Is expansion gap needed here or not?

[veedee]

A mate and i are redoing my kitchen

Having tiled between two kitchen wall units, i pointed out that he has not left an expansion gap.

However he is arguing that it is not required in this instance

Rather than agree to disagree, i thought I'd ask the forum whether an expansion gap is needed or not?

I am referring to the top two rows

 

[dontbelieveawordofit]

no gap required

 

[johnny2007]

No

 

[bobasd]

As johnny2007 says - its a no.

 

[veedee]

Thanks for clarifying guys

Can any one explain why an expansion gap is not required in this instance? Learning is fundamental

 

[dontbelieveawordofit]

op.there’s every possibility you will get a small crack in the grout line over time between the unit and tiles, especially if theres varying temps and humidity from a hob below, however , most adhesives and grouts these days are flexible. allowing for movement between varying substrates. ie tile flooring and ply upstairs.
a small hairline crack is preferable to shiny black silicone.

 

[johnny2007]

To add to what benny said, the run of tiles between the cabinets is only 600mm from pictures, so even at extreme temperature and humidity change, the movement would be very minimal.

 

[veedee]

Thanks lads. The info's been very helpful