"The art of a good contractor lies not just in the execution of tasks but in the value they bring through problem-solving. Armed with knowledge and years of experience, they transform challenges into solutions, elevating every project they touch."

Expansion joints are designed to accommodate building movement—from seismic shifts to thermal expansion—and are present in virtually every structure. The visible covers are only part of the system. Understanding the whole scope matters.

You'll find expansion joints:

• In floors, walls, ceilings, roofs, and façades
   
• At podiums, stair towers, bridges, garages, and towers
   
• In both interior and exterior settings—often where multiple materials or trades meet
   

• Look for the Movement Joints on Structural & Architectural Drawings
  Joints are often marked with symbols or dashed lines but may not be fully detailed.
   
• Check the Expansion Joint Schedule
  It will tell you movement ranges, fire rating, finishes, and sometimes manufacturer names.
   
• Review CSI Sections 07 95 00 and 10 73 00
  These contain expansion joint cover and fire barrier specs.
   

• Count every joint segment by location and type (wall, floor, roof, etc.)
   
• Understand the movement requirements and width—these affect pricing
   
• Clarify who is responsible for:
   
  • Fire barriers
     
  • Waterproofing connections
     
  • Concrete recesses or blockouts
     
  • Coordination with finishes (tile, terrazzo, sheet metal)
     

Expansion joints don’t exist in isolation. Coordination with these trades is essential:

• Roofers & Waterproofing Contractors – for terminations and watertight tie-ins
   
• Flooring Contractors – for matching finishes and recess depths
   
• Sheet Metal & Flashing Crews – for metal transitions and covers
   
• Framers & Drywall – for in-wall joints and ceiling conditions
   
• Firestop Contractors – for tested assemblies and UL details
   

• Joints installed at the wrong elevation or orientation
   
• Fire barriers not installed or installed incorrectly
   
• Incompatible finishes or materials (e.g., tile joints too wide)
   
• Poor substrate prep (out of level, no blockout, poor anchorage)
   
• Unclear scope between trades leading to delays or backcharges
   

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions—many require training or certification
   
• Use the correct hardware and anchor types as specified
   
• Mock-ups and layout walkthroughs help prevent mistakes
   
• Confirm movement capacity post-install—especially at transitions
   

From bid day to punch list, Encore Building Products is here to help you:

• Interpret plans and specs
   
• Match systems to substrates and movement demands
   
• Coordinate between trades
   
• Provide submittals, shop drawings, and support from start to finish
   

• Installation guides & training videos
   
• Take-off templates
   
• Scope of work checklists
   
• Troubleshooting guide
   
• Product data sheets
   

Reach out to Encore Building Products for job-specific support, quoting assistance, and system selection help. We’re here to keep you moving forward—accurately, efficiently, and profitably.

Visit Encore Building Products to get started.