Future-Ready Floor Expansion Joints: Designing for Durability, Safety & Efficiency

In modern construction, floor expansion joint systems are no longer just hidden functional elements—they’re crucial design components that deliver safety, longevity, and peace of mind. At Heard Group, we design systems that seamlessly handle movement while meeting aesthetic, functional, and environmental demands.

1. Why Floor Expansion Joints Matter More Than You Think

Expansion joints are essential in preventing structural damage from movements due to temperature fluctuations, traffic loads, and environmental forces. By absorbing these stresses, they preserve slab integrity and extend the service life of flooring systems.

Heard Group’s designs tackle common challenges—from precise placement and material selection to load handling and installation accuracy.

2. Simplified Specification, Fewer Products, Better Results

Gone are the days of juggling multiple part numbers. Our Light Duty and Medium Duty Floor Expansion Joints each cover up to 60 mm of movement, accommodating around 95 % of typical requirements in retail and multi-storey developments

This streamlined approach reduces waste, simplifies ordering, and keeps projects on budget.

3. Built Tough for Real-World Environments

  • Frames: Structural-grade aluminium extrusions with a 25 µm anodised finish deliver both architectural quality and long-term durability.

  • Centre bars: Made from 4 mm thick 304 stainless steel, they resist corrosion and breakage under heavy loads.

  • Installation-friendly design: Grooved base tracks prevent debris interference; continuous anchor legs ensure consistent fixation and prevent grout intrusion.

4. Choose the Right Duty Level for the Job

Application Suitable Joint Level Highlights
Retail, offices, minimal rebates Light & Medium Duty Up to 60 mm movement; easy retrofit; stainless steel strength
Warehouses, loading zones Heavy Duty 5 mm stainless plates; withstands forklifts and heavy traffic
Large movement, industrial areas Extra Heavy Duty Accommodates bigger movement ranges, ideal for high-stress zones
Polished concrete floors Polished Concrete Series Can be fitted before or after polishing; available Light, Medium, Extra Heavy Duty
Topping slabs and screeds Continuous Angle Leg, Lifted All-thread Acts as formwork to prevent ingress during topping pour

5. Enhance Safety, Aesthetics & Hygiene

  • Slip-resistant options: Select P5-rated stainless steel plates for safer foot and equipment traffic.

  • Minimal visual impact: Options like the Two-Piece Slipper Plate and Carpet Floor Joint create subtle transitions without compromising design.

  • Sanitary environments: Surface Seal systems guard against water and contaminant ingress—perfect for healthcare and food service areas.

6. Designed for Retrofitting and System Integration

Our expansion joints are engineered for seamless retrofit installation, easily integrating with a range of existing systems. This flexibility saves time on site and minimizes disruption—whether you’re retrofitting an existing mall or upgrading a hospital corridor.

7. End-to-End Service and Technical Support

Heard Group doesn’t just deliver products—we deliver solutions. With over 20 years of hands-on design, manufacture, and installation experience, we back our products with expert technical support and comprehensive warranties for both product and installation.
Our emphasis on relationships means most projects come through repeat business and referrals

Heard Group’s floor expansion joint systems go beyond mere gap covers—they’re precision-engineered solutions designed to:

  • Simplify project planning

    Light Duty Floor Joint installed into vinyl floor finish

  • Enhance structural resilience

  • Deliver visual harmony

  • Ensure peace of mind

If you’d like help selecting the right joint system or need assistance with specification or installation, our team is ready to guide you.

Product Code: PCS-LDF80SS – Light Duty Floor Joint

Product Code: LDF80SS – Light Duty Floor Joint