Structural Materials

Trim Tex prevents deflection damage in Chicago high-rise retirement center

Feb. 8, 2016
2 min read

The problems resulting from building deflection have likely troubled builders since the very first multistory building. Deflection is the bending of joists, trusses or rafters associated with overloaded structures. Typically, deflection causes unsightly cracks in the drywall along the inside corners where the wall meets the ceiling. Over time, deflection can worsen causing visual concerns, additional maintenance costs and structural problems.

Typical damage caused by building deflection. Without Deflection Bead, building deflection is absorbed by the walls, causing cracking and blisters. 

In Chicago, Denk & Roche Builders noticed that some previously constructed multistory buildings had inside corner cracking due to deflection. When commissioned to complete two 11-story retirement community buildings, Denk & Roche Builders wished to combat unsightly cosmetic damage and structural concerns caused by deflection. To prevent deflection damage, Denk & Roche Builders turned to Trim-Tex Wall Mounted Deflection Bead.

Trim-Tex Wall Mounted Deflection Bead features a coextruded flexible gasket that compresses under deflection pressure, preventing drywall cracks and blisters. To effectively combat deflection troubles, Deflection Bead is installed at the head of wall detail where it can withstand up to 7/16” of deflection movement. If the floor system springs back up the gasket expands back up, keeping it tight against the ceiling. Trim-Tex Deflection Bead protects the inside corner from cracks and pressure due to building deflection without compromising the design of the building. Deflection Bead also saves the building owner money by lowering building maintenance costs and reducing the likelihood of future deflection-related repairs. 

For more information, visit www.trim-tex.com.

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