Why is it important to allow for expansion joints in tile installations?

Allowing for expansion joints in tile installations is crucial because materials such as tile, grout, and the substrate they are affixed to can expand and contract due to temperature changes, humidity, and other environmental factors. If these materials are rigidly confined without any means for movement, stress can build up, leading to cracking, popping, or even complete failure of the tile covering.

Expansion joints provide a designated space that absorbs this movement, allowing the materials to shift without causing damage. This proactive measure ensures the longevity and integrity of the installation, significantly reducing the likelihood of costly repairs or replacements down the line.

While considerations such as aesthetic appeal, ease of future repairs, and installation time are important, they do not address the fundamental reason for incorporating expansion joints, which is to accommodate the natural movements of materials in response to environmental changes.