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 type of glazing is required in storefront doors?

Code requires safety glazing (tempered or laminated) in storefront doors and any glass within 24 inches of the door. The specific type (tempered, laminated, insulated, low-E) depends on the project specification. Verify the glazing label on each panel.

What is the maximum threshold height for ADA compliance?

The maximum threshold height is 1/2 inch. The transition must be beveled at a maximum slope of 1:2. For new construction, many specifications call for a 1/4-inch maximum.

Do storefront doors need closers?

Closers are required on storefront doors that serve as building entrances for ADA compliance and for any doors in a fire-rated assembly. Even where not code-required, closers are recommended for energy conservation and security.

Frequently Asked Questions

CDF configures complete storefront systems through ProBuilder, including aluminum framing and compatible hardware. Build your storefront assembly at cdfdistributors.com.

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 configures complete storefront systems through ProBuilder. ProBuilder coordinates frame dimensions, glazing specifications, threshold configurations, and hardware selections to ensure all components arrive matched and ready for installation.

CDF Storefront System Support

Storefront hardware includes panic devices, closers, and weatherstripping that must function together for safe egress and weather protection.

• Verify panic hardware (if required) activates across the full width of the push bar

• Test panic hardware releases the latch and allows the door to open freely

• Verify door closer operation — closing speed, latching speed, and backcheck

• Confirm ADA closing time: minimum 5 seconds from 90 degrees to 12 degrees from latch

• Verify weatherstripping makes continuous contact around the full door perimeter when closed

• Test lock function — verify keying matches the project key schedule

• Check door closing speed in wind conditions if exterior doors are exposed

Phase 5: Hardware and Operation

Storefront thresholds must meet ADA requirements for height and profile while providing weather sealing.

• Verify threshold height does not exceed 1/2 inch above the finished floor on each side

• Confirm the threshold has a beveled transition (maximum 1:2 slope) for wheelchair access

• Verify the threshold is level and securely anchored

• Verify clear door opening width is minimum 32 inches (36 inches for primary accessible entrance)

• Confirm the door sweep contacts the threshold evenly across the full width

• Test threshold drainage — water should not pool on the interior side

Phase 4: Threshold and ADA Compliance

Glazing must match the project specification for type, thickness, and safety rating. Incorrect glazing can compromise energy performance, security, and code compliance.

• Verify glass type matches specification (tempered, laminated, insulated, low-E, etc.)

• Verify glass thickness matches the specification

• Confirm safety glazing labels are present where required by code (within 18 inches of floor, within 24 inches of door)

• Verify glazing gaskets are fully seated with no gaps

• Confirm glazing is properly shimmed and centered in the frame with even bite on all sides

• Check for chips, cracks, or scratches on all glass surfaces before sealing

Phase 3: Glazing Verification

The vertical members of the storefront frame must be plumb and the overall assembly must be square for the door to operate correctly.

• Verify each vertical member is plumb — check at two points minimum using a 4-foot level

• Measure diagonals of the door opening — must be within 1/8 inch of each other

• Verify the frame is not bowed or twisted by checking alignment at top, middle, and bottom

• Confirm all frame connections are tight and mechanically fastened per the manufacturer's instructions

• Verify thermal break alignment (if applicable) is continuous and uncompromised

Phase 2: Frame Squareness and Plumb

The header and sill establish the structural frame for the storefront system. Alignment issues at this stage affect every subsequent component.

• Verify the header is level across the full opening width — maximum 1/8 inch variation

• Verify the sill is level across the full opening width — maximum 1/16 inch variation for proper threshold drainage

• Confirm the header height matches the specification for the door and transom configuration

• Verify header anchoring is secure to the structural support above

• Verify sill anchoring is secure and the substrate is structurally adequate

• Check that weep holes or drainage channels in the sill are clear and unobstructed

Phase 1: Header and Sill Alignment

Storefront door systems are multi-component assemblies that include aluminum framing, glazing, thresholds, weatherstripping, and operating hardware. Because these systems are exposed to exterior conditions and high traffic, every component must be verified during installation to ensure weather performance, security, and accessibility compliance.

This checklist covers the complete storefront door installation sequence. Complete each verification step before moving to the next phase.

Storefront System Installation Overview

Verification steps for commercial storefront door system installation including glazing, thresholds, and hardware.

This guide answers: What Should You Verify When Installing a Commercial Storefront Door System?