FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.

We build exclusively with thermally broken aluminum, the same alloy used in commercial curtain wall systems. Thermally broken means the interior and exterior aluminum profiles are separated by a polyamide insulating barrier, which dramatically reduces heat transfer and condensation. Every frame is powder-coated in our factory with a choice of over 200 RAL colors, including custom matches.

A thermally broken frame has a structural polyamide insert between the inner and outer aluminum profiles. Without it, metal conducts cold (or heat) straight through the frame, causing energy loss and condensation on the interior surface. With a thermal break, your frames stay closer to room temperature, your HVAC works less and you avoid the moisture problems that lead to mold and wood damage around frames.

Yes. We offer a full line of hurricane-impact-rated doors and windows certified to ASTM E1886/E1996 large-missile impact standards and HVHZ (High Velocity Hurricane Zone) approval. These systems are tested to 150+ mph wind loads and carry product approval numbers for use in Florida, Texas Gulf Coast and other high-wind jurisdictions. We can provide the specific NOA or FL Product Approval number for any system on request.

Yes. Our thermally broken aluminum systems qualify for Energy Star certification in all U.S. climate zones. We can provide NFRC-certified U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) data sheets for any product so your architect or energy consultant can model compliance.

Our pivot and swing doors regularly go up to 12 feet tall and 5 feet wide in a single leaf. Sliding and multi-slide systems can span 60+ feet of opening with panels up to 20 feet per section. The practical limit is structural, we work with your structural engineer to specify the correct sill and header for the span. Call us with your rough opening dimensions and we'll tell you exactly what's achievable.

We source commercial-grade insulated glass units (IGUs) with a standard configuration of dual-pane, low-E coated, argon-filled. For coastal or high-humidity climates we recommend triple-pane or warm-edge spacers. Laminated safety glass is standard on all impact-rated products and available as an upgrade on any system. Tints, frits, privacy glass and smart-glass (electrochromic) inserts are all available.

There are four phases: (1) Consultation, we review your architectural drawings or site photos, recommend systems and provide a budgetary range. (2) Design and Engineering, once you move forward, we produce shop drawings, engineering calculations and thermal/acoustic performance sheets for permit submission. (3) Fabrication, your order enters our production queue; lead times are typically 10 to 16 weeks from signed contract depending on system complexity. (4) Installation, our field crews handle delivery, setting, shimming, sealing and hardware commissioning. A final walkthrough confirms everything meets spec.

Standard lead times are 10 to 14 weeks for most pivot, swing and sliding door systems. Large multi-slide and curtain wall projects or orders with custom RAL colors requiring a dedicated batch, may run 14 to 18 weeks. We confirm lead time in your proposal. Rush production (6 to 8 weeks) is available at a surcharge for projects that qualify, ask us.

We prepare and stamp the required shop drawings, structural calculations and product approval documentation that your building department needs. In most jurisdictions you or your GC pulls the permit using our package. In markets where we have established relationships with local AHJs, we can facilitate submission directly. We do not act as a licensed general contractor for permitting purposes, but we support the process completely.

No. Many clients come to us in the early design phase and we collaborate with their architect. Others come with finished permit drawings. And some, especially on residential renovation projects, come with a rough idea and photos of the existing opening. We can work at any stage of the project. The more information you share, the more accurate our initial pricing will be.

We ship and install nationwide. Our field installation crews travel across the U.S. For very large projects in markets where we don't have a local crew, we partner with vetted subcontractors who work under our direct supervision and meet our installation standards. Freight is coordinated by our logistics team, you don't need to arrange trucking.

Our installation scope includes: site verification of rough openings, delivery coordination and unloading, frame setting and shimming, waterproofing and air-sealing per AAMA standards, glass installation (if not pre-glazed), hardware commissioning and adjustment and a full punch-list walkthrough. We do not do finish drywall, stucco return or interior trim, those are typically completed by your GC after our frames are set.

We provide a 5-year limited warranty on fabrication and finish (powder coat) and a 2-year warranty on hardware and glass seals. Our structural performance warranty (no warping, racking or sash failure under normal use) is 10 years. Impact-rated systems carry the manufacturer's product approval, which meets or exceeds code. Warranty claims are handled directly by our team, not routed through a distributor.

Very little. Wipe frames with a mild soap solution annually and inspect the weatherstripping. Hardware, hinges, rollers, handles, should be lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant every 12 to 18 months. Avoid petroleum-based lubricants; they degrade rubber seals. Pivot and sliding systems with heavy traffic (commercial or large families) benefit from an annual hardware adjustment to maintain smooth operation. We offer maintenance contracts in markets where we have local crews.

Yes, retrofit and replacement is a significant portion of our business. If your rough opening is sound (no rot, correct framing), we can remove the existing unit and set a new Elite system. We take field measurements directly to ensure the new frame fits precisely. In some cases minor framing adjustments are needed; we'll flag those in the site survey.

Fill out our contact form or call us at (310) 487-3334. Share as much information as you have: rough opening dimensions, which product type you're interested in, your project timeline and where the project is located. We'll respond within one business day to schedule a consultation call and, if warranted, a site visit.

The main cost drivers are: (1) system size, larger panels require heavier extrusions and more glass; (2) configuration, number of panels, swing direction, pocket vs. bypass sliding; (3) glass specification, standard dual-pane low-E vs. triple-pane, laminated or smart glass; (4) hardware, flush pulls, multipoint locks, motorized operators; (5) finish, standard stock colors are less expensive than custom RAL matches; and (6) installation distance and complexity. We build to precise tolerances, so the quote you get is the price you pay.

We work with several commercial financing partners who can structure payment over 12 to 60 months for qualified projects. Ask us for details when you request a quote. For standard residential projects we typically require a 50% deposit at contract signing and the balance on substantial completion of installation.