Windows are the eyes of your establishment.
It is through them that the people inside get to see the outside world. It’s also the eyes of people looking into your store, and so that aspect must be given attention as well. Aesthetics are an important aspect of picking your windows.
However, their practical purpose mustn’t be ignored either. Windows also provide ventilation and natural sunlight. Proper placement means huge savings on cooling and lighting costs, especially during the daytime.
Today, we’ll be discussing which windows are the best fit for your business and what you need to know.
5 Different Glass Types for Windows
The glass that the frame of your windows has are just as important as what type they are. Make sure to pick the glass best suited to your budget and environment.
1. Clear Glass
Clear glass is the standard type of glass used for the cheapest windows on the market. These aren’t necessarily terrible for your purposes. For example, if your establishment is in a very public place, and has shutters, then you don’t really need anything tougher. Retail establishments and restaurants usually go for this option.
2. Security/Tempered Glass
If you don’t have the luxury of shutters or are in a rather dangerous part of the neighborhood, then tempered glass is the go-to. It is significantly tougher and can withstand strong impacts. Vandals will have a much harder time breaking through these.
3. Laminated Glass
Laminated glass is sort of like security glass, but with the added benefit of being specifically tailored for filtration and anti-hurricane qualities. It’s also resistant to vandalism. While its primary use is for vehicles, it also works fine for commercial establishments.
4. Insulated Glass
Insulated glass is the same as clear glass in durability but has much better heat retention. It’s the best type of glass used for colder climates. The interior temperature is an important factor in the comfort of staff and customers. Insulated glass helps regulate that.
5. Frosted/Tinted Glass
Certain commercial establishments prefer to keep the going-on inside the building private. For example, in private restaurants, casinos, or stores that sell products geared toward adults, frosted or tinted glass would be best to maintain privacy. They allow enough natural light to seep through without disturbing patrons.
Types of Windows
Once you’ve decided on what kind of glass you’ll primarily be using for your establishment, it’s time to pick out the type. Do note that there is no “perfect window” for every sort of establishment.
Ask your architect or construction teams what the best course of action is for the business you want.
1. Bay Windows
Bay windows are perfect for businesses with a gorgeous view. From afar, it gives the business a fancy and appealing aesthetic. Practically, it gives people ample natural sunlight and the aforementioned gorgeous view of whatever mountains or sea they’re looking at.
2. Arched Windows
Arched windows lend establishments a certain gothic appeal. They easily spice up any establishment, and for places such as banks or high-end restaurants, arched windows give off this sense of “royalty” while providing ample sunlight and a view of the outside.
3. Awning Windows
Commercial establishments in rainy environments should opt for these specialized windows. They open to let rain slide away from the building and minimize any moisture during the rainy season from entering your establishment.
4. Egress Window
Egress windows are for establishments that have floors below ground level. For your customers’ and employees’ safety, these need to be installed as they act as an emergency exit for your establishment in case of a fire or disaster.
5. Garden Window
Garden windows are the perfect option for businesses that have any indoor greenery. For flower shops, in particular, this is a beautiful way to present flowers and let natural sunlight in. Garden windows are also perfect for displaying just about anything though, and it provides ample sunlight for the interior of the building.
6. Circle Windows
Circle windows are very much a design choice and would fit establishments looking to add a “Victorian Gothic” vibe to their building. It helps your building stand out from the typical modern designs, and their unique shape also means they have minimal space requirements.
7. Skylights
Skylights are perfect for businesses that want to have window-free walls. They are a bit pricier due to their precarious positioning, but they are well worth the price. Skylights are natural light sources, provide natural air control, and provide the best natural light for commercial establishments.
8. Block Windows
Glass block windows offer security, privacy, and a unique aesthetic. They aren’t meant for seeing out of, but instead as an aesthetic choice and provide muted sunlight into interiors. They are also great for regulating heat as they are sealed in with mortar.
9. Storm Windows
Storm windows are a must for any storm-heavy area. They may look a bit clunky, but they are there for security, not to look pretty. In the face of storms, practicality always wins out, but that’s not to say you can’t fit the aesthetic into your building’s design.
10. Picture Window
Picture windows are basically those display windows that you see in clothing stores. They are there to showcase your business’ newest or most popular products. It could also simply be a view into your establishment, which could attract walk-ins.
With the above information, you should be on your way to choosing the ideal windows for your commercial buildings so good luck!
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