Commercial vs. Residential Glass - Which One Should You Choose?

Have you ever wondered if you could choose between commercial or residential glass for home window glass repair? Do you know which one you should choose?  Maybe you are considering storefront windows for residential use. Are you wondering if commercial sliding glass windows could be used in your home?

Many people assume that commercial and residential glass are interchangeable, though, despite their appearances, residential and commercial glass performs different functions according to their thickness and structure.

When you find yourself searching for “home repair companies near me”, know that the best glass replacement companies will inform you that commercial glass generally works best on storefronts for businesses, hotels, schools, and other public buildings, whereas residential glass is most optimal for home window repair. 

Certainly, both residential and commercial glass need to be strong, durable and long lasting. Let’s take a look at the key differences between commercial and residential glass when considering home window repair.



Window glass thickness is the most notable difference between commercial and residential windows. Common commercial glass is ¼ inches thick compared to residential glass, which is most often 1/8 inches thick.

Residential windows can come with a variety of frames for interior design purposes, while aluminum framing is commonly used for commercial glass windows. Glass replacement companies will use thicker window glass on commercial buildings because the windows are much larger and exposed to more hazards.  Conversely, a glass repair company will likely recommend insulated glass thickness for strength and longevity in a home.

Yes, commercial glass is thicker and stronger than residential, but commercial glass does not always offer the best strength and longevity for your home. Residential insulated glass thickness, for instance, provides window strength comparable to commercial glass while also reducing outside noise. 

Insulated window glass, which has two window panes separated by a gas-filled vacuum space to minimize temperature transfers from the outside climate, is frequently used in residential window installations. Types of commercial windows use thicker, single pane glass for strength and installation capabilities. Different types of window glass materials are designed to excel for their intended purposes. 



There’s a reason why windows with commercial glass come in simple designs. Commercial storefront glass is designed to let in more light for larger business spaces. When more light is needed, larger window frames and glass panes are required for commercial window sizes, which restricts design possibilities.

There are many options for residential window designs, including geometric shapes as well as frosting, tints and textures that can be used for design and function flexibility. 



Generally, the cost of commercial windows will be higher than residential windows due to the glass thickness, size, and installation process they require. However, compared to today's high-end residential window types, this isn't always true. Homeowners have so many window options to choose from such as double and triple paned windows, types of tempered glass, and shapes of windows. Business owners can be surprised at how quickly commercial window repair or replacement can be completed with affordable prices.

Bottom line: Many factors will affect the cost of both residential and commercial glass.



Safety and Energy Efficiency

The best glass replacement companies provide safe and energy efficient windows for both residential and commercial glass windows.

At Becky’s Glass Works, we provide commercial glass window replacements as well as storefront glass repair and commercial window repair services. We love serving our local homeowners with residential glass repair services including glass door repair and storm door glass repair.   

Commercial and Residential Glass Service Varies Depending on These Factors

Usually, commercial glass windows work best for commercial buildings and residential glass works best for home window repair or replacements. There are situations, however, where commercial glass windows could work great for residential use and vice versa. You should therefore find your "best glass replacement companies near me" for glass experts who can advise you on what type of commercial or residential windows are best for you.

Worried About Which Glass Service to Choose?

Becky’s Glass Works is your local one-stop shop glass replacement company for residential, commercial and auto glass repairs and installations in Mount Airy, NC.

With over 40 years of extensive experience in the industry delivering commercial, residential and auto glass service, Becky’s Glass Works is a comprehensive glass company you can depend on. Our experience with glass door repairs, sliding glass door repairs, storm door glass repairs, entry glass repairs, furniture glass repairs, shower glass repairs, and wall mirror repairs makes us one of the best, cost-effective home improvement investments you could possibly make!

Contact Becky's Glass Works Today for Commercial and Residential Glass Services

Call our experts at 336-789-3998 and request our services here for excellent Sliding Glass Door inspection and installation services, and experience the difference working with a local team can make!