CELEBRATING 50 YEARS: The Patent That Launched MATRIXWALL
In 2009, EXTECH was awarded a patent that laid the groundwork for what has become one of its most versatile and recognizable systems: MATRIXWALL. This early innovation introduced a glass block screen wall system that set a new standard for flexibility, performance, and aesthetics in industrial and commercial envelope systems. These are standards the system […]
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS: 2019 Modernizing 10 Buildings for Norfolk Southern
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 […]
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS: A Legacy of Innovation and Integrity
Today marks an extraordinary milestone for EXTECH: 50 years of innovation, perseverance, and passion for transforming the built environment through daylighting systems. Since its founding in 1975, EXTECH has grown from a small entrepreneurial venture into a nationally recognized leader in architectural daylighting solutions. Along the way, our journey has been defined by creativity, resilience, […]
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS: 1994 EXTECH Earns First Dade County Approval for Hurricane Resistant Window System
In 1994, EXTECH became the first U.S.-based company to receive Dade County (now Miami-Dade County) product approval for a hurricane resistant window system. This milestone came at a pivotal time, shortly after Dade County implemented new hurricane mitigation standards in response to Hurricane Andrew. The updated codes introduced some of the most rigorous testing protocols […]
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS: Pittsburgh Children’s Museum
In 2005, EXTECH delivered a custom operable facade system for the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. The multi-surface installation introduced movement, light, and atmosphere to the building’s exterior, setting the tone for a new kind of interactive architecture. The concept began with a bold idea: a building that could react to its surroundings and make air […]
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS: Boathouse Vertical Lift Wood Panel System
Set directly on the Charles River, the Harry Parker Boathouse and Ruth W. Somerville Sculling Pavilion was designed to do more than house rowing shells. It was meant to open fully to its environment, welcoming air, light, and activity from the river’s edge. EXTECH designed and engineered the operable façade system for a building that opened in […]
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS: Tech Company Data Center
In 2014, EXTECH played a key role in upgrading a 132,000-square-foot data center for a global technology company. The project expanded the facility to 155,000 square feet while targeting dramatic improvements in energy performance. To achieve this, the project’s architects, O’Brien/Atkins Associates, proposed replacing mechanical louvers with operable glazing. EXTECH brought that strategy to life […]
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS: Skylight Solutions
EXTECH’s 2005 patent introduces a slidable clip assembly that solves a long-standing challenge in panel system design: how to manage thermal movement in skylight and roof assemblies without sacrificing performance or durability. This innovation allows translucent panel systems to flex naturally with temperature changes, reducing wear at connection points and improving system longevity. It is […]
Celebrating 50 Years: Design Solutions in Solar and Retrofit Daylighting
In 2010, EXTECH completed two standout projects that showcased its ability to integrate solar technology and solve complex retrofit challenges in daylighting and roofing systems. Each project stands as an example of EXTECH’s commitment to innovation, adaptability, and real-world design solutions. At the DDC-DEP Remsen Avenue Yard Project in Brooklyn, NY, more than 300 semi-transparent […]
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS: 2008 Patented Innovations in Glass Block Design
In 2008, EXTECH was awarded a patent that addressed persistent challenges in windscreen systems. The invention improved how assemblies handle movement, alignment, and environmental exposure without adding complexity. The patent became the foundation for EXTECH’s Matrixwall system, a modular, mortarless glass block wall designed for performance and precision. Rather than using grout or mortar, the […]