Mastering Physical Movements to the Building – Expansion Joint Covers  

Building movement, impact and installation

Sponsored by Construction Specialties

The world around us is in a constant state of movement. Buildings must be designed to anticipate movement and provide the flexibility to ebb with this natural state of flow. This course will discuss the multiple types of building movement, impacts to the building, and how a properly installed expansion joint cover system is vital to structural integrity, occupant safety, and optimal facility functioning.

Expansion Joints

Photo Courtesy of Construction Specialties, Inc.

SALESFORCE TRANSIT CENTER Expansion joint covers around the base of each column allow building movement to happen safely and without impacting the surrounding finishes

Originally published in Architectural Record

Originally published in November 2021

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
  1. Describe the multiple types of building movement and the risks they pose to the building, occupants, and surrounding environments.
  2. Explain how architects, structural engineers and installers can work together to plan for building movement to protect inhabitants.
  3. Describe how the expansion joint cover system contributes to building resiliency and occupant safety.
  4. Communicate the role of expansion joint covers in protecting buildings from damage including water and fire barriers.
  5. Incorporate expansion joint cover systems for performance while minimizing aesthetic disruptions.