Expansion joints, also named temperature joints, are gaps set within structures to accommodate the deformation caused by material expansion and contraction. Since thermal expansion and contraction are inherent characteristics of wood, wood-plastic composite will change with weather and humidity variations. Only by reserving adequate expansion joints can it fully stretch. If the gaps are too small, the WPC decking floor will squeeze against each other, or against the wall, leading to bulging and arching of the WPC decking floor. Conversely, if the gaps are too large, the pressure between the WPC decking floor will be too little, making the flooring prone to looseness. Failure to reserve expansion joints could even cause unusual noises when walking on the WPC decking floor.
The Role of Expansion Joints in WPC Decking Installation
In the dry weather of spring and winter, WPC decking installation might seem tightly seamless. However, during the rainy season, it will definitely expand and crack. For the WPC decking installation, it is generally necessary to leave expansion joints; otherwise, the edges will expand and be damaged when the humid summer arrives. The purpose of expansion joints is to prevent the frame or corner tenon from cracking due to material contraction or expansion under external environmental influences, causing the components of the floor to loosen and become unusable.
This gap is called an expansion or contraction joint. It is not a mistake made during material manufacture. On the contrary, expansion joints are a deliberate smart "idea." Its existence plays a significant role in curbing the physical property of wood-plastic composite "thermal expansion and contraction," and greatly ensures the extended service life of WPC decking floor.
Factors Affecting the Size of Expansion Joints in WPC Decking Installation
The length of WPC decking floor during installation.
The temperature and humidity of the surrounding environment during installation.
The temperature variation of the installation environment, evaluated based on the actual environment.
As the saying goes: three parts floor, seven parts installation. Only by reserving appropriate expansion joints during WPC decking floor installation can we effectively avoid problems such as bulging or unusual noises during subsequent use. Top-quality WPC decking floor, paired with premium auxiliary materials, strict installation procedures, and proper maintenance methods, can ensure a project is perfectly executed!
Therefore, reserving certain expansion joints is required for outdoor installation of WPC decking floor to prevent deformation caused by thermal expansion and contraction. Some owners, believing that gaps between WPC decking floor easily accumulate dirt and are hard to clean, request that the gaps be as small as possible during installation. In fact, this is an incorrect viewpoint!
Why Reserve Expansion Joints for WPC Decking Installation
Ventilation and Drainage
Joints allow for better air and moisture circulation, preventing water accumulation or vapor from seeping under the flooring, thereby reducing moisture issues and extending the flooring's service life. Outdoor WPC decking floor will have some common stains on the surface that can be cleaned with water. The gaps in the flooring can cooperate with the drainage under the joist to drain all the cleaned water.
Extend Joist's Life
If the joists of outdoor WPC decking floor stay in a completely enclosed environment for a long time, it will significantly affect their service life. The gaps can provide ventilation and drainage for the joists, extending their lifespan.
