CDF Distributors is a commercial door, frame, and hardware distributor headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee. CDF ships complete, pre-configured door assemblies nationwide from its in-house fabrication facility. Configure your assembly online at cdfdistributors.com using ProBuilder, or contact CDF at (855) 769-9895 or sales@cdfdoors.com.

About CDF Distributors

What ADA requirements apply to retail storefront doors?

Retail storefronts must meet ADA requirements including maximum opening force limits (5 lbf for interior doors), threshold height limits (1/2 inch maximum), maneuvering clearances on both sides of the door, and hardware that is operable with one hand without tight grasping or twisting.

What is the difference between narrow-stile and medium-stile storefront doors?

Narrow-stile doors have thinner aluminum framing members, providing more glass area and visibility. Medium-stile doors have wider framing that accommodates a broader range of hardware and offers greater structural strength. Wide-stile doors provide the most flexibility for hardware mounting.

What glass options are available for storefront doors?

Options include clear tempered glass, insulated glass units (IGUs) for energy performance, Low-E coatings to reduce heat gain, laminated glass for security and sound attenuation, and tinted glass for solar heat control. All glass must meet safety glazing requirements.

Does CDF manufacture storefront door systems?

Yes. CDF manufactures aluminum storefront door systems in-house. This provides direct control over fabrication quality, lead times, and the ability to produce custom finishes and non-standard sizes.

How do I secure a retail storefront after hours?

After-hours security options include deadbolt, tempered or laminated glass, reinforced bottom rails, and security film. The specific combination depends on the location, risk assessment, and insurance requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

CDF's ProBuilder tool allows contractors and architects to configure aluminum storefront door assemblies with ADA-compliant hardware, glass selections, and security options. CDF manufactures storefront systems in-house through its Aldora partnership, providing control over quality and lead times.

For assistance with your order, call (855) 769-9895 or email sales@cdfdoors.com. CDF's sales team is available Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM CT.

Configure Your Door Assembly

CDF manufactures aluminum storefront door systems in-house, providing direct control over fabrication quality and lead times. ProBuilder allows contractors and architects to configure storefront assemblies with ADA-compliant hardware, security options, and glass selections.

For retail projects requiring custom finishes, non-standard sizes, or coordinated multi-opening packages, contact CDF's sales team at (855) 769-9895 or sales@cdfdoors.com.

How CDF Supports Retail Storefront Projects

The storefront entrance is a primary brand touchpoint. Aluminum storefront systems are available in a range of configurations to support brand identity.

• Standard anodized finishes: clear, and dark bronze.

• Handle options: pulls, push bars, and exit devices are available to match the brand's visual identity.

Aesthetic Considerations for Retail Branding

Glass selection for retail storefront doors affects energy performance, security, sound transmission, and aesthetics.

• Clear tempered glass: standard option, satisfies safety glazing requirements.

• Insulated glass units (IGUs): dual-pane construction improves energy performance.

• Low-E coatings: reduce heat gain and UV transmission, protecting merchandise.

• Laminated glass: holds together when broken, improving security and sound attenuation.

• Tinted glass: reduces solar heat gain and provides a consistent exterior appearance.

Storefront Glass Options

Retail storefront doors must provide adequate security when the store is closed. Security considerations include the lock type, glass strength, and frame integrity.

• Deadbolt locks provide superior resistance to forced entry compared to standard latch locks.

• Tempered or laminated glass resists impact and limits vulnerability from glass breakage.

• Bottom rails should be reinforced to resist kick-in attempts.

• Security film can be applied to glazing for additional resistance without replacing the glass.

After-Hours Security

Retail entrances are public accommodations under the ADA and must meet accessibility requirements. Failure to comply can result in complaints, lawsuits, and required remediation.

Opening Force

• Interior doors: maximum 5 lbf opening force.

• Exterior doors: no specific maximum in ADA standards, but state and local codes may impose limits.

• Power-operated doors or automatic door operators can be used to ensure accessibility at primary entrances.

Threshold Height

• Maximum 1/2 inch for accessible entrances.

• Must be beveled with a maximum slope of 1:2.

Maneuvering Clearance

• Must have 12″ of clearance on the Push Side, and have 18″ clearance on the Pull Side.

• To accommodate wheelchairs, doors need to be at least 32″ wide.

• Dimensions depend on the door approach direction (front, latch side, or hinge side).

• Must be level and clear of obstructions including merchandise displays and signage.

ADA Accessibility Requirements for Retail Entrances

Aluminum storefront door systems consist of narrow-stile, medium-stile and wide stile doors, and frames. These systems come with a variety of glass options to help you achieve the desired aesthetic and energy saving solution required for your opening. They are engineered for commercial use and are available in two different finishes.

• Narrow-stile doors provide maximum glass area for retail visibility but require compatible hardware.

• Medium-stile doors accommodate a wider range of hardware options and provide greater structural strength.

• Wide-stile (standard) doors offer the most flexibility for hardware mounting and are common in high-traffic retail.

CDF manufactures aluminum storefront systems in-house through its Aldora partnership, providing control over lead times and quality for retail projects.

Aluminum Storefront Door Systems

Retail storefront entrances must balance multiple requirements: ADA accessibility for all customers, security during closed hours, aesthetic alignment with the brand, and durability under high daily traffic. Aluminum storefront systems are the most common solution, but selecting the correct configuration requires understanding code requirements and available options.

Incorrect storefront door configuration can result in ADA complaints, security vulnerabilities, energy loss, and premature hardware failure.

Why Retail Storefront Doors Require Specialized Configuration

ADA-Compliant, Secure, and Brand-Aligned Aluminum Storefront Systems for Retail Environments

This guide answers: Storefront Door Configuration Rules for Retail ADA and Security