The causes of external wall tiling defects in Hong Kong

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of the literature concerning the various causes of failures of external wall tile finishes. Design/methodology/approach - A 4 × 3 matrix hierarchy framework is developed for a systematic analysis of the literature reviewed. Findings - The findings from this paper indicate the importance of environmental effects, movement joints, and adhesive on the performance of external wall tile finishes. Thermal and moisture effects induce movement of tiles, and the failure of the tiling system depends very much on the adhesive strength and the provision of movement joints. Workmanship is also a key factor affecting the performance of external wall tile finishes and should not be overlooked. Research limitations/implications - Various studies have been carried out on the causes of defects in external finishes in the past. However, many of them were case-oriented and were not supported by laboratory findings. The hierarchical framework developed in this paper serves as a basis for further laboratory and field studies on this issue. Practical implications - The framework is conducive to the diagnosis of external wall tile delamination. Originality/value - This paper reviews systematically and comprehensively the literature on the causes of external wall tile delamination. © Emerald Group Publishing Limited.