Curtain Wall vs Storefront: What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need
Walk past a downtown skyline and you’ll see two very different kinds of glass exteriors without even realizing it. One is the sleek, continuous wall of glass running up the side of a skyscraper. The other frames are inviting shop entrances or office lobbies at street level. Both are common in commercial construction, and both fall under the broad umbrella of “architectural glass systems.” Yet many project owners (and even some contractors) use the terms interchangeably when they mean two very different things: curtain walls vs storefronts.
If you’re deciding between the two, it’s not simply about “which looks better.” The decision affects cost, performance, and whether your project will meet code requirements. Here’s how to tell them apart, and how to choose the one that’s right for your building.
What You’ll Learn:
need a curtain wall or a new storefront?
The Big Difference in a Nutshell
Think of a curtain wall like a giant glass curtain hung on the outside of a building. It’s not holding the building up — the structural frame does that — but it does protect against wind, rain, and temperature changes. Curtain walls can span multiple floors, making them the go-to choice for high-rise offices, hotels, and other tall buildings.
Storefronts, on the other hand, are like display cases for your building. They’re usually installed at the ground level, often no taller than two stories, and they support their weight rather than hanging from the structure above. This makes them perfect for retail shops, restaurants, and small commercial buildings where visibility and easy entry are priorities.
How Building Design and Code Shape the Decision
One of the most common misconceptions we run into at Central Glass Industries is the idea that you can simply pick one or the other based on style or cost. In reality, when deciding between curtain wall vs storefront, how the building is engineered (along with local building codes) often decides for you.
For example:
- A 10-story medical office building will likely need a curtain wall system to handle the wind loads and span height.
- A street-level coffee shop with a corner entrance? A storefront system will almost always make more sense.
Curtain walls can be engineered for heavy-duty performance in extreme weather or seismic zones, while storefronts are designed for more modest structural demands. Choosing the right one maximizes efficiency and ensures full compliance.
Performance and Energy Efficiency
Curtain walls typically outperform storefronts when it comes to keeping the outside out. Their design allows for better control of water infiltration, air leakage, and thermal transfer. Modern curtain wall systems can be fitted with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings, double or triple glazing, and thermal breaks that significantly improve energy performance.
Storefront systems, while generally less insulated, can still be efficient in the right context. For a small retail space that isn’t battling intense wind or sun exposure, a high-quality insulated glass unit in a storefront frame can keep heating and cooling costs in check without overspending on a full curtain wall.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, windows can account for 25–30% of a building’s heating and cooling energy use. That makes your choice of system — and glass — an important factor in long-term operating costs.
Cost: Where the Numbers Land
Curtain walls are almost always the more expensive option. They involve more engineering, custom fabrication, and complex installation. The payoff is in performance, durability, and architectural impact.
Storefront systems, in contrast, are quicker and less costly to install. For small to mid-scale projects, they can deliver the look and accessibility you want without consuming a large portion of the budget.
It’s worth noting that cost differences aren’t just in the materials; labor, installation equipment, and maintenance all scale up with a curtain wall system.
Aesthetics and First Impressions
From a design perspective, curtain walls create that seamless, all-glass look that defines many modern city skylines. They can be customized with tinted glass, fritted patterns, or structural glazing for a nearly invisible frame.
Storefronts, while less imposing, have their own design strengths. They can be built to match a building’s architectural style, provide maximum visibility into the space, and create a welcoming entry point for customers. In retail, that clear view into the store is as much a marketing asset as it is a design choice.
Glass Options for Each System
Both systems can work with a range of glass types depending on your needs:
Common Storefront Glass Types
- Tempered glass: stronger and safer than standard glass
- Laminated glass: adds security and sound control
- Insulated glass units (IGUs): improve thermal performance
Common Curtain Wall Glass Types
- Low-E coated glass: reduces heat transfer without blocking light
- Double or triple glazing: boosts energy efficiency
- Custom fritted or tinted glass: adds privacy or reduces glare
Making the Call with Central Glass Industries
If your project involves multiple stories, heavy wind loads, or you’re aiming for a bold architectural statement, a curtain wall is likely the right call. If you’re designing a ground-level space where budget, access, and visibility are the priorities, a storefront system may serve you better.
Either way, it’s worth talking to your glass and glazing contractor early in the design process. At Central Glass Industries, we work alongside architects and builders to ensure the system not only looks great but also meets code, fits the budget, and performs for decades.
The best projects don’t treat this choice as an afterthought. Whether your building rises 20 stories or sits at the corner of Main Street, the right glass system can be the difference between a functional exterior and one that truly makes an impression.
Serving Newark, Palo Alto, Fremont, Union City, Milpitas, Hayward, and surrounding cities for over 40 years, we’re your trusted partner for everything from windows and doors to custom railings, mirrors, and shower enclosures. No project is too big or too small—whether you’re upgrading your windows for energy efficiency or enhancing your interiors with custom glass, our in-house team of experts will bring your vision to life.
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FAQs
What is the difference between a curtain wall and a storefront system?
A curtain wall is a non-structural exterior system designed for high-rise buildings, while a storefront system is typically used for ground-level applications and can handle lighter structural and environmental demands.
Is a curtain wall more expensive than a storefront system?
Yes, curtain walls generally cost more due to their complex engineering, materials, and ability to withstand greater wind and weather loads.
When should I use a curtain wall instead of a storefront?
Use a curtain wall for multi-story or high-performance buildings that need strong weather resistance, thermal performance, and structural integrity at greater heights.