What facade solutions reduce visible joints while allowing necessary thermal movement?

Minimizing visible joints while accommodating thermal movement requires an assembly approach that separates visual continuity from mechanical movement. One effective strategy is the use of large-format panels with concealed back-fix systems: panels are supported on hidden clips attached to a subframe, and thin shadow gaps create a continuous, monolithic appearance from the street while the clips allow sliding for thermal expansion. Continuous shadow joints with engineered reveals are visually minimal yet sized to absorb movement; their consistent width and location turn necessary gaps into intentional design elements. Sliding or floating clip designs—where the clip engages a panel slot and slides longitudinally—permit expansion without changing joint geometry, preserving the façade’s planar look. Elastic gaskets and perimeter seals should be chosen to handle cyclic movement without extrusion or compression set; place them behind the visual plane so the face stays clean. Rigid backers or stiffening ribs can allow the panel skin to appear unbroken while deflection is taken up by the subframe rather than the visible surface. For façades requiring near-invisible joints (e.g., high-end retail), consider interlocking folded edges that overlap but still permit sliding at discrete points. Mockups under temperature cycles are invaluable to validate that joint widths remain stable in service. By architecturally integrating movement details into the subframe and clip strategy, designers achieve elegant, continuous metal surfaces without sacrificing the necessary accommodation of thermal movement.