A traditional Main Street Storefront is not necessarily the the first thing that comes to mind when you think of energy efficient triple glazed fiberglass windows.
However, compared to more typical window and door framing materials, the fiberglass option is compelling. The whole frame is a thermal break so the frames and glass edges are warmer, frost free. Triple glazing makes the shopping experience more comfortable in cold weather. Operable transoms allow for free cooling without the the ‘hum’ of an Air Conditioner during the transition days of Spring and Autumn.
From a design point of view fiberglass allows for flexibilty with color, both on original installation and later during renovations when it can be re-painted to suit a new tenant. Clever selection of profiles reduced the bulk of the 2 outside corners, without a big thermal compromise.
The fiberglass skinned, insulated door is tough enough for the retail environment, without the conductivity of steel or aluminum.
So on reflection, actually, its a good application for insulated fiberglass framing.
