EXTECH® Files for U.S. Patent

EXTECH/Exterior Technologies Inc. of Pittsburgh has announced it has filed for a U.S. patent for the design of its structural glass block wall, floor or skylight system. Previously, a provisional patent was filed.

The company says the glass blocks, available in either 3 or 4 inches and any available size, are suspended within a structural aluminum grid system and sealed inside and out with silicone sealant-no mortar is used in the system. In addition, steel rods pass through the aluminum grid to provide a security/impact wall. If desired, silicone joints can be covered by elastomeric strips that snap on to the edges of the aluminum grid members to provide "perfect joints," according to the company.

In addition, the company says that since grids are custom made and completely fabricated at the factory they are easy for most any personnel to install. While blocks are normally field installed, fully factory units are available.