Before You Buy: Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Vestibule
A vestibule can play a crucial role in enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of a building or business entrance. A vestibule is a small room typically located just inside the main entrance. It serves as a transitional space to the outside world and provides several benefits to both visitors and the building's patrons.
Before deciding what type of vestibule to purchase, it's important to consider several factors to ensure that you choose one that meets your needs..
Where Are Vestibules Used?
Vestibules are used in various settings, from commercial establishments to residential buildings. Their primary purpose is to serve as a lobby or waiting area, but their importance extends beyond that simple function.
For example, some vestibules in commercial buildings serve as entryway buffers, preventing outside elements like wind, rain, and dirt from directly entering the interior.
They can also help minimize heat loss during colder months and provide a place to take off shoes or outerwear before entering the main area. Schools and colleges often have vestibules at their entrances to provide controlled entry and exit for students and visitors.
It's also not uncommon to find these spaces in hospitals, where they can help maintain a hygienic atmosphere.
What Are the Materials That Are Used in Vestibules?
A variety of materials can be used in a vestibule. The one you choose will depend on its intended use, design aesthetics, and specific budget considerations.
Some common materials you'll find in vestibules include aluminum, powder-coated aluminum, and steel. It is also not uncommon to find vestibules made of structural materials such as glass, metal, fabric, wood, concrete, brick, stone, and more.
All of these materials have different advantages and disadvantages. For example, glass is popular in vestibules because it is transparent and creates an open and inviting atmosphere. On the other hand, metal, such as aluminum or steel, is often used for its strength, stability, and resistance to environmental elements.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a lightweight and versatile metal widely used in various applications, including entry door construction. It is known for its excellent durability, making it well-suited to withstand the wear and tear of everyday life and high-traffic areas such as building entrances. Another key benefit of this material is its natural resistance to corrosion.
It forms a protective oxide layer on its surface when exposed to air, preventing rust and deterioration that can occur with other materials.
It is also highly recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice for sustainable building projects.
Powder-Coated Aluminum
Powder-coated aluminum is another great material choice. It differs from regular aluminum in that a thin layer of plastic powder is applied to the surface. This coating provides customers with extra protection against corrosion and adds longevity and appearance to the material.
This type of aluminum also allows for a wide range of color choices. This makes it much easier for designers to match the aesthetics to the overall style of the company or building. The material is also much harder to scratch, which means the surface will retain its pristine appearance for much longer.
Steel
Steel is another very popular material that can be used in vestibules. It is known for being incredibly strong and versatile. It is best suited for vestibules that see a lot of traffic, such as building entrances. It also has a higher load-bearing capacity, which means it can handle heavy loads and support additional features such as canopies.
Steel is also a good choice because it can be finished with various coatings, such as paint or other treatments, to achieve a desired appearance and protect against corrosion. Steel is also inherently fire resistant, which is critical for safety considerations in any building design.
What To Look For When Buying Vestibules?
There are several factors to consider when selecting a vestibule. These are discussed in more detail below but include size and space requirements, durability, materials, weather resistance, ease of installation, ventilation and airflow, safety, and aesthetics.
Size and Space Requirements
One of the most important factors you'll need to consider is the size of the atrium and how it will be used. You'll need to know the number of people it will accommodate, the amount of furniture that will be inside, and more.
Weather Resistance
Depending on where your vestibule is located, it may or may not need to be weatherproof. Make sure the arbor you choose to install is durable and able to withstand the elements, such as rain, wind, snow, and UV exposure.
Installation
Another important factor is the ease of installation. If it's going to be in a permanent location, your requirements are likely to be different than if it needs to be portable. Ease of installation is going to be a much more important factor if you're planning on moving the awning frequently.
Ventilation
An often overlooked element of vestibules is their ventilation and airflow. The vestibule must be well-ventilated to prevent the accumulation of old, stale air and odors and maintain a comfortable temperature.
Safety
If security is an issue, ensure the vestibule enclosure has locking mechanisms or provisions to secure the entry points. This could include fire-resistant materials and sturdy construction. Even the safest vestibule can still be elegant with modern storefront construction for businesses.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics are also important when choosing a vestibule. You'll want to ensure the vestibule complements the overall design and architecture of the building. Ensure you're looking for options that allow customization, such as color choices or branding opportunities.
You'll want to keep your commercial customers in mind whether you need vestibule storage, doors, windows, sun protection, or some other type of barrier.
You'll also want to consider your budget and price point when making your selection. Choosing the right vestibule is an important decision that can determine how your customers experience your business throughout the year.
Conclusion
Selecting the right vestibule for your building or business entrance requires consideration of several critical factors. A well-designed vestibule can enhance the overall experience for visitors and occupants while providing functional benefits such as weather protection and security.
If you have specific questions or need expert guidance in your quest to purchase a vestibule, look no further than Canvas Craft. Our team of professionals is ready to help you find the custom, ideal solution that meets your needs and complements the aesthetics of your building.
You can choose from seasonal enclosures such as winter vestibules that can withstand cold air and inclement weather to those that can withstand the highest levels of foot traffic and enhance the customer experience.
They can be used year-round and are easy to install. Many businesses have their unique needs met by our structures.
Contact us today to discuss your vestibule needs and discover how we can help create a welcoming and functional entrance for your space with easy vestibule installation.
