Masonry walls typically require which type of joint to manage cracking from movement?

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Control joints are specifically designed to manage cracking in masonry walls caused by movement, such as thermal expansion and contraction, or settling. These joints allow for the natural movement of materials without causing damage to the structural integrity of the wall. By providing a predetermined location for cracking to occur, control joints help to prevent random cracking that can compromise both the appearance and functionality of the wall.

When masonry expands or contracts due to temperature changes or other environmental factors, control joints absorb this movement. They are strategically installed at regular intervals in masonry walls to break them up into smaller sections, which can then move independently. This prevents excessive stress from building up within the wall, reducing the likelihood of unsightly and potentially damaging cracks.

In contrast, expansion joints are typically used in scenarios where substantial movement is anticipated, allowing for ample space for materials to expand; construction joints serve as the interfaces between different pours of concrete; and isolation joints are meant to separate different structural elements or materials, allowing them to move without affecting one another. Each of these serves different functions and is not specifically focused on managing cracking in the way that control joints are.

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