Commercial Glass for Warehouses and Distribution Centers
Modern warehouses pair a large, plain box with a glass office corner. That glass sets the first impression for tenants and visitors and keeps the office comfortable.
Warehouses and distribution at a glance
What the glass usually looks like on this kind of building, what fails first, how to maintain it and when it is typically replaced.
Typical storefront
A glass office corner or entry with aluminum storefront, a main entrance, a separate driver entrance and window, and clerestory windows along the walls.
Typical failures
- Driver entrance doors and windows worn by heavy use
- Tilt-up panel joints and storefront sealant cracking
- Sun-exposed office glass overheating the space
Typical maintenance
- Quarterly checks of doors and driver windows
- Annual sealant inspection where storefront meets concrete panels
- Cleaning of clerestory glass and frames during roof work
Typical upgrades
- Low-E insulated glass in office corners
- Secure driver windows and pass-throughs
- Refreshed entrances when the building is re-leased
Typical replacement cycles
Office storefronts 30 to 40 years, entrances and hardware 10 to 20 years, refreshes common at each new lease.
Compare with other building types in the building type explorer.
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The office corner sells the building
Leasing agents know the office entry is the most visible part of a distribution building. Clean, modern glass and a solid entrance help it lease faster.
Driver entrances
Driver entrances and windows see constant traffic. Durable doors, security glass at pass-throughs and good hardware keep them working.
Warehouses and distribution: common questions
What glass is typical in a warehouse office?
Aluminum storefront with insulated, often low-E, safety glass at the office corner and entrance.
Why does warehouse office glass overheat?
Large sun-facing lites without low-E let in a lot of solar heat. Low-E glass or shading helps.
Can warehouse storefronts be updated for a new tenant?
Yes. Entrances, finishes and glass can be refreshed without replacing the whole system.