Drive & Shine's Illinois Road location showcases how architectural glass transforms commercial car wash design. The 26,000-square-foot facility features a climate-controlled space where customers can detail their cars year-round.
AGA's Work
AGA installed approximately 5,250 square feet of glass and aluminum systems in a distinctive patina green finish: the color of aged copper, similar to the Statue of Liberty.
Systems Installed:
- Curtain Wall: 2-1/2" x 7-1/2" Tubelite with butt-glazed vertical joints and steel-loaded members for structural support
- Exterior Storefront: 2" x 4-1/2" Tubelite, thermally broken, with custom X-pattern muntins on select units
- Interior Storefront: 1-3/4" x 4-1/2" Tubelite, center glazed
- Doors: 9 aluminum storefront doors with hardware and closers
- Glass: 1" insulated low-e units with evergreen tint on exterior; 1/4" clear on interior
Technical Highlights
The main curtain wall section required steel-loaded vertical members due to its height, adding complexity to the installation.
Butt-glazed vertical joints create clean, continuous sightlines across the glass expanse while demanding careful attention to detail from the installation crew.
The 7-week installation was completed by a crew of 2-6 members working with general contractor Witwer Construction and architect Joseph A. Dzierla & Associates, Inc.
The Result
The custom patina green finish and X-pattern muntins give the building a distinctive appearance that stands out from typical car wash construction.
The extensive glass allows natural light to flood the indoor detailing bays.
Project Details
Location: Fort Wayne, Indiana
Completion: December 2025
Glass Area: ~5,250 sq ft
Installation Time: 7 weeks
Project Team
General Contractor: Witwer Construction
Architect: Joseph A. Dzierla & Associates, Inc.
Glass & Aluminum: AGA (Architectural Glass & Aluminum)
