Quick answer: Aluminum storefront systems are identified by series number that indicates face dimension (the visible width of the mullion) and depth. The most-installed systems on Florida commercial projects are ESWindows ES-9500 (1-3/4" face, thermally broken), ESWindows ES-8000T (2" face, thermally broken), ES-CS1325 (2-1/4" face, thermally broken), and ES-CS1325 (2-1/2" face, thermally broken). Each has different wind ratings, glass thicknesses, and price points.
The first digit indicates face dimension category. The 'T' suffix indicates a thermal break (a polyamide isolator between the interior and exterior aluminum that improves U-factor). ESWindows ES-9500 has 1-3/4" face. ESWindows ES-8000T has 2" face. ESWindows ES-CS1325 has 2-1/4" face. ESWindows ES-CS1325 has 2-1/2" face. Deeper systems = higher wind ratings and larger spans.
1-3/4" face, 4-1/2" depth. Standard for ground-floor retail, restaurant, and office TI. Single-glazed (1/4" tempered) up to 12 feet tall. Max wind pressure roughly 35-50 PSF depending on glass and span. Cheapest in the family. Best for inland Florida, non-HVHZ work, and small storefront jobs.
2" face, 4-1/2" depth. Same depth as ESWindows ES-9500 but wider face. Accepts insulated glass (1" IG) and laminated impact glass. Standard for HVHZ retail and restaurant work. Max height around 14 feet.
2-1/4" face, 5" depth. Standard for hotel ground floor, larger restaurant fronts, and medical office buildings. Accepts 1" IG and impact glass. Max height around 16 feet.
2-1/2" face, 6" depth. For high-wind exposures (HVHZ Zone 4), tall storefronts (16-20 feet), and storefront-to-curtain-wall transition zones. Accepts thick laminated IG.
Calculate design wind pressure first. Match the system's tested DP rating to your project's calculated DP, with a 20% safety margin. Then size for opening height. Then optimize for cost. Never spec a system that's under-rated for your wind load — it won't pass permit.
ESWindows ES-9500 has a 1-3/4" face dimension and a 4-1/2" depth, designed for single-glazed assemblies. ESWindows ES-8000T has a 2" face and accepts insulated and impact glass. ESWindows ES-8000T is the upgrade typically required for HVHZ work.
For HVHZ-rated storefront, ESWindows ES-8000T, ES-CS1325 (or equivalent thermally-broken systems from other manufacturers) are most common. The specific series depends on wind load and opening height.
The 'T' indicates a thermal break — a polyamide isolator inside the aluminum extrusion that reduces heat transfer. Thermal-break systems are required by FBC Energy Conservation chapter on most commercial buildings.
Yes, but each section must independently meet wind load requirements. It's most common to use a heavier-duty system on corner zones (higher wind pressure) and a standard system on field walls.
Multiple manufacturers produce equivalent systems: ESWindows, US Aluminum, and EFCO are the major brands. Profiles, ratings, and NOAs differ slightly between manufacturers.
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