Installing Expansion Joints for Long Panel Runs

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This guide provides recommendations for installing expansion joints for Trusscore Wall&CeilingBoard panels in spaces with continuous runs of 60 or more panels.

Intended Application

The intended application that would require this recommendation is typically large agricultural barns. These applications often have significant temperature fluctuations where panel expansion and contraction are prevalent. In addition, these applications employ large areas requiring many panels to cover.

Typically, panel expansion and contraction only occur at the ends of panels and can easily be mitigated using an H Channel Snap-in Trim piece, which accommodates both the panel transition as well as the expansion and contraction. However, over the course of long, continuous runs of panels (60+), expansion and contraction can occur on the sides of panels where they interlock with each other causing them to distort and bow outward.

The recommendation to accommodate this is to install an expansion joint along the sides of panels for every 60 panels installed. The expansion joint should be an H Channel Snap-in Trim and should extend the entire length of panels from one end to the other.

Instructions

  1. Install Trusscore Wall&CeilingBoard panels normally as indicated in the Installation Guidelines. 
  2. When installing the sixtieth panel, cut the screw flange off using tin snips before installing. Align the U Channel of an H Channel Snap-in Trim Kit along the entire length of Wall&CeilingBoard panels. If the panel length is longer than 10’, the length of an H Channel Snap-in Trim, you will need to use two trim pieces to cover the length. Ensure to leave a ¼” gap between the panel edge and the U Channel. Fasten the U Channel to the wall or ceiling. 
  3. Continue to install Wall&CeilingBoard panels on the other side of the U Channel, ensuring to leave the ¼” gap.
  4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for every 60 panels installed. 
  5. When finished installing Wall&CeilingBoard panels, return to the U Channel and align the teeth of the H Channel piece with the teeth on the U Channel and press down firmly or use a rubber mallet to snap the pieces together. If using two H Channel Snap-in Trim pieces to cover the panel length, you can use silicone on the trim seams for a more uniform look.
  6. If any panels were ripped, you will need to install an H Channel Snap-in Trim piece into the U Channel immediately on the sides of those panels as well to support them.