least three joints perpendicular to the long wall creating four sepa- rate sections. Running the long edge of the plank perpendicu- lar to the long wall would help hide these expansion joints, and would appear similar to a grout joint. Borders and change of pat- tern can also help you succeed in installing less-noticeable expan- sion joints. Whether they are noticeable or not, they are required by our stan- dards. If you look closely, you can find expansion joints in almost every airport, shopping mall, car lot, etc. There are great installers implementing the standards found in EJ 171 all across the country. The TCNA Handbook says, “The design professional or engineer shall show the specific location and details of movement joints.” If they don’t, reach out to them for information. If it’s just you and a homeowner, show them what the industry says in our standard and create a plan for a successful installation. – Robb Roderick, NTCA Trainer/Presenter ASK THE EXPERTS –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 26 TileLetter | June 2018