Expansion Joint Solutions

It is the most common type of movement and is caused when the structure expands and contracts due to temperature changes.

Recommendation: All expansion joint cover systems should be able to accommodate thermal movement, however, make sure that the selected cover meets the project’s specific thermal requirements.

It is caused by strong winds, which taller buildings are especially subject to.

Recommendation: In conditions where wind sway frequently causes movement greater than 1”, surface mounted plate systems for floors and rubber gasket systems for walls and ceilings are ideal because these types of systems do not disengage, which could cause  a tripping hazard.

It is a dramatic movement caused  by earthquakes.

Recommendation: If your building is in an active seismic zone, you want to choose a cover that accommodates multi-directional movement (expansion, contraction, lateral shear, and vertical displacement) so that building occupants can safely exit when  such an event occurs.

It is caused by the dead and live loads of the structure on the supporting foundations. For example, if you have a project that requires new construction to be connected to an existing building, the new construction may settle at a different rate.

Recommendation: It is important to have a plan for future expansion joint cover replacement should settlement occur.