Expansion joint failure is a critical but frequently overlooked facade issue in high-rise and strata buildings. Expansion joints are designed to accommodate movement caused by temperature changes, structural loading, wind forces, and building settlement. When these joints fail, movement is no longer controlled — placing stress on adjacent facade elements.
In tall buildings, failed expansion joints can quickly lead to cracking, water ingress, facade delamination, and accelerated structural deterioration if not correctly identified and addressed.
CPR specialises in diagnosing and resolving expansion joint failure in difficult-access, high-rise buildings using AIMMS™ — our data-driven inspection and analysis system — combined with Scaffold-Free™ access technologies to deliver accurate, long-term remediation with minimal disruption.
Expansion joint failure occurs when a joint can no longer perform its intended function of absorbing and managing building movement. This may involve breakdown of joint materials, loss of flexibility, detachment from substrates, or complete joint separation.
In high-rise buildings, even minor expansion joint defects can amplify stresses across large facade areas.
Understanding expansion joint failure is essential, as it is often mistaken for general facade cracking rather than a movement-control issue.
In high-rise and strata buildings, expansion joint failure commonly affects:
When joints fail, uncontrolled movement transfers stress into walls, coatings, and finishes, increasing the risk of widespread facade damage.
Expansion joint failure in high-rise buildings typically results from a combination of age, exposure, and movement demands beyond original design limits.
Common causes include:
In some cases, bellows expansion joint failure may occur where flexible systems lose integrity or detach due to repeated cyclical movement.
Expansion joint failure rarely occurs in isolation. Left unresolved, it can trigger cascading facade defects, increased water ingress risk, and ongoing maintenance issues.
Early assessment and targeted remediation are essential to protect facade integrity, compliance, and long-term asset value.
