sion joints is thought to be – by many – the leading cause of fail- ures in the tile industry. With plank installations, special considerations to layout should be considered. Installing expansion joints on the long side is easier, and less noticeable. For example, if you have an installation that is 20’ x 80’ you would need a minimum of at least three joints perpendicular to the long wall creating four separate sections. Running the long edge of the plank perpendicular to the long wall would help hide these expan- sion joints, and would appear similar to a grout joint. Borders and change of pattern can also help you succeed in installing less- noticeable expansion 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 Technical Trainer/Presenter High Quality Metal Trims and Pre-Molded Expansion Joints for all of Your Flooring Needs Call or click today! 800.236.5230 www.ceramictool.com Carpet/Vinyl Trim Reducers Reverse Trim Ceramic Tool MADE IN USA ASK THE EXPERTS –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 26 TileLetter | August 2018