Commercial Storefronts act as both a welcoming entrance for your customers and a vital security shield for your inventory and employees. We understand that a clean, modern glass exterior tells the world that your business is professional, successful, and open for business. However, the glass used in a commercial setting must be much more durable than the windows found in a typical home. It needs to withstand constant use, high winds, and the potential for vandalism or attempted break-ins. Our team observes that a well-designed storefront balances high visibility with maximum physical protection. We want to help you choose the right materials and framing systems that will keep your business looking great and staying safe.
The Structural Strength of Aluminum Framing
Aluminum is the material of choice for most commercial glass systems because it is lightweight, incredibly strong, and naturally resistant to rust. We find that custom-fabricated aluminum frames can support massive spans of heavy glass while maintaining very slim and attractive profiles. These frames are designed to manage water drainage through “weep holes,” ensuring that rain and melting snow don’t sit inside the frame and cause leaks. Furthermore, aluminum can be powder-coated in almost any color to match your brand’s identity and provide a professional finish that never needs painting. Our team ensures that every frame is anchored securely into the building’s structure to provide a solid foundation for your glass.
Choosing the Right Type of Security Glass
The glass you choose for your storefront is your first line of defense against intruders and the elements. We often recommend tempered glass for entrance doors because it is four to five times stronger than regular glass and crumbles into small pieces if it breaks. For even higher security, laminated glass is the best option because it consists of two layers of glass bonded together with a tough plastic interlayer. If an intruder tries to smash the glass, the plastic keeps the shards together and prevents them from entering the building. Our team focuses on providing Commercial Storefronts that discourage theft while still allowing your products to be displayed clearly to passersby.
Improving Energy Efficiency and Comfort
Large glass surfaces can sometimes lead to high heating and cooling costs if they are not treated correctly. We provide high-performance glass with Low-E coatings that reflect heat back to its source, keeping your shop cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Additionally, tinted glass can reduce the amount of glare inside your store, making it a more comfortable environment for your customers to shop in. By reducing the load on your HVAC system, these energy-efficient choices pay for themselves over time through lower utility bills. Our team helps you select the right glass tint and coating that will protect your merchandise from fading due to UV sun exposure.
Professional Maintenance for Lasting Performance
Your storefront is a significant investment, and regular maintenance is the key to ensuring it lasts for twenty or thirty years. We recommend checking the hinges and closers on your entrance doors at least once a year to make sure they are operating smoothly and safely. A door that slams or drags can put excessive stress on the glass and the frame, leading to cracks or alignment issues. Additionally, keeping the glass and the frames clean prevents the buildup of road salt and dirt that can pit the aluminum over time. We are the Best Glass Pro near you for all your commercial glass needs in the Calgary area. If you are ready to upgrade your business’s exterior, please Contact Us for a professional estimate.
FAQ
How long does a storefront installation take?
A typical storefront installation for a single retail space can usually be completed in one to two business days once the materials have been fabricated. If we are replacing an existing storefront, we coordinate the work to minimize the impact on your business hours. We can often perform the most disruptive work during your off-hours or early in the morning to keep your doors open for customers.
What is the difference between a storefront and a curtain wall?
Storefront systems are typically used on the first floor of a building and are supported by the floor slab below and the header above. Curtain walls are much more complex systems that are “hung” from the building’s structural frame and can span multiple stories. For most retail businesses, a standard storefront system is the most cost-effective and practical solution for their needs.
Can you repair my existing commercial door?
Yes, we perform a wide range of repairs on commercial doors, including replacing broken glass, fixing faulty closers, and installing new hinges. If your door is difficult to open or doesn’t close all the way, it is usually a sign that the hardware needs to be adjusted or replaced. We can often restore the function of your existing door without needing a full replacement of the frame.