Double-door airlock entry systems that save energy, block wind, and meet building code requirements across DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland.
From new vestibule construction to door repair and glass replacement in existing vestibule systems, we provide complete commercial vestibule solutions.
30-50%
Energy Savings
Code
Compliant
ADA
Accessible
20+
Years Experience
Vestibule Configurations
We design, install, and maintain every type of commercial vestibule system for energy efficiency, wind protection, and code compliance.
Two sets of swing doors separated by an enclosed glass space. The most common commercial vestibule configuration,
Both inner and outer doors are automatic sliding doors with motion sensors. Provides maximum ADA accessibility and hands-free entry for high-traffic retail,
Automatic sliding exterior doors with manual swing interior doors, or vice versa. Balances the convenience of automatic operation at the primary entry point ...
Built within the existing building footprint using glass partition walls and doors. Ideal for buildings without exterior space for a vestibule addition.
A glass enclosure added to the building exterior, extending the entrance outward. Provides vestibule functionality without consuming interior floor space.
Interlocking door system where the inner door cannot open until the outer door is closed and locked. Used in banks, government buildings, data centers,
Technical Specifications
Commercial vestibules must meet energy code, ADA, and structural requirements for the DMV climate zone.
Minimum Depth
7 feet between door sets (code minimum)
Door Types
Swing, sliding, automatic, or manual
Glass Options
Tempered, insulated, laminated, Low-E
Frame Material
Aluminum, steel, or stainless steel
Energy Savings
30-50% reduction at entrance
ADA Clearance
32 inch minimum clear width per door
Wind Resistance
Designed for local wind load requirements
Climate Zone
4A (DC/MD/VA) - vestibule required
Applications
Energy codes require vestibules on most commercial buildings in the DMV region. These building types benefit most.
Why Choose Us
Property managers and building owners choose Expert Glass Repair for vestibule design, installation, and maintenance.
Vestibules reduce conditioned air loss by 30 to 50 percent at building entrances. The air buffer zone prevents direct exchange between interior and exterior environments, significantly reducing heating and cooling costs throughout the year.
In the DMV region, strong winds can make single-door entrances difficult to open and allow debris and weather inside. Vestibules provide wind protection for building occupants and prevent wind-driven drafts throughout the lobby.
IECC and ASHRAE 90.1 require vestibules on most commercial buildings in Climate Zone 4A. We design and install vestibule systems that meet all energy code requirements for new construction and building renovations.
Full commercial liability insurance with COI certificates provided for property managers and general contractors across the DMV.
FAQ
Common questions about commercial vestibule and airlock entry systems.
Service Areas
We design, install, and maintain commercial vestibule systems throughout Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland.
DC office buildings and high-rises require vestibules for energy code compliance and wind protection in the urban corridor.
Northern Virginia commercial buildings from Rosslyn to Dulles require vestibules per Virginia energy code requirements.
Maryland energy codes require vestibules on most commercial buildings, and we service the entire I-270 and Route 1 corridor.
Complete commercial entrance solutions including manual swing, balanced doors, and all-glass entry systems.
Learn MoreAutomatic and manual sliding glass doors for high-traffic commercial entrances with ADA compliance.
Learn MoreADA-compliant door hardware, operators, thresholds, and clearances for commercial buildings.
Learn MoreFull-service commercial glass including storefronts, curtain walls, windows, and maintenance programs.
Learn MoreVestibule Expertise
Commercial vestibule systems are a critical component of building envelope design in the Washington DC metropolitan area. The DMV sits in Climate Zone 4A under the International Energy Conservation Code, which means most commercial buildings are required to have vestibules at their primary entrances. These double-door airlock systems create a buffer zone between the exterior environment and the conditioned interior, preventing massive air exchanges every time someone enters or exits the building.
The energy impact of a properly designed vestibule is substantial. Studies consistently show that vestibules reduce energy loss at building entrances by 30 to 50 percent compared to single-door entries. In the DMV climate with extreme summer heat and winter cold, this translates to significant HVAC cost savings over the life of the building. Beyond energy efficiency, vestibules provide wind protection for building occupants, improve comfort in the lobby area, and reduce dirt and debris from entering the building.
Expert Glass Repair designs, installs, and maintains commercial vestibule systems throughout DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland. We work with architects, building owners, and property managers to create vestibule solutions that meet energy code requirements while fitting the available space and matching the building architecture. Our services include new vestibule construction, door replacement and repair within existing vestibules, glass panel replacement, automatic door operator service, and preventive maintenance programs.
Call for a free consultation on vestibule design, installation, or repair for your commercial building.
Fully Insured -- Serving DC, Virginia, and Maryland