CHI Full-View Aluminum

Both Full-View Aluminum and Sterling are aluminum-and-glass doors, but they differ in positioning and features. Full-View Aluminum is CHI’s value-oriented modern glass door offering essential contemporary design at accessible pricing. Sterling is the premium version, offering 35 powder-coat colors (versus Full-View’s 9), more frame design options, potentially higher-grade aluminum extrusions, and additional customization. Full-View Aluminum delivers the modern glass aesthetic—natural light, contemporary appeal, and aluminum durability—at a non-premium price. It’s ideal for budget-conscious modern design. Sterling offers more extensive personalization and premium finishes. Both feature commercial-grade aluminum frames with large glass panels.

CHI Full-View Aluminum offers 9 powder-coat colors covering essential modern palette: White (clean modern classic), Black (bold contemporary statement), Bronze (warm metallic), Silver (sleek neutral), Sandstone/Tan (warm neutral), Gray variations (modern sophistication), and potentially additional architectural neutrals. These core colors accommodate most modern exterior color schemes. The powder-coat finish provides durability, corrosion resistance, and UV stability. While fewer options than Sterling’s 35 colors, the 9 colors represent the most popular modern choices. For projects requiring extensive color matching or unique hues, Sterling provides more flexibility. Full-View’s curated palette balances options with value pricing.

CHI Full-View Aluminum offers standard glass choices for modern design: Clear glass (maximum transparency and natural light), Frosted glass (privacy while maintaining brightness), Obscure glass (textured patterns for privacy), Tinted glass (bronze, gray, or custom tints for solar control), and Insulated glass (double-pane with improved energy efficiency). Some panels can use solid aluminum instead of glass for privacy or design variation. You can mix glass types—clear on upper sections for views and light, frosted on lower sections for privacy. All glass is tempered safety glass meeting impact resistance standards. Insulated glass recommended for climate-controlled garages.

Yes, CHI Full-View Aluminum is engineered specifically for residential use despite its commercial-grade appearance. The aluminum construction provides adequate strength for standard residential garage openings. Tempered safety glass meets residential building codes. However, considerations include: Security—glass is more vulnerable than steel to break-in attempts; consider locations and neighborhood. Privacy—glass provides visibility into the garage; use frosted/obscure glass or window coverings. Insulation—even with insulated glass, thermal performance is less than that of insulated steel doors. Climate—aluminum resists rust, making it ideal for coastal areas. Full-View works best for: Detached garages, Modern homes prioritizing design over maximum security, Warm climates, Workshop/studio spaces benefiting from natural light.

Full-View Aluminum requires slightly different maintenance, but not necessarily more, than steel doors. Aluminum frames: Naturally corrosion-resistant (no rust), powder-coat finish is very durable, occasional washing with mild soap and water, no painting or refinishing needed. Glass panels: Regular cleaning to maintain transparency and appearance (more frequent than steel doors, requiring only occasional washing), standard glass cleaner and soft cloth, inspect weatherseals around glass. Hardware: Annual lubrication is the same as that of steel doors. Overall maintenance is minimal and straightforward. The aluminum won’t corrode in coastal environments where steel might rust. Glass cleaning is the primary difference—more frequent to maintain the clean, transparent modern aesthetic.

CHI Full-View Aluminum can be engineered for wind loads, including hurricane zones, but requires specific reinforcement. Standard configurations provide adequate wind resistance for most locations. For high-wind or hurricane zones, specify: reinforced aluminum framing; impact-resistant glass or polycarbonate panels; commercial-grade hardware and track systems; and engineering calculations for specific wind-load requirements per local building codes. Consult with CHI dealers about wind load capabilities and necessary reinforcements. The aluminum construction is inherently wind-resistant due to its strength-to-weight ratio, but large glass panels require proper engineering. Many modern coastal homes successfully use Full-View Aluminum with appropriate wind-load specifications. Verify local code requirements before specifying.