As part of a multi-year effort completed in 2019, EXTECH partnered with Norfolk Southern to upgrade aging window systems at the Juniata Locomotive Shop. This historic facility in Altoona, Pennsylvania, has supported rail operations since 1850 and remains a vital part of the company’s locomotive maintenance program. The project improved energy performance, daylighting, and interior comfort across 10 large industrial buildings. EXTECH delivered a custom combination of daylighting and ventilation systems designed for long-term durability, energy savings, and a clean, updated appearance.
EXTECH replaced outdated steel sash windows across 10 expansive industrial buildings. This ambitious scope required systems that could perform reliably at scale. The project featured EXTECH’s LIGHTWALL 3440 translucent wall panels and TECHVENT 5300 operable windows, engineered with extruded aluminum framing and structural cellular polycarbonate glazing. These systems deliver high light transmission, thermal performance, and long-term durability in demanding environments.
The TECHVENT windows are designed to remain open during typical rainfall, allowing for continuous natural ventilation without letting water in. Combined with the LIGHTWALL panels, the systems help bring in natural light, improve thermal performance, and operate consistently in challenging industrial settings. Their design also supports efficient installation, reducing disruption during retrofit work.
By increasing natural daylight and airflow, EXTECH’s upgrades reduced the facility’s reliance on artificial lighting and mechanical cooling while creating brighter, healthier interior spaces. These improvements also supported Norfolk Southern’s commitment to sustainable operations and energy-efficient building practices.
Alongside performance benefits, the new wall and window systems transformed the visual character of the Juniata buildings, blending a modern aesthetic with industrial durability. This project highlights EXTECH’s expertise in revitalizing large-scale industrial facilities with building envelope solutions that combine efficiency, resilience, and design.
