01
Information needed before deciding
Without these details, a single width can be misleading.
- Actual tile dimensions, rectification, calibre and declared tolerances.
- Interior or exterior, floor or wall, and exposure to water, sun, frost or temperature change.
- Substrate type, age, stability and existing joints.
- Panel dimensions, geometry, perimeter, fixed elements and junctions.
- Grout and sealant compatible with the required width, depth and use.
- Project specification, applicable installation standard and documented system.
02
Four joints, four functions
Tile joint
It accommodates tolerances, receives grout and defines the visible grid. Check its width for the particular tile and use.
Perimeter joint
It separates the finish from walls, columns and rigid elements as required by the system and must not be blocked with adhesive.
Movement joint
It accommodates expected movement at locations defined by the project or applicable technical rules.
Structural joint
It must not be hidden or bridged by tile. Its function and continuity continue through the layers according to the project detail.
03
Define and install the joints
Set the module before planning so the drawing, cuts and joints agree.
- 01
Locate and draw all existing structural and movement joints first.
- 02
Define panels, perimeters and junctions from the project documents.
- 03
Check the permitted tile-joint width for the tile, exposure and system; do not copy another project.
- 04
Enter the actual width in the planner before calculating cuts and quantities.
- 05
Keep joints clean, with useful depth and without excess adhesive before grouting.
- 06
Use the material specified for each function and inspect continuity, adhesion and curing.
04 · Stop point
Do not continue when...
These situations need project or technical definition before they are covered.
- A line in the substrate has not been identified as a crack, shrinkage joint, movement joint or structural joint.
- The layout crosses a structural joint without an approved detail.
- The proposal removes tile joints or blocks the perimeter to gain a few millimetres.
- The grout or sealant is not documented for the width, depth, water or movement expected.
- An exterior or heated area has no defined joints or service conditions.
05
Sources and scope
Minimum widths and spacing depend on the full standard and its scope. This guide does not replace them with one universal number.
Spanish reference for bonded tile installation. The summary confirms the edition but does not replace the full standard.
↗NF DTU 52.2, June 2022 · CSTBFrench reference for bonded tile installation. Use the part that applies to the substrate, location and system.
↗UNE-EN 13888-1:2024 · UNE supplementProduct standard for grouts. Product classification alone does not define joint geometry or installation.
↗SikaCeram®-200 FLEX · France data sheetExample of preparation, transfer and application requirements for one product sold in France.
↗06
Frequently asked questions about joints
Can tiles be installed without joints?
This must not be decided on appearance alone. Width and function depend on tile, exposure, substrate, panel and the applicable project documents in Spain or France.
Can I cover a structural joint with tiles?
No. A structural joint must keep its function and continuity through the layers using a project-defined detail; it must not be bridged by adhesive and tile.
Is the same joint suitable indoors and outdoors?
Not necessarily. Water, temperature variation, exposure and panel dimensions can change joint widths, divisions and sealants. Check each location.
07