Storefront Glass vs Curtain Wall Systems: What Works Best for Surrey Commercial Buildings?

Choosing the right exterior glass system is a critical decision for any commercial building owner or developer in Surrey, British Columbia. Glass façades are no longer just about aesthetics—they impact energy efficiency, safety, maintenance costs, building performance, and long-term ROI.

Two of the most common systems used in modern commercial construction are storefront glass systems and curtain wall systems. While they may look similar to the untrained eye, they are fundamentally different in design, performance, and application.

At Pacific Glass Ltd, we regularly help Surrey business owners, property managers, architects, and contractors determine which glass system best suits their building. This in-depth guide breaks down the key differences, advantages, costs, and use cases of storefront glass vs curtain wall systems—specifically for Surrey’s commercial environment.

Understanding Surrey’s Commercial Building Landscape

Surrey is one of the fastest-growing cities in British Columbia, featuring a diverse mix of:

• Retail plazas
  
• Office buildings
  
• Medical clinics
  
• Warehouses
  
• Mixed-use developments
  

With increased development comes stricter BC Building Code compliance, higher expectations for energy efficiency, and greater emphasis on modern architectural design.

Selecting the wrong glass system can lead to:

• Higher energy costs
  
• Structural limitations
  
• Premature repairs
  
• Code compliance issues
  

That’s why understanding the difference between storefront and curtain wall systems is essential.

What Is a Storefront Glass System?

A storefront glass system is a non-structural, ground-level glazing system commonly used in commercial buildings.

Key Characteristics of Storefront Glass:

• Installed between floor slabs
  
• Typically used on lower levels
  
• Aluminum framing with glass infill
  
• Relies on the building structure for support
  

Storefront systems are widely used for:

• Retail storefronts
  
• Restaurants
  
• Small offices
  
• Commercial entrances
  

Why Storefront Glass Is Popular in Surrey

Storefront systems are cost-effective, versatile, and ideal for many low-rise commercial properties throughout Surrey.

Advantages of Storefront Glass Systems

1. Cost-Effective Installation

Storefront glass systems are generally less expensive than curtain wall systems, making them ideal for small to mid-sized commercial projects.

2. Faster Installation Timeline

Because storefront systems are installed piece-by-piece on-site, they are easier and quicker to install—minimizing construction delays.

3. Flexible Design Options

Storefront glass can be customized with:

• Tempered or laminated safety glass
  
• Tinted or Low-E glass
  
• Aluminum finishes
  

4. Ideal for Retail Visibility

Large display windows help attract foot traffic, which is essential for Surrey retail businesses.

Limitations of Storefront Glass Systems

Despite their benefits, storefront systems are not suitable for every building.

Structural Limitations

Storefront glass is not load-bearing and cannot span multiple floors.

Energy Performance Constraints

While modern storefront systems can be energy efficient, they generally do not match curtain wall performance in high-rise buildings.

Height Restrictions

Best suited for:

• Single-story buildings
  
• Ground-floor applications
  

What Is a Curtain Wall System?

A curtain wall system is a self-supporting exterior façade that hangs from the building structure rather than relying on it.

Key Characteristics of Curtain Walls:

• Spans multiple floors
  
• Engineered to withstand wind and seismic loads
  
• Installed outside the floor slabs
  
• Offers superior thermal performance
  

Curtain wall systems are commonly used in:

• Office towers
  
• Medical facilities
  
• Institutional buildings
  
• Mid- to high-rise commercial developments
  

Advantages of Curtain Wall Systems for Surrey Buildings

1. Superior Structural Performance

Curtain walls are engineered to handle:

• High wind loads
  
• Seismic activity (important in BC)
  
• Large glass spans
  

2. Enhanced Energy Efficiency

Curtain wall systems support:

• Advanced insulated glass units
  
• Thermal breaks
  
• Improved air and water resistance
  

This leads to lower heating and cooling costs—important for large Surrey office buildings.

3. Modern Architectural Appeal

Curtain walls create sleek, uninterrupted glass façades that elevate property value and brand image.

4. Long-Term Durability

While the upfront cost is higher, curtain wall systems often deliver long-term savings through reduced maintenance and energy efficiency.

Limitations of Curtain Wall Systems

Higher Initial Cost

Curtain wall systems require:

• Engineering
  
• Fabrication
  
• Specialized installation
  

Longer Project Timelines

Prefabrication and coordination add complexity.

Not Always Necessary

For low-rise retail or small commercial buildings, curtain walls may be over-engineered.

Storefront Glass vs Curtain Wall: Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Storefront Glass	Curtain Wall System
Structural Support	Relies on building	Self-supporting
Best For	Ground-level use	Multi-story buildings
Cost	Lower	Higher
Energy Efficiency	Moderate	High
Installation	On-site	Engineered & prefabricated
Design Impact	Traditional	Modern & sleek

Which System Is Best for Surrey Commercial Buildings?

The right choice depends on building height, use, budget, and long-term goals.

Storefront Glass Is Best If:

• Your building is 1–3 stories
  
• You operate a retail or restaurant space
  
• Budget efficiency is a priority
  
• You need fast installation
  

Curtain Wall Systems Are Best If:

• Your building is multi-story
  
• You want maximum energy efficiency
  
• Architectural appearance matters
  
• You’re investing in long-term performance
  

At Pacific Glass Ltd, we help Surrey property owners evaluate these factors before recommending a solution.

Energy Efficiency Considerations in Surrey’s Climate

Surrey experiences:

• Wet winters
  
• Mild summers
  
• High humidity
  

Poor glass selection can lead to:

• Condensation
  
• Heat loss
  
• Higher energy bills
  

Curtain wall systems typically perform better in:

• Thermal insulation
  
• Air tightness
  
• Moisture control
  

However, modern storefront systems can still meet energy codes when properly specified and installed.

Safety & BC Building Code Compliance

Both systems must comply with:

• BC Building Code (BCBC)
  
• Safety glazing requirements
  
• Seismic standards
  

Common safety glass options include:

• Tempered glass
  
• Laminated glass
  
• Insulated glass units
  

Professional installation by experienced contractors like Pacific Glass Ltd ensures full compliance.

Maintenance & Repair Considerations

Storefront Glass Maintenance

• Easier repairs
  
• Lower replacement costs
  
• Individual panels can be replaced
  

Curtain Wall Maintenance

• More complex repairs
  
• Requires specialized technicians
  
• Longer service life overall
  

Planning for maintenance is essential for long-term budgeting.

What Should Surrey Businesses Expect?

Storefront Glass Costs

• Lower upfront investment
  
• Ideal for budget-conscious projects
  

Curtain Wall Costs

• Higher initial cost
  
• Better long-term energy savings
  

While exact pricing depends on design and materials, Pacific Glass Ltd provides transparent estimates tailored to Surrey projects.

Retrofitting Existing Surrey Commercial Buildings

Many older Surrey buildings can benefit from:

• Storefront glass upgrades
  
• Partial curtain wall retrofits
  
• Energy-efficient glass replacement
  

Upgrading glass systems can improve:

• Building appearance
  
• Tenant comfort
  
• Property value
  

Why Work With a Local Surrey Glass Expert?

Local experience matters.

Pacific Glass Ltd understands:

• Surrey zoning and permit requirements
  
• Local climate challenges
  
• BC safety and energy codes
  

We work closely with:

• Business owners
  
• Contractors
  
• Architects
  
• Property managers
  

Final Thoughts 

There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

The best system depends on:

• Building size
  
• Usage
  
• Budget
  
• Performance goals
  

For many Surrey retail spaces, storefront glass is practical and cost-effective. For larger developments and office buildings, curtain wall systems deliver long-term performance and modern appeal.

Consulting a professional glass contractor ensures you make the right investment.

FAQs