Articulation joint
Articulation joint: a vertical movement control joint built into masonry walls to accommodate thermal and moisture movement. Required under NCC Housing Provisions 5.6.8.
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An articulation joint is a vertical gap built into a masonry wall that allows the wall to expand and contract without cracking. It accommodates movement from thermal cycling, moisture changes, and minor foundation settlement. The NCC 2022 Housing Provisions (Part 5.6.8) require articulation joints at a maximum of 6 m centres in straight walls with small openings, and 5 m centres where any opening exceeds 900 mm x 900 mm. Each joint must be a minimum 10 mm wide and filled with a flexible sealant backed by compressible foam or a purpose-made backer rod.
On site the joint must be continuous through the full height of the masonry leaf. A joint that is partially filled with mortar, stopped short of the top course, or bridged at any brick course provides no movement capacity and will cause diagonal cracking in the adjacent brickwork. Incorrect articulation joints are one of the top masonry defects identified in NSW Building Commission site inspections.
Also known as: control joint, movement joint, vertical control joint.
Category: Masonry.
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Last updated: 2026-05-08. Verified: 2026-05-08.