Storefront Constructed Skylights

Many buildings have storefront-type constructed skylights. There are many reasons why architects and builders should not choose these types of skylights. Here is a list of a few:

1. The structural framing is built on site. The problem is there is a lack of consistency when the cutting and fabricating is done on site. You have errors, design flaws and problems when all build decisions are made in the field concerning the quality of the construction and whether it is good enough or not.
2. The storefront was designed for just that, the front of your store. The cross cap design does not work well with the main rafter, which is designed for vertical applications.
3. When repairing storefront systems (overhead) we frequently find that the original installer does not cap off the sill plates on the ends. This allows water to run out of the drainage pan and is difficult to fix without removing rafters against the wall.
4. Glass replacement can be difficult to get done inexpensively. Storefront materials are designed without exposed fasteners. This makes it more difficult to remove and replace glass on the overhead. In some cases we can’t get the correct replacement clips because they are not manufactured anymore.
5. Weepage systems are not part of the overhead design on storefront materials. Therefore it is up to the installer to build this into the system.

These are just a few of the problems we see with site-built storefront sytems.