Shop Front Installers for shopfront Solutions

[edit] Introduction

Shopfront installers fit, replace and refurbish the glazed and framed entrances that form the frontages of retail units and other commercial premises. A shopfront typically incorporates glazing, framing, entrance doors, signage and associated components. Its design and installation affect the appearance of the building, visibility into the premises, security, accessibility, weather resistance and thermal performance.

Shopfront installation may form part of new construction, a change of use, a refurbishment or the replacement of damaged or obsolete components. The work requires coordination between the client, designer, installer and other relevant construction professionals to ensure that the finished installation is suitable for the building and its intended use.

[edit] Types of shopfront

Shopfronts are available in a range of materials and configurations, selected according to architectural requirements, performance criteria, budget and maintenance needs.

• Glass shopfronts: glazed frontages provide visibility into retail premises and can admit daylight. They may use framed or minimally framed arrangements, with glazing selected to meet relevant safety, security and performance requirements.
• Aluminium shopfronts: aluminium framing is widely used because it is relatively lightweight, durable and resistant to corrosion. It can accommodate different glazing configurations, finishes and entrance door types.
• Steel shopfronts: steel framing can provide strength and support traditional or contemporary designs. Protective coatings and appropriate detailing may be needed to manage corrosion.
• Timber shopfronts: timber is used in traditional and contemporary designs. Its suitability depends on the species, construction, finish, exposure and maintenance requirements.
• Automatic doors: powered sliding or swing doors can be incorporated where appropriate to improve access and manage the movement of people. Their design should address accessibility, safety, control systems and the building's intended use.

The choice of system depends on the dimensions of the opening, structural support, anticipated loads, security requirements, energy performance, maintenance access and the architectural character of the building.

[edit] Shopfront installation process

[edit] Design and preparation

The installation process begins with assessing the existing opening, taking accurate measurements and establishing the client's functional and architectural requirements. The design should consider the entrance arrangement, glazing dimensions, framing, security, accessibility, signage, weather protection and interfaces with the surrounding construction. Where an existing shopfront is being replaced, the condition of the supporting structure and any concealed defects should also be considered.

Materials and components are selected to meet the specified performance requirements. Shopfronts are often manufactured to measured dimensions before being delivered to site. Accurate surveys, coordinated drawings and checks of site conditions help reduce dimensional discrepancies and installation problems.

[edit] Installation and inspection

Installation involves preparing the opening, positioning and securing the framing, fitting the glazing and doors, and completing seals, fixings and finishes. The installation must follow the requirements of the specified system and accommodate relevant tolerances and movement. Connections to the building need to provide adequate support, while perimeter joints must be detailed to control water penetration and air leakage.

The completed shopfront should be inspected to confirm that the framing and glazing are secure, doors operate correctly, seals and finishes are complete, and the installation meets the specified requirements. Where automatic doors or other powered components are installed, their controls and safety functions should also be checked. Any defects should be rectified before the installation is accepted.

[edit] Performance and compliance considerations

Shopfront design and installation should address several performance requirements:

• Safety: glazing must be suitable for its location and the anticipated risk of human impact. The selection of glass and its support system should take account of relevant building regulations and applicable standards.
• Security: the design may incorporate laminated or other security glazing, suitable locks, reinforced framing and controlled access, depending on the risk assessment and intended use.
• Weather resistance: frames, seals, thresholds and perimeter junctions should be detailed to resist rain penetration and uncontrolled air leakage.
• Thermal performance: the glazing, frame and entrance arrangement affect heat loss and solar gains. Insulating glazing and thermally improved framing may be appropriate, depending on the building and applicable requirements.
• Accessibility: entrances should provide suitable clear opening widths, threshold arrangements, manoeuvring space and door operating forces, as required by the applicable accessibility provisions.
• Durability and maintenance: materials, coatings, seals, hardware and moving components should be selected with regard to exposure, expected use, inspection and replacement.

Applicable planning requirements should also be checked. Alterations to shopfronts may require planning permission or other consent, particularly where a building is listed or located in a conservation area. Requirements vary according to the location, nature of the work and status of the building. Building regulations may also apply, depending on the work and jurisdiction.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• Glass Shop Fronts for Modern Retail Spaces
• Curtain wall glazing
• Curtain wall systems
• Glazing
• Doors
• Shop blind
• Active frontage
• Primary and secondary frontages
• Shop
• A Detailed Overview of Shop Front Roller Shutter Solutions in London