Expansion Jointing: Keep Your Brickwork Crack-Free
Looking for expansion jointing for your building project? You're in the right place. These small but mighty gaps in brickwork and paving allow for natural movement from temperature changes and settling, preventing cracks and damage down the line.
What We Offer
Our range includes expansion joints strips, expansion movement joint filler , and movement joint materials for everything from garden walls to major construction projects. Whether you're building a driveway, laying bricks for a new home, or working on something bigger, we've got the expansion joints you need.
Why You Need Expansion Jointing:
Stops cracks before they start
Keeps water out of your external walls
Adds insulation to improve energy efficiency
Allows natural movement as buildings settle
Built to last through all weather conditions
Perfect For:
Brickwork, driveways, patios, garden walls, block paving, new builds, and any project where you need to control movement between materials. Not sure which product suits your project? Our friendly experts are happy to help you choose the right expansion jointing and show you how to use it.
Trusted Brands in Stock:
We stock quality products from Brickfill (2 items) and Fillcrete (4 items) – proven solutions used by professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
A Small Detail That Makes a Big Difference
It's easy to forget about expansion jointing when you're focused on the main build, but skipping it can lead to problems later. Whether you're tackling a DIY driveway or laying bricks on a new extension, adding proper expansion joints will save you headaches (and money) in the future. They're especially important in new builds where movement is expected, and they'll help keep your walls insulated and watertight too.
Planning your next brickwork or paving project? Have questions about where to use expansion joints or which type you need? Just get in touch – our team knows bricks inside out and we're here to help.
Shopping for bricks and blocks? Don't forget to add expansion jointing to your basket – it's a small addition that protects your whole project.
FAQs Expansion Jointing:
What is expansion jointing and why do I need it?
Expansion jointing is a deliberate gap left in brickwork, paving, or construction that allows materials to expand and contract with temperature changes. Without these joints, your brickwork or paving can crack as materials push against each other during hot weather or settle over time. They're essential for any masonry project, from small garden walls to large driveways, as they absorb movement and prevent structural damage. Think of them as a pressure release valve for your building materials – a small investment that protects your entire project.
How often should expansion joints be placed in brickwork?
As a general rule, expansion joints should be placed every 10-12 meters in brickwork, though this can vary depending on the specific project and materials used. For long runs of brickwork or paving, you'll need joints at regular intervals to effectively manage movement. You should also include expansion joints at corners, changes in wall height, and where different materials meet. If you're unsure about spacing for your particular project, it's always best to consult with a professional or refer to your building specifications.
What's the difference between joint filler foam and expansion strips?
Joint filler foam is a compressible material that expands to fill the gap, providing excellent insulation and waterproofing properties for wider joints. Expansion strips are typically thinner, pre-formed materials that slot into joints and are ideal for more precise applications in brickwork. Foam is great for irregular gaps and provides more flexibility, while strips offer a neater finish and are easier to install in consistent, narrow joints. Both serve the same purpose of allowing movement, so your choice depends on your specific application and gap size.
Can I use expansion jointing in my driveway project?
Absolutely – expansion jointing is crucial for driveways, especially block paving and concrete driveways. Temperature fluctuations cause paving materials to expand significantly, and without proper joints, you'll see cracking, lifting, or uneven surfaces within a year or two. For block paving driveways, expansion joints should be incorporated around the perimeter and at regular intervals across larger areas. They'll help your driveway last much longer and maintain its appearance through all weather conditions.
Do I need expansion joints in a small garden wall?
Even small garden walls benefit from expansion joints, particularly if they're longer than 6 meters or exposed to direct sunlight. Small walls can still experience significant movement from temperature changes and ground settling, which leads to cracking if there's nowhere for that movement to go. A single expansion joint in the middle of a longer garden wall can prevent costly repairs down the line. For very short walls under 3-4 meters, you might get away without one, but it's still good practice to include them.
How do I install expansion joint filler in existing brickwork?
If you've noticed cracks or need to add expansion joints to existing brickwork, start by creating or cleaning out a vertical gap of about 10-15mm width using a grinder or chisel. Remove all loose material and dust, then insert your chosen expansion joint filler – foam strips work well as they compress to fit the space. Make sure the filler is set back slightly from the face of the brickwork (about 10mm) so you can seal the front with a flexible mastic or sealant for weather protection. This creates a functional expansion joint that allows movement while keeping moisture out.
Are Brickfill and Fillcrete suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, both Brickfill and Fillcrete products are specifically designed for outdoor construction applications and can withstand all weather conditions. These brands offer weather-resistant, UV-stable expansion jointing materials that won't degrade in sunlight, rain, or freezing temperatures. They maintain their flexibility and compression properties over many years, making them reliable choices for driveways, external walls, and any outdoor masonry project. Both brands are trusted by professional builders and are equally suitable for DIY projects requiring durable, long-lasting expansion joint solutions.