Shopfronts for car showrooms
A car showroom needs a long clear view of the stock, big openings for moving vehicles in and out, and glazing that can take a knock from a bumper. Light is the other issue, since glare and heat build up behind large panes facing a forecourt. Most showrooms use curtain walling or large aluminium screens, a vehicle door or bi-fold section, and glass chosen for safety as well as for how it looks.
What matters most?
Long clear spans
Curtain walling to BS EN 13830 carries large panes with slim mullions. Spans and glass sizes need checking for wind load at each site.
A way to get the cars in
A wide bi-fold or roller door lets vehicles in without removing glass. Powered doors need safety devices and regular servicing.
Protection at bumper height
Safety glass and a solid low-level upstand reduce the risk from a slow-moving car. Barriers on the forecourt side may also be worth considering.
Control of glare and heat
Solar-control glass and external canopies reduce heat build-up and reflections. That keeps the showroom comfortable and makes the cars easier to see.
In England, showrooms for selling or displaying motor vehicles are sui generis, outside the main use classes. Turning a shop or other unit into a showroom usually needs planning permission. Other UK nations run separate systems, so confirm with your council early.
Common questions
What does curtain walling cost for a showroom?
Curtain walling is £550 to £950 ex VAT per m². A showroom price depends on height, glass specification and any structural steel, so we survey first and confirm a written fixed quote.
Can you replace one large showroom pane?
Yes. A large pane may need lifting gear and a pavement plan, which we confirm after a charged diagnostic visit, from £125 ex VAT. Standard shop glass is £195 to £895 ex VAT per pane, and oversize panes are priced individually.