Curtain Walls vs. Storefronts: Choose the Right Look for Your Business

We look and we judge… especially when it comes to your building. Whether you're upgrading a commercial space or planning a new residential project in Northwest Canada, the right glass system can make all the difference. At All-West Glass Edmonton Ltd, we offer expertly designed curtain walls, aluminum and glass storefronts, and fully customized solutions to match your vision. Knowing the difference between curtain walls and storefront systems is essential for choosing the ideal system that looks great, performs well, and supports long-term energy savings for your property. Let’s break it down so you can decide with confidence.

What Are Curtain Wall Systems and Storefront Systems?

Curtain walls are non-structural exterior cladding systems that hang from a building’s frame, supporting their own weight and resisting environmental forces like wind and rain. They are typically used on large commercial buildings, high-rises, and modern architectural designs. There are two main types of curtain wall systems: unitized and stick.

·       Unitized curtain walls consist of large, factory-assembled panels with glass, framing, and insulation. These panels are transported to the site and installed quickly, making them ideal for high-rise buildings and large façades where speed and quality control are priorities.

·       Stick curtain walls are assembled piece-by-piece on-site, with individual components like mullions, transoms, and glass installed sequentially. This method suits smaller or mid-sized buildings and allows for more on-site customization, but requires more labour and time.

Storefront systems, on the other hand, are designed primarily for ground-floor applications such as retail entrances, restaurants, and low-rise commercial buildings. They consist of smaller glass panels held in aluminum frames that provide a clean, modern look while offering moderate insulation and durability.

Commercial Curtain Wall Systems vs. Storefront Systems: Which Is Best?

For commercial properties, curtain walls and storefront systems serve different purposes and offer distinct benefits. Curtain walls provide expansive glass façades often spanning multiple floors, allowing for maximum natural light and uninterrupted views. Their superior thermal insulation and weatherproofing make them ideal for high-rise buildings exposed to harsh weather conditions. The unitized curtain wall system’s factory-controlled assembly ensures high quality and faster installation, reducing on-site labour costs and potential errors.

Storefront systems are more cost-effective and simpler to install. They are perfect for businesses seeking a modern, attractive entrance or façade on a smaller scale. Aluminum and glass storefronts from All-West Glass Edmonton Ltd can be customized with features like automatic doors to enhance security and functionality, making them a practical choice for retail spaces and offices.

When comparing the two, curtain walls offer higher energy efficiency and better water management through sophisticated weeping systems at each glass sill, while storefronts focus on aesthetics and accessibility. Curtain walls also allow for larger glass panels and thicker framing, providing a sleeker, more expansive look that can elevate your commercial property’s curb appeal and market value.

Residential Curtain Wall Systems: Elevating Home Design

While curtain walls are often associated with commercial buildings, residential curtain wall systems are gaining popularity among homeowners who want to create stunning, light-filled living spaces. These systems bring the same benefits of durability, energy efficiency, and modern aesthetics to residential properties. At All-West Glass Edmonton Ltd, we offer residential curtain wall solutions that transform your home with floor-to-ceiling glass walls that blur the line between indoors and outdoors.

Compared to storefront systems, residential curtain walls provide better insulation and weather resistance, which is crucial for the varying climate in Northwest Canada. They also offer more design flexibility, allowing for custom shapes and sizes that fit your home’s architectural style.

All-West Glass Edmonton Ltd is your trusted partner for commercial and residential curtain wall systems and storefront solutions in Northwest Canada. Our expertise in aluminum and glass installations ensures that every project meets the highest quality, durability, and aesthetics standards. Whether you need a unitized curtain wall for a high-rise office or a sleek storefront with automatic doors, we tailor our services to your business goals and budget. Contact All-West Glass Edmonton Ltd today for a consultation and let us help you bring your vision to life with expert craftsmanship and premium materials.