Everything about Expansion Joints
Expansion Joint Trims General Information:
Expansion joint trims are essential for protecting tile surfaces from cracks. They are used when joining two components with different properties. The need for expansion joints arises mainly due to natural movements in flooring, often caused by changes in room humidity or temperature. Without joint trims, these movements can lead to cracks in the tile surface.
Benefits of Tile Joint Trims:
• Protection against cracks in the tile surface
• A more aesthetically pleasing solution compared to silicone
• Trims absorb movements and stresses
Expansion joint trims are installed in the joint between two adjacent surfaces to absorb tensions and movements. Our trims provide the safest solution for protecting your tiles from stress-related damage.
Expansion Joint Trims and Their Different Materials
Expansion joint trims come in a variety of materials and shapes, typically available in aluminum, stainless steel, and PVC, each with unique benefits suited to specific needs:
Aluminum Expansion Joint Trims for Tiles:
These trims are ideal for areas with moderate load demands and are a cost-effective alternative to stainless steel. We also offer an aluminum cover trim that can be added over existing silicone joints for an easy, elegant, and visually appealing solution.
Stainless Steel Expansion Joint Trims:
Stainless steel trims are highly durable and corrosion-resistant, making them the most robust option. Our stainless steel trims are available in heights up to 30 mm, allowing use with thicker flooring materials. For easy post-installation coverage, we also offer a stainless steel cover trim, which, like its aluminum counterpart, is very simple to install.
PVC Expansion Joint Trims:
PVC trims with perforated legs are the most budget-friendly option. However, they are not suitable for heavy loads, so we do not offer them for standard applications. Instead, you’ll find PVC expansion joint trims for thick-bed installations with heights from 30 mm to 50 mm in our shop.
Hights of Our Expansion Joint Trims
The height of the expansion joint trim should be chosen 1-2 mm higher than the thickness of the tile or slab to ensure a flush finish. Tile adhesive adds a bit of height, and a flush result protects the edges and prevents tripping hazards.
For trims specifically designed for tile applications, we offer heights from 3 to 22 mm. Our PVC expansion joint trims for thick-bed installations are available in heights up to 12 mm.
When Do You Need Expansion Joint Trims?
Expansion joint trims are essential when tiles are installed on different substrates or need to align with existing expansion joints. Our trims with perforated legs prevent deformation on wood and particle board substrates caused by moisture or shrinkage. On balconies or terraces, fluctuating temperatures and weather conditions can lead to cracks in tiles. With our expansion joint trims, you’re protected from these damages.
Expansion joint trims are also indispensable for large-scale applications like shopping centers, halls, or airports, where they absorb movement between tiles and ensure the stability of the surface.
For direct installation in screed or concrete, our PVC expansion joint trims for thick-bed installations offer the best solution.
Expansion Joints FAQ
How high should the expansion joint trim be?
Choose the expansion joint trim 1-2 mm higher than the thickness of your flooring.
More questions? See our full FAQ