Carrying existing concrete joints through the tile work.

Changes of Plane: Floor to wall and wall to wall considerations.

Sealant vs. Caulk: Know Your Arsenal:

◦ The distinct difference between acrylic-based caulk and silicone-based joint sealant.

◦ Why silicone sealant is superior for tile due to strength and elasticity.

◦ The importance of durability and water resistance.

◦ Mentioning color-matched sealant options.

Sealant must be 100% silicone, urethane, or polysulfide as per EJ17125 .

Proper Installation Techniques:

◦ Emphasizing the need to leave a gap for movement.

Keeping joints clean from mortar and grout.

◦ Using a backup rod for wider joints.

◦ How sealant should adhere only to the sides of the tiles.

The Price of Neglect: Failure is Inevitable:

◦ Highlighting potential problems like tile tenting, cracking, and bond failure.

◦ The possibility of issues arising months or years later .

The Ultimate Resource: TCNA EJ171:

◦ Directing listeners to the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Handbook and EJ171 for detailed guidelines and calculations.

◦ Mentioning ASTM C1193 for sealant application.

Don't let a small oversight lead to big problems. By understanding and implementing movement joints with the right sealant, you can ensure your tile and stone installations stand the test of time. Check out the TCNA Handbook EJ171 for all the specifics!

Subscribe for more essential tile installation tips! Leave a comment with your movement joint experiences!

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