There are four main grades assigned to windows by the North American Fenestration Standard. When choosing commercial windows for your Clarksville, MD, business, it is important to know what kind of windows are available to meet your needs.
- (R)—Residential: Residential windows are generally used in single- and two-family dwellings. These windows have a lower load-bearing capability and are not as resistant to high-pressure winds. Residential windows are generally unsuitable for a business structure.
- (LC)—Light Commercial: Light commercial windows are used in low- or mid-rise multi-family dwellings, like small or single-story apartment buildings. They are thicker and able to bear more weight than residential windows.
- (CW)—Commercial Windows: Commercial windows work for most low- and mid-rise buildings that have specific requirements regarding higher loads, light deflection, and durability. Commercial windows are suitable for most single-story businesses and are generally larger to let more light into the building.
- (AW)—Architectural Windows: Architectural windows have the highest load bearing, light deflection, and durability standards. They are used in mid- to -high-rise businesses that require adherence to the highest and most demanding fenestration (window arrangement) standards. Architectural windows can withstand the elements that higher buildings face, like high pressure winds.
Additionally, commercial-grade windows are specifically designed to limit the amount of solar heat gain inside of a building. Buildings are generally hotter inside due to a larger number of people and machinery operating inside. Limiting solar heat gain means limiting the amount of external heat entering the building, which can lower your air-conditioning costs.
For more information on what type of commercial windows your Clarksville, MD, business requires, please contact Liberty Windows & Siding Inc.
