What expansion joints for tiling on concrete patio?

fabien

Hi Community

we have are in  the middle of a tiling project where we will lay new tiles ( 20 x 120cms) on a concrete patio in a stretcher bond pattern (as shown on picture 2 on upper slab which 2.5 x 2.5m) .

The lower slab concrete patio will follow the same pattern as the upper slab and is ~ 4x8 meters  

I m have been wondering about expansion joints and how far this would be required for the lower slab (not planning for upper slab) -any advice ?

 lower slab ( 4x8m)stretcher bond pattern on upper slab

EricL

Hello @fabien 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your tiling project.

Since your upper slab (2.5 x 2.5 m) is relatively small, it might not require a joint if it's isolated and doesn't receive significant sun or movement, although it's still best practice to provide perimeter relief. For the lower slab, a 4 x 8 m area should absolutely have expansion joints at minimum one running across the width (dividing it into two 4 x 4 sections), and ideally another one lengthwise (making four 4 x 2 sections).

If your patio is fully exposed to the elements (direct sun, rain), these joints become even more critical. Use movement joint profiles or flexible sealant joints and make sure to integrate them cleanly into the stretcher bond pattern, possibly aligning them with grout lines to keep the appearance tidy.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric