Why Movement Joints Are Essential in Masonry
Movement joints, also known as expansion joints or control joints, are crucial in preventing cracks and structural stress in brickwork, blockwork and concrete. These joints allow for natural expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes, moisture and ground movement. In Liverpool, where buildings range from historic brick terraces to modern commercial structures, installing proper movement joints is essential to preserve structural integrity. Without them, rigid masonry can crack under pressure, leading to unsightly and potentially dangerous damage. At ASRS Ltd, we assess each structure to determine where movement joints are needed, how far apart they should be, and what type is best suited to the building’s materials and age. Whether you’re managing a new build or an older property that lacks proper expansion gaps, our team provides effective solutions that reduce stress and prolong the life of your structure. We’ve worked on a wide range of Liverpool properties and understand how to implement movement joints correctly and discreetly.
Expansion Joints in Brickwork and Blockwork
Expansion joints are specifically designed to accommodate the movement of building materials like bricks and blocks, which naturally expand and contract with temperature and moisture changes. In a city like Liverpool, where weather conditions can fluctuate significantly, this movement is especially common — and if not managed correctly, it can lead to visible cracking and structural issues. ASRS Ltd installs high-quality expansion joints across all types of properties, ensuring that the joints are placed at suitable intervals and finished to blend seamlessly with surrounding masonry. These joints are particularly important in longer runs of brickwork and areas exposed to direct sunlight or damp. For older buildings, we also carry out retrofitting, cutting in new movement joints to address existing cracking or prepare for future movement. If your property in Liverpool is showing signs of movement or cracking along large walls, our expansion joint solutions provide a safe, long-lasting fix that maintains both structural stability and aesthetic value.
Repairing and Replacing Damaged Movement Joints
Over time, existing movement joints can deteriorate, especially if poor materials were used or the joints were never properly installed. In Liverpool’s older properties and industrial buildings, we often see joints that have split, failed or become clogged with debris, allowing moisture to seep in and cause internal damage. ASRS Ltd offers expert movement joint repair and replacement services, restoring their function and protecting your structure from further damage. We carefully remove degraded mastic or compressible filler materials and replace them with modern, durable products that can flex with the building as it moves. This is especially important in areas with repeated freeze-thaw cycles or structural settlement. Whether you need a single joint replaced or an entire building upgraded with new expansion joints, we’ll ensure your property is protected. Our team works cleanly and efficiently, delivering professional results across domestic, commercial and public buildings throughout Liverpool. We bring local knowledge, quality materials and structural expertise to every repair job.
Structural Movement Solutions in Liverpool
Movement joints are a key component in a broader approach to managing structural movement in buildings. ASRS Ltd takes a holistic view of each property we assess, looking beyond surface cracks to understand the forces at work within the structure. In Liverpool, where many buildings sit on varied or shrink-swell soils, this kind of proactive analysis is essential. If you’re experiencing regular cracking in your masonry, windows sticking, or uneven walls, it could be a sign that movement joints are missing or have failed. We’ll identify where the stress points are and recommend the right type of joint — whether expansion, contraction or crack control — to restore balance to the structure. We also collaborate with engineers and surveyors when required, ensuring the work we deliver is backed by structural insight. Our goal is to prevent future cracking before it becomes a costly repair. For reliable movement joint installation and structural movement solutions in Liverpool, ASRS Ltd is your trusted partner.
Call us for help with any of these
Common structural defects, issues and problems
We offer free site visits to both domestic and professional clients to assess the problem and propose the appropriate repair programme, tailored to suit the specific needs of the project. ASRS are approved installers of the Helibeam System, offering cost effective, non-disruptive and concealed solutions to all aspects of remedial masonry stabilisation. Our skilled installation teams are trained and experienced in all aspects of masonry repair. They have been trained to the highest standard in every installation process to cover all H+S requirements. With most of our design and installation specifications we are proud to offer a 10yr indemnified guarantee on Helifix repairs and Micro Piling. We offer a 25yr guarantee for Wall Tie replacement.
Reasons
To trust ASRS
Free Quotation
Helifix Approved
Skilled Workforce
Guaranteed