In commercial construction, building codes typically specify the placement of a control/expansion joint at least every 30 feet along unbroken partitions, including both walls and ceilings. (Many experienced residential builders will follow these same guidelines.) This is typically achieved with an expansion bead, and traditionally supplemented by additional backing materials for fire-rated control joints. Learn More About Trim-Tex ExpansionsHere’s your roadmap to Trim-Tex’s expanded expansions lineup—including a how-to guide for installing all three offerings and a multi-family case study from Wisconsin’s tallest residential tower.
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From simple to subtle fire rated, Trim-Tex has you covered with a range of expansion beads to keep walls looking clean and crack-free for a long time to come. In this video, we’ll explain the differences between each bead and show how each is installed. Discover more in this ultimate guide to expansions.
In Milwaukee’s tallest residential high-rise, each open-concept unit features long, unbroken walls—and longer walls mean more expansion joints. With so many expansion joints located all over their building, the project’s architects wanted to keep them as subtle as possible, a perfect fit for Trim-Tex’s subtler Hideaway Expansion Bead. Learn more in the full case study.
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These expansion beads must remain flexible for the continued efficacy of the control joint, which is why vinyl beads reign supreme in this category.Expansion beads are among the most popular types of specialty drywall accessories in Trim-Tex’s entire catalog. It’s not hard to see why: you cannot beat the flexibility of vinyl materials for expansion joints, where allowing for some controlled movement is crucial to avoid finish cracking, or worse damage. Trim-Tex, the leading manufacturer of finishing beads and accessories, offers three of these expansion beads: 093V Expansion, Hideaway Expansion and the Fire Rated 093V Expansion. Each of these beads promises to be easier to use, faster to install and more permanently pliable than comparable products on the market—with the fire-rated version eliminating the need for added backing materials entirely. Read on to find out which option may be best suited for your next project.
093V Expansion
Control joints have met their match! This bead is meticulously crafted of both rigid and flexible PVC to create a deep “V” that flexes to accommodate 3/8” in building movement. Tear-off strips make finishing easy. Delivers high-performance ratings for smoke and sound.
Fire Rated 093V Expansion
Building out fire rated control joints on wall assemblies using traditional methods is costly and time consuming. Trim-Tex’s fire-rated expansion bead revolutionizes this process. Integrated intumescent tape rated for 1 and 2 hours, and the flexible bead accommodates up to 3/8” in building movement. This product is UL GREENGUARD Gold Certified.
Hideaway Expansion
This expansion bead features a shallow profile while still accommodating up to 3/8” in building movement thanks to its rigid and flexible PVC construction. Finish is a breeze with its tear-off strips. The finish result produces a very stealthy control joint.