Storefront Glazing, Framing & Installation
Aluminum storefront framing, commercial glass, and entrance doors for retail, restaurant, and office tenants across the Bay Area.
Storefront glazing, framing, and installation create the entrance customers see first. A new storefront has to look right, perform against weather and energy requirements, provide an accessible entry, and meet landlord design standards.
In California, storefront glass is subject to Title 24 fenestration requirements, safety glazing rules, and seismic considerations for framing. For glass repair, replacement, and other exterior glazing, see our Commercial Glazing Contractors page.
When Tenants Need a New Storefront
Storefront projects are commonly driven by:
- New retail or restaurant tenants
- Converting office space to street-level retail
- Aging or leaking framing
- New entrance locations
- Brand and landlord design requirements
- Security upgrades
A storefront upgrade often becomes the centerpiece of the entire tenant improvement.
Aluminum Storefront Framing
Framing systems are selected for performance and appearance, including:
- Thermally broken aluminum framing
- Center-set and front-set systems
- Anodized and painted finishes
- Structural silicone or captured glazing
- Integrated entrance frames
- Anchorage designed for seismic movement
The framing system determines how the storefront handles weather, energy, and movement.
Commercial Glass Options
Storefront glass is chosen for safety, efficiency, and security:
- Insulated glass units
- Low-E coatings for solar control
- Tempered safety glass
- Laminated security glass
- Spandrel glass at hidden areas
- Title 24 compliant performance
Glass selection affects comfort, energy use, and protection against break-ins.
Entrance Doors and Hardware
Entrances need to balance durability and accessibility:
- Medium and wide stile aluminum doors
- Closers and pivots
- Panic and exit hardware
- Accessible door opening force and clearances
- Automatic operators where needed
- Thresholds for accessible routes
Heavy daily use makes hardware quality one of the most important decisions.
Approvals and Permitting
Storefront projects commonly require:
- Landlord design approval
- Building permit review
- Energy compliance documentation
- Planning or design review in some cities
- Shop drawings and product data
- Final inspection
Starting approvals early keeps storefront work from delaying opening day.
Installation While Staying Secure
Storefront installation is planned to protect the space:
- Temporary enclosures and board-up
- Phased removal of existing framing
- Sealants and water management
- Glass handling and safety
- Hardware adjustment and testing
- Final cleaning
Careful phasing keeps the building secure and weather-tight throughout installation.
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