Owing to its strategic position as the first point of contact with your customers, storefront glass can shape your commercial space. You may use storefront windows to showcase products and draw clients to your premises. An experienced glass installation company can help you with commercial glass replacement when you want a new design or to repair damage. Some factors to consider when determining the height of storefront glass include:
Building Codes
Local, state, and national building codes must be adhered to when constructing or making improvements to a building. These codes define the allowable height, thickness, and kind of glass to be used in storefronts. Particular areas may have more stringent codes due to the likelihood of high winds or earthquakes.
Zoning laws also regulate the design, construction, and commercial glass replacement procedures within some areas. Laws may determine the kind of materials used in glass production and the appearance accepted for storefront glass. Restrictions are developed to preserve the present look of a residential or business area when new businesses are added.
Structural Support
The load-bearing capability of the structure is a determining factor when seeking commercial glass replacement. Storefront glasses are usually heavy, especially when they are installed in single large panels, contributing to the structure’s overall weight. The height of a storefront window is also restricted by the frame of the business’s building. Metal framework may support taller pieces of glass than wooden supports. In taller structures, supplemental reinforcement structures, such as steel or thicker mullions, might be required to offer the required support. Proper framing and support structures prevent glass failure, defining the maximum allowable height of a glass.
Durability of the Material
The strength, height, and durability of the glass in use may also affect how tall a window can be. Safety glass, such as tempered glass, is preferred for storefront installments due to its higher load endurance. Tempered glass is a set of two or more panes with a layer of plastic in the middle to provide additional safety and security. This glass is also preferred for higher structures, but it often breaks into sharp fragments under significant pressure. Compared to tempered glass, laminated glass forms cracks and remains attached to the bonding layer, minimizing injuries. Laminated glass can be used in tall installations but requires robust frames.
Frame Used
Framing materials must be sturdy enough to support the size of the glass and protect its structural shape. A frame must equally distribute the weight of the glass to eliminate uneven pressure that can bend the glass over time. Large plates of glass used for tall storefront windows often require additional support. Aluminum frames can support the load of the glass and withstand the forces exerted by the weight, allowing you to use more expansive window sizes without risking fragility.
Advanced framing systems, such as curtain walls, offer another solution for supporting tall storefront glass. These systems bear the load of the glass while allowing for maximum transparency and minimal visible framing. Curtain walls are made with various materials, including steel and aluminum, to provide the necessary strength for tall glass installations. The use of these advanced systems allows for greater design flexibility and the potential for taller storefront glass.
Water Drainage
When it rains, water flows down the vertical glass storefront to the sill and then drains to the building’s exterior. In extreme weather conditions or heavy rain, the drainage system in storefront glass can become overloaded. To improve water flow and drainage efficiency, the height of storefront windows should be limited and protected from the weather with an overhead structure. The better protected a storefront is from the weather, the longer it will last.
Design Aesthetics
Architectural style and building appearance should be considered when choosing the height of storefront glass. Taller glass windows improve natural lighting on the premises, display a broad view of your showroom, and maximize the space for merchandise. Blending storefront glass with a building’s other architectural features might harmonize your brand’s aesthetic. Glass height should be matched to the building’s doors, signage, or decor style. By combining these elements, you improve the general outlook of the whole building.
Invest in Professional Commercial Glass Replacement
Investing in professional commercial glass replacement can enhance the appearance of your storefront. It further improves the safety and energy efficiency of your glass installations, providing long-term value for your business. Contact a trusted professional to upgrade your storefront and elevate your business’s presence today.
