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Curtain Wall vs Storefront Glass: The Benefits of and Uses for Each
As a business owner or manager, you may be weighing the options of a curtain wall vs storefront glass for your commercial property. Both systems have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one can have a significant impact on the functionality and aesthetics of your property.
Our commercial glass installation experts at Glass Solutions in the greater Raleigh area are helping business owners explore the differences between a curtain wall vs storefront glass. In this article, we will break down the definitions of a curtain wall vs storefront glass, explore the benefits of each, and outline the best option for your store depending on your budget and needs.
What is Storefront Glass?
Storefront glass is a type of commercial glass system that is commonly used in storefronts, entrances, and ground-floor windows of buildings. Storefront glass is typically made up of large, single panes of tempered or laminated glass, which are held in place by aluminum frames or structural silicone sealants.
What are the Benefits of Choosing Storefront Glass?
One of the key benefits of storefront glass is its ability to create a modern and attractive look for commercial properties. The use of large glass panels allows for maximum visibility and natural light to enter the space, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for customers.
In addition to aesthetics, storefront glass is also known for its durability and security features. The use of tempered or laminated glass makes it resistant to breakage, which helps to deter potential burglars or vandals. Additionally, storefront glass systems can be customized with additional security features such as locks and alarms.
Some benefits of choosing storefront glass for commercial properties:
- Provides a modern and attractive look for commercial properties.
- Allows for maximum visibility and natural light to enter the space.
- Resistant to breakage due to the use of tempered or laminated glass.
- Can be customized with additional security features such as locks and alarms.
- Durable and low-maintenance.
- Energy-efficient options are available to help reduce heating and cooling costs.
- Can be designed to meet various structural requirements and building codes.
- Enhances the value and curb appeal of commercial properties.
What is a Curtain Wall?
A curtain wall is a type of commercial glass system that is used in modern high-rise buildings. It is a non-structural system that is designed to support its own weight and the loads imposed upon it, such as wind and seismic forces. A curtain wall system typically consists of large glass panels, metal framing, and aluminum or steel support structures. Unlike storefront glass, which is held in place by frames or sealants, curtain walls are attached to the building’s structure with anchors and bolts.
What are the Benefits of Choosing Curtain Walls?
One of the key benefits of glass curtain walls is their ability to provide a high level of thermal and acoustic insulation, making them an excellent choice for buildings in noisy or extreme weather conditions. They are also highly customizable, with a variety of shapes, colors, and finishes available to match the design aesthetic of the building.
Here are some benefits of choosing a curtain wall for commercial buildings:
- Provides a modern and sophisticated look for high-rise buildings.
- Offers a high level of thermal and acoustic insulation, making them ideal for buildings in noisy or extreme weather conditions.
- Highly customizable with a variety of shapes, colors, and finishes available.
- Enhances energy efficiency and reduces heating and cooling costs.
- Can be designed to meet various structural requirements and building codes.
- Increases natural light and maximizes views.
- Low maintenance and durable.
- Reduces the spread of germs in the office and therefore keeps employees healthy and present in the workplace.
- Provides excellent protection against environmental factors such as wind and rain.
- Increases the property value and marketability of commercial buildings.
- Customizable with a variety of glass types and glazing options to enhance insulation and aesthetics.
Primary Differences Between Curtain Wall vs Storefront Glass
The primary differences between a glass curtain wall vs storefront glass lie in their structural design, intended use, and the level of insulation and energy efficiency they offer. Choosing the right system for your commercial property depends on a variety of factors, such as building design, location, and desired aesthetic.
Structural Design
Curtain walls are designed as non-structural systems that hang off the building’s structure and support their own weight and loads. In contrast, storefront glass is a structural system that is designed to bear weight and support the building’s structure.
Intended Use
Curtain wall glass is commonly used in modern high-rise buildings, skyscrapers, and large commercial structures with a height of six stories or more. Storefront glass, however, is intended for use in low-rise commercial buildings, such as retail stores, restaurants, and small office buildings.
Insulation
Curtain walls generally offer a higher level of insulation and energy efficiency, making them ideal for high-rise buildings in noisy or extreme weather conditions. Storefront glass, on the other hand, is designed primarily for its aesthetic appeal and the visibility it provides into the building’s interior.
Curtain Wall vs Storefront Glass: Can Each Be Glazed?
Glazing refers to the process of installing glass into a frame or structure. Both storefront and curtain wall glass systems can be designed with a variety of glazing options to enhance insulation and aesthetics.
For storefront glass, glazing options typically include single or double-pane glass, which can be tempered or laminated for added durability and security. The glass is typically held in place by aluminum frames or structural silicone sealants.
Curtain wall glass systems offer more flexibility in glazing options. In addition to single or double-pane glass, curtain walls can be designed with a variety of other glazing options, such as insulated glass units, which provide increased thermal and acoustic insulation.
How Much Does a Curtain Wall vs Storefront Glass Cost in NC?
The cost of curtain wall vs storefront glass in North Carolina can vary significantly depending on a variety of factors such as the size of the building, the type of glass used, the complexity of the installation, and any additional features or customization options.
In general, storefront glass is typically less expensive than a curtain wall due to its simpler design and installation process. On average, the cost of storefront glass installation in NC ranges from $50 to $150 per square foot.
In contrast, a curtain wall system is generally more expensive due to its complex design and installation process. The cost of curtain wall installation in NC can range from $175 to $200 per square foot, depending on the specific requirements of the building.
Request a Free Quote for a Curtain Wall From the Raleigh Glass Solutions Professionals
If you’re interested in exploring the benefits of a curtain wall for your commercial property in Raleigh, NC, don’t hesitate to contact Glass Solutions today. Our team of glass professionals has the expertise and experience needed to help you choose the right curtain wall system for your business.
We offer free estimates for curtain walls as well as storefront glass installations, so you can get a clear idea of the cost and scope of your project upfront. Whether you’re looking for a sleek and modern look for your high-rise building or want to enhance energy efficiency and insulation, we can help.
Contact us today to request your free quote for a curtain wall installation by calling us at 919-772-1007 or filling out our online quote form below.