Choosing the Right Aluminum Equipment Screens for Commercial Properties

Building professionals know that even the most functional components of a commercial property deserve thoughtful design consideration. Aluminum equipment screens offer a clean, modern solution that protects these elements while enhancing a building’s visual appeal.

With various screen types and customizable options available, selecting the right product involves several considerations. Knowing what to look for and where can help you find the best aluminum equipment screens for your commercial properties.

Benefits of Using Aluminum Equipment Screens

Aluminum equipment screens are practical but also seamless for building design. Some of the key benefits include:

Modern aesthetic integration: They come in numerous finishes, colors and profiles, allowing architects to easily match or complement the building facade.
Durability and weather resistance: Aluminum is naturally resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for long-term exterior use.
Lightweight yet structurally strong: Despite its low weight, aluminum offers impressive strength, which reduces structural load while maintaining performance in high-wind zones.
Low maintenance: Unlike wood or steel, aluminum requires minimal upkeep. It does not rust, warp or need frequent repainting, reducing life cycle costs.

Key Considerations for Choosing Aluminum Equipment Screens for Commercial Properties

Several factors should come to mind when choosing aluminum equipment screens for commercial properties. The following are the top considerations to have during product selection:

Building codes and zoning requirements: Local municipalities often regulate height, placement, appearance and screening. Always verify that your selected screen system complies with local codes.
Wind load and structural performance: Ensure the screen system can withstand site-specific wind loads. Many manufacturers offer pre-engineered options rated for high wind or seismic zones to simplify approval.
Functionality and airflow: Screens must provide enough airflow, especially when covering HVAC units that produce a lot of heat.
Ease of installation and maintenance access: Look for systems that allow for easy installation and provide greater access to enclosed systems for future servicing.
Noise reduction goals: Solid or acoustically treated panels may be necessary to reduce noise and maintain comfort near residential zones or in mixed-use developments.

What Are the Best Places to Buy Aluminum Equipment Screens for Commercial Properties?

Company	Company Overview	Key Features
Sharchs	U.S.-based manufacturer offering customizable aluminum architectural products, known for short lead times and collaboration.	Customizable styles (solid, semi-private, louvered), fast turnaround, made in the USA.
Industrial Louvers, Inc. (ILI)	Woman-owned Minnesota company producing extruded aluminum screens with strong customization and sustainable practices.	Vertical and inverted blades, mitered corners, hinged doors, sustainable material use.
PalmSHIELD	Engineering-focused manufacturer offering fully framed, wind-rated, and decorative screening solutions.	Laser-cut and composite infill options, fully framed systems, high wind load engineering, custom designs.
CityScapes, Inc.	Innovative rooftop screen provider with a flagship system (Envisor) that avoids roof penetration and offers high wind ratings.	Non-penetrating rooftop attachment, Envisor system, up to 180 mph wind rating, multiple finishes and panel styles.

You can find the best aluminum equipment screens for commercial properties through the following companies.

1. Sharchs
Sharchs is a U.S.-based manufacturer specializing in aluminum architectural products, including screens, sunshades, canopies and trellises. Since 2011, Sharchs has provided high-quality, American-made solutions to meet the needs of architects and building professionals. Its aluminum equipment screens can conceal rooftop and ground-level mechanical systems. The systems are also customizable, offering various styles and configurations to balance concealment and ventilation needs.

In addition to its customization capabilities, Sharchs offers quick turnaround times. By manufacturing all parts domestically, it can offer shorter lead times than companies that use overseas suppliers. Plus, its team collaborates closely with clients to ensure each order meets specific project needs. This dedication to quality and service ensures you have durable, visually appealing aluminum equipment screens for commercial properties.

2. Industrial Louvers, Inc.
Industrial Louvers, Inc. (ILI) is a woman-owned manufacturer in Delano, Minnesota. It offers a wide range of aluminum equipment screens that are functional and aesthetically pleasing. It provides inverted and vertical blade configurations, catering to various design preferences and privacy requirements. Its vertical blade screens also offer sight-proof solutions, blocking views from all angles. As a result, they are ideal for areas where complete concealment is a must.

Beyond its product offerings, ILI emphasizes customization and quality. It can tailor its products with features like mitered corners for a seamless appearance. The company also offers hinged doors for easy access to enclosed equipment. With in-house manufacturing and finishing capabilities, ILI ensures consistent quality control and timely delivery.

3. PalmSHIELD
PalmSHIELD is a premier manufacturer of architectural screening solutions that can cater to project-specific needs. Many companies offer only standard models, but PalmSHIELD takes a consultative approach to meet your goals, whether for site-specific wind load calculations or local code requirements.

PalmSHIELD also has an expansive product range, including specialty infills like laser-cut designs and decorative perforated metal and composite panels. Its systems come fully framed, offering added strength and clean visual aesthetics. PalmSHIELD is best for those seeking design freedom and structural integrity, as it offers one of the most customizable and performance-focused screening options.

4. CityScapes
CityScapes distinguishes itself in the architectural screening industry with its innovative approach to rooftop equipment concealment. Its flagship product is the Envisor rooftop screen system. It can attach directly to rooftop units without penetrating the roof membrane, preserving structural integrity and simplifying installation. This feature is particularly beneficial for retrofit projects, where rooftop penetration is a concern.

The Envisory system can withstand speeds up to 180 mph, so it is durable enough to withstand various environmental conditions. CityScapes offers many panel styles and finishes, too. Therefore, architects can select options that complement the building’s design.

Selecting the Best Aluminum Equipment Screens for Commercial Properties

Choosing the right aluminum equipment screens for a commercial property involves several key factors and considerations. Your choice also depends on your project needs, but the top manufacturer will be one that can offer a balance between performance, compliance and design integrity. Fortunately, these companies offer plenty of customizable options, so you can be sure to select a system that supports your design goals.