Confused on how to select the best full-view garage door for your commercial building? Compare Clopay models 904 to 905/906 to pick a door that’s an ideal match.

Full-view commercial overhead doors can work wonders to help enhance your indoor and outdoor spaces, complement your business and add visual interest. With different models and customization options, the decision can be overwhelming. The ideal garage door will depend on a few factors, including your business’s exterior features and its use. We’ve broken down key features of the Architectural Series 904 and 905 and 906 full-view doors to help you select a style that works best for your commercial building.

Full-View Door Models

There are two kinds of Architectural Series-Aluminum full-view doors to choose from, and the main difference between them is how they look.

Model 904 has single and double end stiles with center stiles on the back of each door section for added support, separating the glass into smaller, individual glass panels.

Model 905/906 panels are designed with a solid piece of glass without center stiles, offering a more sleek and modern design.

5 Things to Consider When Choosing Your Full-View Door

1. Section Height

   When choosing your full-view garage door, it's important to factor in the height of the door sections. For instance, on an 8 ft. door: the model 904 would consist of four sections, while models 905/906 would require six sections. These variations directly impact the door's structural strength and design possibilities. Wider sections in the 905 and 906 allow for larger glass panels. These doors can accommodate solid glass panels up to 10 ft. 2 inches wide, with minimal visible stiles beyond that.

2. Design and Application

   When comparing the designs, the 904 has a more traditional style whereas models 905 and 906 sport a clean, modern aesthetic. This comes from the differences in the section heights described above and the separation created by the reduced number of stiles.

   The 904 model stands out for its sleeker aesthetic compared to other models in the market. It features balanced stile spacing, with rail and stile profiles that are proportionally aligned. All of these features lend the door’s polished aesthetic. Clopay 904 is a great fit for fire stations, auto repair shops, vehicle bays, and more industrial applications.

   Models 905 and 906 feature an elegant minimalistic panel design, smoothing harsh lines and angles. Balanced rails and stiles fuse with consistent spacing for an impressively clean and modern look. These doors are best suited for contemporary commercial builds, like sports bars, hotels, offices, showrooms, and restaurants.

3. Customization

   For customized doors, you have plenty of options to choose from. Both 904 and 905/906 models offer standard anodized finishes. If you’re craving a more unique look, you can access Clopay's complete selection of custom colors through their Color Blast® program, giving you thousands of color options. You can also choose from an impressive array of glass and panels to compliment the door’s design.

4. Insulation

   Insulated versions include models 904U, 905U, and 906U. These doors are engineered with Intellicore® polyurethane insulated rails. Even with a full-view design, these doors prioritize insulation, ensuring a comfortable and energy-efficient space. Low-E glass options are only available on models 904U and 906U.

   Before making a decision between models 904, 905, and 906 for your commercial building, consider these important factors: section height, design, customization options, and insulation. Take the time to compare the advantages and disadvantages of each option to find the best fit for your building.

5. Local Code Requirements

   Across the country there has an increased emphasis on building structures that withstand high winds and severe storms. Local building codes in most areas of the US have adopted these requirements, not just in the traditional coastal regions. The Architectural Series will have an option for you, as the model 904 (in certain configurations) can meet wind load requirements even is areas like Miami-Dade County Florida.

   Before making a decision between models 904, 905 and 906 for your commercial building, consider these important factors: section height, design, customization options, insulation, and local code requirements. Take the time to compare the advantages and disadvantages of each door to find the best fit for your building.