Your storefront creates the first impression customers have of your business. The glass you choose affects aesthetics, security, energy costs, and ongoing maintenance. Here's what business owners need to know.
Types of Commercial Storefront Glass
Standard float glass: Basic commercial glass. Economical but offers limited security or energy benefits. Suitable for interior applications or where requirements are minimal.
Tempered safety glass: Heat-treated for strength. Required by code for doors, low windows, and other human-impact areas. Breaks into small, relatively harmless pieces if shattered.
Laminated security glass: Two or more glass layers bonded with plastic interlayer. Holds together when broken, deterring break-ins and reducing injury risk. Various thicknesses available based on security requirements.
Insulated glass units (IGUs): Double or triple-pane glass with sealed air space. Significantly reduces heating and cooling costs. Standard for most new commercial installations.
Low-E coated glass: Metallic coating reflects heat while admitting light. Reduces solar heat gain and improves energy efficiency. Available with various performance characteristics.
Security Considerations
Retail businesses face break-in risks. Glass choices can help:
Laminated glass: Won't fall out of the frame when broken, slowing intruders and maintaining some barrier. Can be combined with alarms for layered security.
Security film: Applied to existing glass to hold it together if broken. More economical than replacing all glass with laminated.
Polycarbonate glazing: Virtually unbreakable plastic glazing for high-risk locations. Sacrifices some clarity for extreme impact resistance.
Rolling shutters or gates: Physical barriers for after-hours protection. Can be concealed during business hours.
Energy Efficiency for Commercial Spaces
Large glass expanses can be energy hogs. Modern solutions include:
Low-E coatings: Block UV rays and reduce heat transfer. Multiple coating options balance light transmission with heat rejection.
Tinted glass: Reduces solar heat gain and glare. Available in various colors and transmission levels.
Reflective glass: Mirror-like appearance that significantly reduces heat gain. Best suited for buildings where interior visibility from outside isn't needed.
Triple-pane glazing: Maximum insulation for harsh climates. Higher upfront cost but significant ongoing savings.
Maintenance Considerations
Cleaning: Commercial glass needs regular cleaning to maintain appearance. Consider access for cleaning crews—especially for upper-story windows.
Scratch resistance: High-traffic areas may benefit from harder glass types or protective coatings.
Coating durability: Some Low-E and tinted coatings are applied to interior surfaces and can be damaged by improper cleaning. Know what you have and how to maintain it.
Emergency Response
Commercial glass emergencies—break-ins, accidents, storm damage—need fast response:
Business operations may depend on secure premises
Insurance may require immediate boarding
Liability concerns with broken glass in public areas
We provide 24/7 emergency service for commercial clients, including immediate board-up and expedited permanent replacement.
Code Requirements
Commercial glazing must meet building codes for:
Safety glazing locations (doors, sidelights, low windows)
Fire-rated assemblies where required
Energy efficiency minimums
Accessibility requirements for entrances
We ensure all commercial installations meet applicable codes and can handle permit requirements where needed.
Working with Your Schedule
Commercial work often needs to happen outside business hours. We accommodate:
Early morning or evening installations
Weekend work when needed
Phased projects that minimize disruption
Coordination with your contractors on larger projects
Questions About Your Project?
Our team is happy to provide advice and free estimates for your glass needs.
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