How to Choose the Right Storefront Windows for Your Business

When you think about it, storefront windows are one of the most important architectural features of any public-facing company's building. On an aesthetic level, these windows are what give customers a look into the space you maintain, the products you sell, and the people who will be serving them. The view through your windows and glass entrance doors is your opportunity to make a great first impression and to show people who you are and what you do. 

As a practical consideration, storefront windows can play an important role in the security, comfort, and energy efficiency of your workspace. The type of glass and installation method you choose for your storefront systems can provide you with protection from the impact of windborne debris, reduce glare and heat from the sun, and help regulate the temperature inside your store.

Whether you're building or renovating a new space, or replacing broken or outdated storefront windows, it's important to choose the right type of system to fit your needs and to have complete trust in the skills and knowledge of the company doing the work for you. With over sixty years of experience doing commercial glass work, Glass Inc. can help you select and install the right kind of storefront windows for your business. 

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What to Look for in Storefront Glass

‍Most storefront systems consist of an aluminum frame that holds glass walls or windows in place. The aluminum framing is cut and connected to fit the storefront opening in the building, then the glass is placed inside and sealed with waterproof caulking. 

There are two primary options, when it comes to methods for installing storefront glass: screw spline or shear block. Both methods allow for window units to be preassembled, either on or away from the job site. The screw spline method involves fastening the glass into horizontal and vertical mullions, while the shear block method stacks the glass units into place in the sill flashings. 

While tempered glass is usually required by code, the type, treatment, and thickness of the glass are all major considerations. The glass you select should take into account the nature and location of the business, and whether or not it needs to help protect against fire, flying debris, or projectiles. 

Security film can help glass hold together after breakage, instead of shattering into dangerous fragments. This can protect against weather and debris, as well as provide a deterrent to anyone who might attempt to break into your store, via the windows. 

Your storefront glass can also play a critical role, as far as maintaining the temperature inside your store. If your storefront gets direct sunlight, properly treated glass can filter out light and heat and keep your interior from getting too hot. In colder climates, insulated glass can keep too much heat from escaping. The right kind of glass can dramatically increase your energy efficiency, resulting in lower energy bills and less of a negative impact on the environment. 

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‍Choose Glass Inc. for Your Atlanta Storefront 

‍Glass Inc. sources the best quality materials and offers unmatched customer service and support to help you get exactly the right storefront systems you need, installed in a timely and professional manner. Whether you've got a huge commercial building or a small downtown shop, be sure to pick a high-performance glass company that knows how to put the right kind of glass in place. We can handle all the metalwork, painting, and cleanup, and we are always available to take on custom work and special orders, to make sure your business has the perfect storefront you've always envisioned.