The glass door at the front of your business is a culmination of choices that involve safety, code compliance and aesthetics. Consulting with an expert on a choice of glass doors involves discussing entire storefront systems, including the frame, weather stripping, sealants, fasteners and other parts. Storefront systems have made dramatic advancements over the last 10 years, so it’s always important to make sure your contractor is up to date with the latest trends, standards, and advancements.
Here are some of the trends to be mindful of when choosing your next glass door for your business.
Tinted Glass
You can boost energy efficiency with double glazed glass, but tinting will make your door even more efficient. Not only does it help lower the temperature in the interior, but it can also afford a degree of privacy. Tinting also helps reduce the visual distraction experienced by employees.
You can decide on the degree of tinting you want, selecting lighter tinting for a business where visibility matters, such as a retail outlet.
Glazing
Any place where earthquakes are a possibility, business owners should check out glazing. Architectural glass glazed with a thin film of lamination can minimize damage, as well as the possibility of injuries when there is seismic activity. The film can be applied to exterior or interior panes, reducing breakage and preventing shards of glass from scattering. Building codes current with FEMA requirements call for both laminated glass and tempered glass in or adjacent to exits, or near a pedestrian walkway.
Efficiency
Business owners uniformly expect efficient design and installation in their commercial door installations. Aluminum frames can add to insulation, while reducing heat conduction between panes. The relatively low cost of aluminum frames helps building owners lower construction costs so they can increase efforts to make the door overall more efficient in other ways, such as by adding seals and sealants, which also help with greater structural support and safety. Tinting and low-emissivity glass also add to efficiency.
Durability and Strength
Whatever material your doors are made of, you like most business owners expect them to be more durable than in the past, withstanding the elements, corrosion, and the effects of accidents or direct attempts at break-in or vandalism. While most storefront glass doors will be made of aluminum, it’s possible you may opt for wood, steel or fiberglass. Each material has its strengths and deficiencies when it comes to storefront installation, so consult with your installer about your expectations and choose carefully. Also discuss the latest options in door hardware and security features to help prevent break-ins.