Yes, expansion joints are necessary because of thermal stresses that occur due to temperature fluctuations. When the structure heats up, expansion takes place. When cooling, the construction shrinks. This affects the masonry and can result in cracking in the façade. To avoid this, it is important to install expansion joints that allow the facing brick to expand and contract without cracking. 

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A expansion joint or dilatation joint is an open joint that accommodates the expansion and contraction of the bricks.

 

Since Lowie Bricks comply with the concrete brick standard in terms of expansion and contraction, an expansion joint is required every 6 metres. 

When in doubt, you can always request a free dilatation advice after ordering. A dilation advice includes advice on where dilation joints are best placed. It takes into account the places where the façade is weaker due to, for example, window openings or places where there are transitions to other building parts.​​

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