Q: We have a pavement design using tight “butt” joints between the stone pavers. The contractor is telling us he must have a joint to comply with MIA standards. Where does it state this?

A: In the Marble Institute of America’s "Dimension Stone Design Manual" version 7.1, pg. 14-2, section 2.4, joint widths for horizontal applications are discussed. The use of tight joints is specifically prohibited in this text.  

While we are certainly aware that tight joints are used in certain regions of the United States and elsewhere in the world, we are also aware of numerous problems associated with this practice. Fabrication tolerances, dynamic building movements, and differing thermal expansion of materials are not accommodated in tight joint flooring systems.