Glass and Glazing Contractors
238150
St. Mary's CU (MA)
Over 100 years of local and trusted banking products and services for our community.
Shoreham Bank (RI)
Shoreham Bank offers Retail Banking, Mortgages, Home Equity Loans, Auto Loans, and much more. Providing our customers with convenience and reliable service since 1959.
Paragon Bank (GA)
Franchise Times provides franchisees and franchisors with reliable information and resources for building and growing a franchise or franchise system.
iTHINK Financial CU (FL)
Highland Bank (MN)
FNBC Bank (AR)
Flagship Enterprise Center, Inc. (dba Bankable) (IN)
Bankable provides small business loans as well as access to business development tools that help Indiana small businesses to become bankable
First National Bank (SD)
FNB provides a full range of commercial banking, consumer banking and wealth management services plus industry leading online and mobile banking solutions
First Interstate Bank (MT)
Farmers State Bank (IA)
Falcon National Bank (MN)
We're real people creating stronger communities. See us at any of our bank offices in Foley or St. Cloud for help with your personal or business needs.
Community National Bank (VT)
SBA Loans for Glass and Glazing Contractors: Financing Growth in Specialty Construction
Introduction
Glass and glazing contractors install and repair glass windows, curtain walls, skylights, storefronts, and other architectural glass features for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Classified under NAICS 238150 – Glass and Glazing Contractors, this sector is critical to construction and renovation projects across the U.S. While demand for glass installation and repair continues to grow, especially in commercial construction and energy-efficient retrofits, businesses in this field face challenges such as high material costs, labor shortages, cash flow constraints, and safety compliance requirements.
This is where SBA Loans for Glass and Glazing Contractors can provide meaningful support. Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, SBA loans offer lower down payments, longer repayment terms, and government-backed guarantees. These loans help contractors purchase tools and equipment, expand crews, manage working capital, and bid on larger projects.
In this article, we’ll explore NAICS 238150, the financial challenges glazing contractors face, how SBA loans provide solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions from construction business owners.
Industry Overview: NAICS 238150
Glass and Glazing Contractors (NAICS 238150) typically provide services such as:
- Residential window installation and repair
- Commercial storefront and curtain wall systems
- Skylights and architectural glass installation
- Energy-efficient glass retrofits
- Glass partition walls and interior glazing
This industry is labor- and material-intensive, requiring specialized skills, precision, and a strong focus on safety.
Common Pain Points in Glass and Glazing Contractor Financing
Based on insights from Reddit’s r/Construction, r/Contractors, and Quora, contractors in this field often highlight:
- High Material Costs – Specialty glass, aluminum frames, and glazing systems are expensive.
- Labor Shortages – Recruiting and retaining skilled glaziers can be challenging.
- Cash Flow Gaps – Payment delays from general contractors or clients create liquidity issues.
- Safety Compliance – OSHA requirements and liability insurance raise operating costs.
- Equipment Investments – Lifts, scaffolding, cutting tools, and installation equipment are costly.
How SBA Loans Help Glass and Glazing Contractors
SBA financing provides affordable, flexible capital that allows glazing contractors to stabilize operations, expand services, and take on larger projects.
SBA 7(a) Loan
- Best for: Working capital, payroll, or supplier payments
- Loan size: Up to $5 million
- Why it helps: Ensures contractors have liquidity to cover payroll and materials while waiting for client payments
SBA 504 Loan
- Best for: Facilities, specialized equipment, or fleet expansion
- Loan size: Up to $5.5 million
- Why it helps: Ideal for investing in shop facilities, heavy equipment, or expanding operations
SBA Microloans
- Best for: Small or startup glazing contractors
- Loan size: Up to $50,000
- Why it helps: Useful for small tools, licensing, or marketing expenses
SBA Disaster Loans
- Best for: Contractors impacted by natural disasters, supply chain issues, or economic downturns
- Loan size: Up to $2 million
- Why it helps: Provides recovery funds for damaged facilities, lost income, or equipment replacement
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an SBA Loan
- Check Eligibility – Must be a U.S.-based, for-profit contracting business with good personal credit (typically 650+)
- Prepare Financial Documents – Include tax returns, P&L statements, project contracts, and equipment quotes
- Find an SBA-Approved Lender – Some lenders specialize in construction financing
- Submit Application – Provide a business plan highlighting project pipeline, safety compliance, and growth strategy
- Underwriting & Approval – SBA guarantees reduce lender risk. Approval generally takes 30–90 days
FAQ: SBA Loans for Glass and Glazing Contractors
Why do banks often deny loans to glazing contractors?
Banks may view them as risky due to payment delays, high material costs, and liability concerns. SBA guarantees reduce this risk and increase approval chances.
Can SBA loans finance lifts, scaffolding, and glass installation equipment?
Yes. SBA 7(a) and 504 loans can fund specialized tools, safety equipment, and vehicles.
What down payment is required?
SBA loans typically require 10–20% down, compared to 25–30% for conventional financing.
Are startup glazing contractors eligible?
Yes. Entrepreneurs with construction experience and signed contracts may qualify for SBA microloans or 7(a) financing.
What repayment terms are available?
- Working capital: Up to 7 years
- Equipment/facilities: Up to 10 years
- Real estate/shops: Up to 25 years
Can SBA loans support bonding and safety compliance costs?
Absolutely. Many glazing contractors use SBA loans to cover bonding, insurance, and OSHA compliance expenses.
Final Thoughts
The Glass and Glazing Contractors industry is vital to construction and energy-efficient building projects but faces financial challenges tied to materials, labor, and cash flow. SBA Loans for Glazing Contractors provide affordable, flexible financing to stabilize operations, invest in tools, and expand service capacity.
Whether you install residential windows or large commercial curtain walls, SBA financing can provide the resources your business needs. Connect with an SBA-approved lender today and explore your funding options under NAICS 238150.
Filters
Tags
#Preferred Lenders Program
#SBA Express Program
#Existing or more than 2 years old
#Startup
#Loan Funds will Open Business
#Fixed Rates Startup
#Change of Ownership
#New Business or 2 years or less
#7a General
#Variable Rates
#Fixed Rates
#Standard Asset Base Working Capital Line of Credit (CAPLine)
#International Trade Loans
#Export Express
#7a with WCP
#Contract Loan Line of Credit (CAPLine)
#7a with EWCP
#Unanswered
#Preferred Lenders with WCP
#Preferred Lenders with EWCP
#Seasonal Line of Credit (CAPLine)