My devices not automatically switching between Airport Extreme and Airport Express in extended network

I have setup an extended network in my home using an Airport Extreme and an Airport Express. The Extreme is connected directly to the FiOS modem and the Express is being used as the extender. The nework is setup fine, but my devices (MBA, iPhone, iPad) are not switching base stations when the signal becomes poor on the one it's connected to. For example, I am upstairs with my MBA and a great signal as I am connected to the Express. When I move downstairs to where the Extreme is setup, the Wi-Fi connection becomes poor even though I am litterally sitting next to the Extreme. To force it to connect to the Extreme, I need to shutoff the Wi-Fi on the MBA and turn back on. At this point, the MBA will connect to the Extreme with a excellent signal.
Any thoughts on why the MBA is not automatically switching?
Thanks for the help!
Brian

The first troubleshooting step for any kind of network "issue" is a complete power cycle of the network. This gives everything a "fresh start" with new connections.
Power off the entire network.....all devices....in any order you want
Wait a minute or two
Start the modem/router first, and let it run a full minute
Start the AirPort Extreme next and let it run a full minute
Keep starting devices one at a time about a minute apart until the entire network is back up
Check the network again with the MBA and report on your results
Do not worry about the iPhone and iPad....they are pretty much hopeless as far as automatically switching from one access point to another....but the MBA should if it is working correctly.

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