Trekvoegen

Trekvoegen is a term used in Dutch construction and architecture to describe joints that are designed to accommodate tensile forces and movement within a structure. The concept focuses on maintaining structural integrity when components experience bending, settlement, or changes in temperature and moisture, which can cause pulling or tension in the materials.

In masonry and brickwork, trekvoegen often refers to joints that connect wall segments or that bridge areas near openings and changes in wall thickness. These joints may include reinforcing elements such as metal ties, anchor plates, or flexible fillers to transfer tensile forces across the joint and to allow limited movement without cracking the masonry.

In timber construction, trekvoegen can denote joints that permit natural movement of wood while still transmitting loads. This can involve elongated or slotted connections, slip joints, or other detailing that reduces accumulated tension and prevents splitting or deformation of the timber members.

Materials and detailing commonly used in trekvoegen include corrosion-resistant steel ties, stainless steel anchors, polymer sealants, and elastomeric fillers. Proper installation requires correct alignment, embedment, and spacing, as well as consideration of thermal and moisture movements to avoid overstressing adjacent materials.

Maintenance involves regular inspection for corrosion, loosening, cracking, or seal degradation. Damaged trekvoegen should be repaired or resealed to preserve load paths and durability. Trekvoegen are related to, but distinct from, expansion joints and contraction joints, which specifically manage larger-scale thermal movements.