Shop front windows and doors are a store’s best asset, as they provide ample real estate to display products and promotions. They also help to create a welcoming environment for visitors and customers. The aesthetics of a shopfront window can be enhanced with frosted glass finishes and splashes of colour, or they can be made to reflect the company’s branding to boost professionalism and increase street appeal.
There are various types of shopfronts available, ranging from the traditional wooden materials to modern aluminium frames that are more commonly used in large department stores and shopping centres. The most common material is UPVC, which stands for Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride and is a tough, long-lasting option that can hold up to fluctuating weather conditions with minimal maintenance. UPVC is an efficient choice, as it prevents the exchange of heat and cold to reduce power bills and makes for a more comfortable shopping experience for customers.
Aluminium is a lightweight yet strong material that can be shaped to suit the requirements of any building. It is a durable material that can resist corrosion and won’t rust or warp, making it an excellent choice for shopfronts as it lasts for up to 20 years with little to no maintenance work needed, saving time and money. Shopfronts with aluminium frames have an impressive level of security and are able to withstand high winds, heavy rain and hail without damage.
The most practical and popular use for shop front windows and doors is as a means of displaying merchandise, as they can offer ample space to showcase your products in attractive sale displays or to promote new arrivals. They are also a useful way to monitor the movements of passers-by and make it difficult for break ins to occur. Shopfront windows can be designed with laminated safety glass or toughened glass to ensure that they are resilient and safe in the event of an impact.
UPVC is a great option for a shopfront, as it is an aesthetically pleasing and functional choice that can be fabricated to suit the design of any building. It’s a modern, efficient and enduring material that comes in a wide variety of shades and colours to suit any design scheme. It is also an effective insulator, as it prevents the transfer of heat and cold to keep the interior temperature consistent.
The cost of a shopfront can vary depending on its size, colour choices, hardware manufacture options and glazing type. Those with tinted, glazed or laminated glass will generally cost more than those with clear windows. The price may also be affected by the complexity of the installation and whether planning permission is required, which can prolong the timeline for completion of the project. Choosing an experienced shopfront installer can help to shorten the timeline as they will be familiar with the local rules and regulations and will have good relationships with relevant authorities to speed up the process. They can also assist with preparing the required paperwork and making sure that the shopfront will comply with all necessary regulations.