Expansion Joints in masonry walls are provided in wall lengths usater than

Solution (By Examveda Team)

Definition: Expansion joints are deliberate gaps introduced in long masonry walls to permit thermal expansion and contraction, as well as movements due to moisture changes, without causing cracking or structural damage.

Purpose: Masonry, like most construction materials, changes in size when exposed to temperature variations and moisture. These movements, though small in magnitude, accumulate over long wall lengths. If the wall is built without any provision for movement, internal stresses develop. Since masonry is strong in compression but weak in tension, these stresses can easily lead to visible cracks.

Code requirement: As per standard building construction practices and IS 3414:1968 (Code of Practice for Design and Installation of Joints in Buildings), expansion joints should be provided in masonry walls when the uninterrupted length exceeds 20 m. This spacing is considered safe for most climatic conditions to control cracking and maintain durability.

Reason: By limiting the length between joints to about 20 m, the potential expansion or contraction in each wall panel is kept within a range that the masonry and jointing materials can safely accommodate. This reduces the likelihood of structural distress and ensures the longevity of the wall.

Conclusion: In masonry construction, expansion joints must be placed at intervals not exceeding 20 m to allow for natural material movements and to preserve both the appearance and structural integrity of the wall.