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Prefabricated Movement Joint Profiles (PMJs) This document serves to assist in the identification of prefabricated movement joints and highlight their nonproprietary characteristics, usage, installation techniques, cautions, and benefits. INTRODUCTION: Prefabricated Movement Joint Profiles (PMJs) have increased in popularity because of their ease of installation and coordination with other profiles being used throughout the tile installation. Tile installers are not responsible for specifying which profiles are suitable for the project or movement accommodation frequency. In the field, it is the responsibility of the design specialist or engineer to detail profile usage according to TCNA Handbook method EJ171. The TCNA Handbook recommends that “all expansion, control, construction, cold, saw-cut, isolation, contraction, and seismic joints should continue throughout the tilework”. In the use of these profiles, note that not every type of profile is recommended in a movement joint or a solution for every situation, and installers should always refer to manufacturers’ recommendations before moving forward on a project.

DEFINITIONS:: • Anchor Leg – extended section of profile adhered to the substrate with bonding adhesive/mortar  Single – profile with one anchor leg adhered to one side of the joint  Double – profile with two anchor legs adhered to both sides of the joint • Anchorless – profile placed at a wall-floor intersection that does not have an extended anchor leg • Tile Edge Protection – a single-legged profile placed at the end of a tile layout, similar to bullnosed tile, to conceal

the tile edge and provide protection against damage. When installed to an exterior wall outside corner, it is adjacent to the movement joint on the other wall plane • Grout Spacer – a protrusion built into a profile and designed to create a space between the tile edge and profile edge for grout • Movement Zone – unadhered section of a profile designed to compress or expand. The movement zone may be mechanical, include soft material, or incorporate flexible sealant

SINGLE ANCHOR LEG

DOUBLE ANCHOR LEG

COVE SHAPED WITH DOUBLE ANCHOR LEG

ANCHORLESS

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NTCA Reference Manual | 2024 / 2025

Chapter 1 | Pre- and Post-Installation Considerations