Dextall's factory-built wall panels include structure, insulation, windows, fireproofing, and cladding, and are delivered ready to install for new construction and retrofits, reducing construction timelines by up to 80% and costs by 15-20% while supporting code compliance, including Local Law 97.
Dextall
Prefabricated Exterior Panel System
High-performance, light-gauge steel-framed wall panel installed on the building exterior delivering improved facades and thermal insulation.
Description
Dextall's prefabricated D-Wall panel system creates an airtight and watertight facade that improves the building envelope's thermal performance, enhancing indoor temperature regulation and reducing energy costs. The high-performance, light-gauge steel-framed wall panel comes factory-integrated with cladding, windows, and non-combustible insulation. It can also improve the building facade, achieving long-term compliance with NYC's Local Law 11.
Use Cases
Reduce building energy/utility costs
Upgrade building envelope
Insulate building/unit
Upgrade building facade while integrating heat pumps/PTACS
Achieve local law 11 compliance
Regulate indoor temperature
Cost Savings
Dextall anticipates an overall reduction in utility output due to the building envelope's increased thermal performance. One recent project realized a 54% reduction in site energy use.
Key Differentiators
Reduced timelines, costs + labor - Dextall's prefabricated, unitized wall panels and AI/BIM-assisted design cuts timelines by over 80%, reduces costs by 15-20%, and lowers labor needs by up to 20x
Proven energy efficiency - Panels are pretested for energy efficiency and durability, avoiding the trial-and-error of traditional retrofits
Slashed emissions + waste - Centralized manufacturing, fewer deliveries, and software-driven material optimization reduce emissions and construction waste to 3-5%, compared to ~30% on typical sites. Panels can be dismantled, reused, and designed to minimize offcuts, supporting more eco-friendly building practices.
Minimally-disruptive installation - The panel system can be installed with tenants/residents in place, minimizing tenant disruption
About
Decarbonization Impacts
Operational Emissions
The technology reduces operational carbon emissions by significantly lowering heating and cooling demand through high R-value wall systems, which measure a material’s resistance to heat flow and exceed energy code requirements by up to 40 percent. By improving building envelope performance, it reduces overall energy use, supports electrification, and helps buildings comply with emissions-based regulations such as Local Law 97 and state decarbonization mandates.
Project + Building Compatibility
Project Type
Both existing building retrofit and new construction
Essential Building Characteristics
Building exterior needs to be as flat as possible (square geometry ideally), and without obstructions (e.g., fire escapes, protruding architectural elements, balconies).
Building needs to be at least 15 stories in height, punched windows preferred.
Ideal Building Characteristics
Buildings looking to either reskin the entire building or at minimum replace the windows preferred.
Minimum Project Size
Typically, 30-40k sq/ft of facade is the minimum project size.
Ideal Project Size
Mid- to high-rise multifamily or commerical building.
Dextall's panel system works best when owners are looking to upgrade multiple building systems in tandem, where the envelope can amplify the benefits of other measures.
Additional Considerations
Dextall typically handles building surveying internally using Surveyor, ensuring accurate measurements for design and prefabrication of wall panels.
NY Contractor Availability
Dextall has a certified installer program and is available to reference trained installers.
Other Screening Criteria
Dextall generally does not work with landmark-style buildings with permanent architectural features unless the plan is to completely reskin and remove the existing facade.
Example Installations
Installed By
NYSERDA; NYCHA; L+M Developers; CM & Associates; NRP Group
Resident Experience
During Installation
Tenant disruption is minimal because the panel system can be installed with tenants/residents in place. All of Dextall's installations for existing buildings have been completed with tenants in place.
Post Installation
Tenants and residents benefit from improved comfort and healthier living conditions through high-performance wall systems that provide better insulation, more stable indoor temperatures, improved air quality, and reduced moisture intrusion. These improvements lower energy costs, enhance resident control over heating and cooling, and reduce health risks associated with mold, pests, and poor indoor air quality. Dextall also improves the aesthetics of the building facade.
Financing
NY Incentives/Financing Resources
PACE financing
Payback Period
60 months
Upfront Costs
While specific price per square foot depends on project-specific engineering and materials, Dextall offers a digital platform to analyze costs during design. Moreover, Dextall collaborates with financing institutions, government programs, and green energy initiatives, such as PACE financing, to provide accessible funding options for building owners.
Operations, Management, and Maintenance
Operations and Maintenance Requirements
Rainscreen cladding and windows can be easily removed/replaced if damaged. There is a 10-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Routine cleaning should be expected 1–2x/year using a low-pressure wash and mild detergent to remove dirt/pollution.
Ease of Operations
Dextall can incorporate window washing buttons within the panels for easier maintenance by property personnel.
Service Support
Building owners coordinate maintenance of building facade.
Moisture Management
Future Proofing
Dextall can be used to meet Local Law 11 compliance requirements, reducing the need for costly facade upgrades every few years.
Specifications
ASTM E119-22 (fire resistance rating); ASTM E2226-15b (2019) (fire propagation performance); ASTM E331-00 (2016) (water penetration resistance); AAMA 501.1-17 (dynamic water and air resistance); ASTM E283 (air leakage performance); ASTM C1363-2019 (thermal performance and R-value testing)
