Laajennysreikä

Laajennysreikä, meaning "expansion hole" in Finnish, is a term used in construction and engineering to describe a deliberately created void or gap in a structure. These holes serve various purposes, primarily to accommodate movement caused by thermal expansion and contraction, or to allow for the passage of services like pipes, cables, or ventilation ducts.

In buildings, expansion holes are often incorporated into large concrete slabs, bridges, and roadways. As materials heat up and expand, or cool down and contract, these gaps prevent the build-up of internal stresses that could otherwise lead to cracking or structural damage. They are typically covered with flexible joint fillers or expansion joints to maintain structural integrity and prevent water ingress.

The size and placement of a laajennysreikä are determined by factors such as the material properties, expected temperature variations, and the overall dimensions of the structure. Engineers carefully calculate these requirements to ensure the building or infrastructure can withstand environmental changes without compromising its stability. In some cases, these holes are also designed to allow for future modifications or additions to the building, providing access for new installations.