Did you know that building movement must be accommodated while still maintaining moisture protection? An exterior expansion joint is necessary to allow building components to move without causing damage to the structure or envelope systems.
However, expansion joints can interrupt the continuity of the building’s moisture and thermal protection if they are not properly detailed.
Expansion joint thermal and moisture solutions are installed where insulated environmental protection must remain continuous. These systems help maintain the continuity of insulation and the AWRB (air and water-resistive barrier) across the joint.
Proper detailing ensures the exterior expansion joint allows movement while still preserving the performance of the building envelope.
When designing and selecting expansion joint thermal and moisture control solutions, several factors should be considered:
Building assembly type
Transition type
Joint width
Expected movement
The selected expansion joint system must also remain compatible with the overall thermal and moisture protection strategy of the building envelope.
Design TOgether with your structural engineer to determine the type and amount of building movement that may occur within your project. This collaboration helps define the expansion joint requirements needed to accommodate movement while maintaining environmental protection.
It is also important to consult expansion joint manufacturers to identify products and solutions suited to the specific conditions of your project.
Exterior expansion joints must accommodate building movement without compromising moisture protection or thermal performance. Proper coordination with engineers and manufacturers ensures the selected system maintains envelope continuity while supporting structural movement.
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