Movement joints are used in long continuous stretches of roofing or vertical sheeting to accommodate thermal and other movements.
When buildings exceed 45 metres in length, movement joints should be included in the stretches of roofing and vertical sheeting according to the BS 8219 guidelines.
Movement joints should be designed to coincide with any structural or movement joints provided in the building, and there should always be a movement joint through the complete system.
Movement joint pieces are fixed to the purlins using the same method of fixing as the roof sheets, with one fixing in the centre of the movement joint at each purlin run.
Guidance on how to install fibre cement movement joints
When constructing a building, it is important to consider the effects of thermal expansion and contraction on long continuous lengths of roofing or vertical sheeting. This is where movement joints come into play. Movement joints allow for the necessary movement of the roofing or sheeting, preventing damage and ensuring the longevity of the building. According to BS 8219 guidelines, buildings exceeding 45 metres in length should have movement joints included in stretches of roofing and vertical sheeting. It is also essential to design the movement joints to coincide with any structural or movement joints provided in the building. This ensures that there is always a movement joint through the complete system, allowing for maximum effectiveness.
To install movement joints, it is important to use the same method of fixing as the roof sheets. One fixing in the centre of the movement joint should be used at each purlin run. This fixing should pass through the gap between the two half sheets and must not be overtightened. It is also important to note that EUROSIX fibre cement sheeting directly below the movement joint should be cut through the central valley of the corrugation to allow for the correct fitting of the movement joint. Each pair of half sheets should then be set so they are 25-30 mm apart. Simply spacing the sheets apart is not recommended.
Product showcase
Straight movement joint
Movement joint stopend
Two-piece adjustable movement joint ridge piece
When choosing movement joints for your project, Briarwood offers a range of options, including fibre cement straight movement joints, one-piece ridges to fit the straight movement joints, and two-piece adjustable ridges to fit the straight movement joints. Briarwood can manufacture and paint movement joints in all colours from their standard colour range, and delivery can be made nationwide directly to the site within 1-5 working days.
