Help with extending a network using AirPort Express

I am UK based and have BT Infinity Internet connection. I have a BT NTE which provides an ethernet connection for my home network. I have an AirPort Express 2nd Gen setup to provide initial router etc with the local LAN port connected to a 24 port gigabit switch. I have structured cabling providing ethernet ports in each room.
PC's etc are configured as fixed IP in the rooms they are in and connect via ethernet, however, my wifi (because of the construction of the house) is very poor especially upstairs and at the back of the house.
I have setup a second AirPort Express at the back of the house connected via the ethernet port, assigned a static IP, configured bridge mode, and setup Extended Network. However, my internal network is now very flacky, wifi keeps dropping out, Internet access for all devices is up and down, in short, it's unusable. However, If I use the second AirPort Express in Join a Network mode it appears to be more stable!
So Q1 - What is the difference between Extend a Network (via ethernet) and Join a Network (via ethernet) and what are the benefits of both? (which one should I be using?)
and Q2 - assuming Q1 is Extend a Network is the correct way to go, can someone please explain in complete detail the exact process and configuration for this to work effectively? If I can extend correctly I am looking at adding a third AirPort Express in the garage so I have wifi access in the garden and in the garage.
Many thanks for all assistance
Nick

resolved - see Proper way to setup two airport express and router in a single wireless network

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