As a commercial property owner, your storefront glass may not be the most glamorous part of your Oak Park business — but it is an important feature. Your storefront plays a major role in the first impression people get of your business, which means choosing the right type of glass can make a big difference in how it looks and operates.
Below, this storefront glass installer in Oak Park, Illinois is going to review the four most popular types of commercial glass to consider.
1. Tempered glass
One of the most popular types of commercial glass is tempered glass. Tempered glass is ten times stronger than standard glass and as strong as steel. It resists scratches, and even if it breaks, it will not splinter into dangerous shards like regular glass. Tempered glass also provides heat insulation, and some businesses report a temperature change of up to 15°F after installing it.
Another major benefit of tempered glass is that it does not require much maintenance. It is generally easier to clean than other glass types and will not discolor over time. However, if your store is in a high-traffic area, your storefront glass installer in Oak Park, Illinois may recommend adding a protective coating on top of your tempered glass so that it does not get scratched or become hard to see through.
2. Laminated Glass
This type of glass offers great value and is an excellent option if you are trying to create a space that feels modern and upscale. Laminated glass is made up of two or more layers: an interior piece, a plastic interlayer, and an exterior layer with decorative properties. Each layer can be transparent or colored, creating a variety of effects. The glass is heavy-duty, but it is not very energy efficient due to its thickness. If you are replacing windows that are in poor condition, laminated glass is a good option, as it will easily retrofit into your existing frames.
3. Annealed Glass
This glass is typically used in storefronts that are not required to withstand severe weather conditions. Annealed glass, while relatively easy on your wallet, is still tempered glass and can be used in storefront applications.
This glass is not quite as strong as laminated or tempered glass and should not be used with metal frames. Before choosing annealed glass, a reputable storefront glass installer in Oak Park, Illinois will warn you that it cannot survive significant impacts, and it is not considered a long-term security solution. On the other hand, many store owners are satisfied with its appearance and strength relative to its cost.
If you want an aesthetically pleasing storefront without paying a fortune, annealed may be just what you need.
4. Tinted, Frosted, and Colored Glass
Choosing between tinted, frosted, and colored glass is a key decision when designing your storefront. These are often referred to as privacy glass because they obscure your business from passersby on the outside.
Tinted and frosted glass allows natural light in, but still obscures people’s view inside. Colored glass is opaque, but it adds some vibrancy to your storefront design. It is also a great way to evoke certain emotions about your brand or product offerings through color association (blue is calm, red is warm, for example).
Conclusion
With so many types of commercial glass available, it is hard to know which one is best. Hopefully, we have made it a little easier by giving you an overview of the four most popular types of commercial glass.
Remember, the goal is to find an option that matches your needs and keeps costs in check. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to get in touch with a storefront glass installer in Oak Park, Illinois.
Looking for the Best Storefront Glass Installer in Oak Park, Illinois?
Have you decided on the right type of storefront glass for your business? If so, and if you’re ready to partner with the top-rated storefront glass installer in Oak Park, Illinois, Glass & Mirror America is the company to call. Contact us today at (800) 411-2801 to schedule a free consultation.
