Aluminum Storefront Installation

A new aluminum storefront sets how a business looks from the street, how much energy it loses, and how secure it is after hours. We measure, specify, permit and install complete storefront systems with glass and entrances.

What an aluminum storefront system is

A storefront system is the framed glass wall at the front of a commercial space: extruded aluminum mullions and rails, the glass set into them, and usually one or more entrance doors. Storefront is designed for ground-floor openings, typically one story high, and is installed between the floor slab and a header or structure above. Taller and multi-story glass walls are usually curtain wall, which is a different system.

Modern storefront systems come with thermally broken frames, which separate the inside and outside aluminum with an insulating barrier so the frame does not conduct cold and heat straight through. Combined with insulated low-E glass, they meet current energy codes and make the space far more comfortable.

How a storefront installation runs

Site measure and survey. We measure the opening, check that it is level and square, and look at the slab, header and adjacent walls the storefront will tie into.
System and glass selection. Frame depth, finish, glass make-up, door type and hardware are chosen for the building, the exposure and the code.
Shop drawings and permit. Elevations and details are drawn for approval, and we file the permit with the jurisdiction where required.
Fabrication. Frames are cut and assembled and the glass is ordered. Insulated and specialty glass is usually the longest lead item.
Installation. Frames are set, anchored and sealed, the sill is flashed with end dams, glass is set and the doors are hung and adjusted.
Final adjustments. Doors are adjusted for closing speed and latching, and the perimeter is sealed and checked for water tightness.

Choosing the right storefront

The main choices are frame depth (deeper frames handle larger lites and higher wind loads), glazing position (center-set or front-set), finish (clear or dark bronze anodized, black, or painted to a custom color) and glass (clear, tinted, low-E, laminated or impact-rated). Entrance doors can be narrow, medium or wide stile aluminum, or frameless glass.

Building codes set minimums for energy performance, safety glazing in and near doors, and wind loads. In hurricane regions, the system also needs the right product approval and impact rating. We specify a system that meets all of them and suits the look the owner wants.

Keeping the space secure during the work

Replacing an existing storefront means the front of the business is open for part of the job. We plan the sequence so the opening is secured with temporary panels or board-up whenever crews are not on site, and we schedule the tear-out for when the new frames and glass are ready to go in.