Which joint provides separation to allow movement when expansion exceeds contraction?

The correct choice is expansion joint. An expansion joint is specifically designed to accommodate the movement that occurs within materials due to temperature fluctuations and other environmental changes. When materials expand with heat, the expansion joint allows for this movement without causing stress or damage to the structure.

This joint serves a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the tiling or flooring system, as it helps prevent cracking or buckling that could result from restricted movement. The presence of expansion joints in a tiled surface is particularly important in areas subjected to significant temperature variations.

Other types of joints, such as isolation, contraction, and construction joints, serve different purposes. Isolation joints, for example, separate a structure from surrounding materials to prevent stress transfer. Contraction joints are designed to control cracking due to shrinkage, while construction joints are points at which two sections of concrete are joined. While these joints address stability and structural integrity, they do not specifically facilitate the movement related to expansion. Thus, the expansion joint is the most appropriate choice for allowing movement when expansion exceeds contraction.