Movement Is a Design Reality
Denver may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of seismic activity, but movement is a fact of life in every building envelope. From thermal expansion to wind drift and seismic shifts, these forces can compromise structural integrity if not properly managed. For the Legacy Building at the National Western Center, this reality shaped the design process from day one.
That is why Nystrom partnered early with Tryba Architects and the project team to develop an expansion joint strategy that would protect the building envelope for decades. Expansion joints are not accessories. They are essential systems that ensure continuity, performance, and safety.
Denver’s Unique Movement Challenges
Denver sits in Seismic Design Category B, which means seismic forces still influence drift, anchorage, and detailing. Add to that:
- Induced seismic events from regional activity
- Varied soil conditions across the metro area
- Extreme temperature swings between winter and summer
- High wind exposure
These factors create significant movement in building structures. Expansion joints must accommodate thermal expansion, seismic drift, and wind induced stresses, often simultaneously.
The Legacy Building: Big Architecture, Big Movement
The Legacy Building is a showcase of architectural ambition. Its exterior combines weathered steel, Colorado Buff Sandstone, glass, and wood, each with different thermal expansion rates. The building connects physically to the adjacent Livestock Arena and features elevated terraces, long spans, and dramatic gestures that create large, active joint conditions.
Risks Without Proper Expansion Joints
- Waterproofing failures as joint widths increase
- Thermal continuity breaks across metal components
- Condensation risks from discontinuous air and vapor barriers
- Multi directional stresses that overwhelm standard systems
Ignoring these risks can lead to costly repairs, energy inefficiency, and compromised safety.
Nystrom Solution: EJN-EWN Exterior Wall Expansion Joints
To address these challenges, Nystrom supplied 15 inch EJN-EWN elastomeric expansion joints engineered for demanding exterior conditions. These systems do more than absorb movement. They protect the building envelope as a whole.
Key Features
- Continuous weather resistant seal for thermal and seismic movement
- Integrated moisture barrier to prevent water infiltration
- Color options for visual integration with the facade
- Air, water, and thermal continuity across the joint line
By treating expansion joints as part of the envelope and not an afterthought, Nystrom ensures long term durability and performance.
Collaboration Makes the Difference
Installation was handled by Alpha Insulation, whose coordination with adjacent trades ensured proper integration at complex transitions. These are the areas where failures most often occur, and early collaboration is critical. Nystrom approach includes:
- Movement budget analysis during design
- Detailing for multi directional movement
- Sequencing strategies to align waterproofing and cladding
This proactive process prevents weak points and guarantees system integrity.
Quiet Systems. Long Term Confidence
Visitors to the Legacy Building will notice the grand stair, exposed wood structure, and sweeping views of downtown Denver and the Rockies. What they will not notice, by design, are the expansion joints doing their job. That is the hallmark of a successful system: silent, reliable performance.
Best Practices for Expansion Joint Design
- Plan Early – Include expansion joints in schematic design, not after framing
- Account for Multi Directional Movement – Thermal, seismic, and wind drift all matter
- Integrate with Envelope Systems – Maintain continuity of air, water, and thermal barriers
- Select the Right System – Elastomeric joints like Nystrom EJN-EWN handle complex conditions
- Coordinate Installation – Proper sequencing prevents failures at transitions
Why Expansion Joints Are Silent Heroes
Expansion joints rarely make headlines, but they are critical for building longevity. Without them, structures face premature deterioration, energy inefficiency, and costly repairs. By integrating expansion joints early, architects and contractors ensure performance, safety, and aesthetics remain intact.
Related Nystrom Products
- Exterior Wall Expansion Joints
- Roof Expansion Joints
- Interior Floor Expansion Joints
- Exterior Floor Expansion Joints
FAQ: Expansion Joints in Modern Architecture
Why are expansion joints necessary in Denver’s climate?
Denver’s temperature swings and wind exposure create significant thermal movement, making expansion joints critical for structural integrity.
What makes the Nystrom EJN-EWN system unique?
It combines weather resistance, moisture protection, and aesthetic integration, ensuring performance without compromising design.
How do expansion joints affect energy efficiency?
Properly designed joints maintain continuity of air and thermal barriers, reducing energy loss and condensation risks.
Can expansion joints handle seismic movement?
Yes. Nystrom systems accommodate multi directional movement, including seismic racking, for long term reliability.
When should expansion joint planning start?
Early in the design phase. Treating joints as part of the envelope and not an afterthought prevents costly failures later.
Expansion Joints Are Essential for Lasting Performance
Managing building movement is not optional—it is essential for the safety, performance, and longevity of modern structures. The Legacy Building at the National Western Center demonstrates how early collaboration and the right expansion joint systems can transform potential vulnerabilities into lasting solutions. By integrating Nystrom EJN-EWN expansion joints, architects and contractors achieved a seamless building envelope that withstands thermal shifts, seismic forces, and wind loads without compromising aesthetics. When it comes to movement management, trust the proven expertise and innovative solutions that Nystrom delivers. Explore our full range of expansion joint systems and start planning for performance that lasts.
