Owners and designers often treat “storefront” and “curtain wall” as the same thing, yet they are two different systems. Picking the right one prevents leaks, failed inspections and unexpected costs.
What is a storefront system?
Storefront is a non-structural glazing system typically set between the floor slab and the slab above, most often at ground level. Its frames are lighter (commonly about 4-1/2″ deep) and are installed inside a rough opening.
- Usual height: a single story, often up to roughly 10 to 12 feet.
- Where it is used: shop entries, lobbies, street-level offices and mall storefronts.
- Benefits: budget-friendly, quick to install and simple to combine with doors.
What is a curtain wall system?
Curtain wall is a non-load-bearing exterior wall hung from the building frame, frequently running past several floors. Its deeper mullions resist stronger wind, and pressure-equalized or rain-screen designs control water.
- Usual height: several stories, running continuously past slab edges.
- Where it is used: office towers, hospitals, schools, retail anchors and signature façades.
- Benefits: better structural and thermal performance, bigger glass and a seamless appearance.
The main differences in brief
- Structure: storefront fits inside an opening, while curtain wall is attached to the building frame.
- Performance: curtain wall copes with greater wind, water and thermal loads.
- Cost: storefront usually costs less per square foot.
- Installation: curtain wall generally needs lifts or cranes and more engineering.
A project that uses both
At the Weis Markets store in Waldorf, MD, CBE Glass installed a curved clerestory curtain wall above the entry along with storefront and vestibule glass at street level. Read more about our storefront and curtain wall work.
Planning a commercial glass project?
Businesses, building managers and general contractors throughout Washington DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia work with CBE Glass. Phone (202) 492-0676 (answered 24/7 for emergencies), write to bid@cbeglass.com or ask for a free estimate.
