Aluminum doors are the backbone of most commercial storefronts. They’re durable, low-maintenance, and provide a sleek, modern look that stands up to high traffic and tough weather. But not all aluminum doors are the same—and choosing the right one can make or break a project.
Whether you’re a glazing contractor or a general contractor managing a retail, office, or public building installation, this guide will help you make the right choice based on performance, appearance, and code requirements.
Why Aluminum?
Aluminum doors offer key advantages over wood or steel in commercial builds:
- Lightweight but strong
- Resistant to rust and corrosion
- Supports large glass inserts
- Energy-efficient when paired with the right glass
- Low maintenance with long service life
With the right framing and hardware, aluminum doors deliver years of reliable use without warping, cracking, or fading—especially important in climates like Texas, Oklahoma, and the surrounding states.
Know Your Door Types
There are several types of aluminum doors used in storefronts. Each is designed for a specific purpose:
- Narrow stile doors: Best for interior use or light commercial traffic.
- Medium stile doors: The most popular choice for retail and office entrances. They offer a balance of strength and aesthetics.
- Wide stile doors: Designed for high-traffic areas like schools, hospitals, and government buildings.
- Thermally broken doors: Include an insulating barrier within the frame, ideal for energy-efficient designs.
Pair the door stile with compatible framing and glazing to meet building codes and design expectations.
Choose the Right Glass and Hardware
Most commercial aluminum doors come with a large glass insert. Clear tempered glass is the standard, but depending on your project needs, consider:
- Laminated glass for added security and sound control
- Low-E glass to improve energy efficiency
- Tinted or patterned glass for privacy and style
- Insulated glass units (IGUs) to control indoor temperature and meet energy codes
Do not overlook hardware. Heavy-duty hinges, door closers, panic bars, and ADA-compliant handles are essential for safety and accessibility. Make sure the hardware is rated for commercial use and matches the door finish.
Understand Building and Code Requirements
Each city or region may have different codes related to:
- Door width and clearance
- Accessibility (ADA compliance)
- Fire ratings and emergency egress
- Energy performance (especially U-factor and SHGC ratings)
Be sure to check local codes in your project’s state—whether you’re building in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, or Missouri—and verify that your door system meets all required standards.
Think About Aesthetics and Branding
Function is key, but appearance matters too. Many businesses want their storefronts to reflect their brand. Aluminum doors are available in a range of finishes, including:
- Clear or bronze anodized
- Painted or powder-coated in custom colors
- Woodgrain finishes for upscale retail settings
You can also incorporate logos, custom glass patterns, or sidelights to elevate the visual appeal.
Partner with a Trusted Supplier
Choosing the right aluminum door isn’t just about selecting a product—it’s about partnering with a supplier who understands the needs of glazing and general contractors. At Sky Building Materials, we help professionals across Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas find high-performance storefront doors, framing systems, and compatible hardware that meet every spec and code requirement.
From heavy-duty entry systems to energy-efficient aluminum solutions, we stock the products and brands contractors trust.
Ready to find the right aluminum doors for your next project?
Contact us directly through our Sky Building Materials Contact Page, or explore inspiration and insights on our Sky Building Materials Facebook Page.