What Are the Best Types of Security Glass for Commercial Buildings?

Modern commercial buildings and their occupants face a wide range of potential security threats, and traditional commercial security systems don’t address them all.

Sure, alarms and surveillance systems can deter forced entry and burglary, but they don’t physically prevent brazen smash-and-grab theft or protect glass storefronts against rioting and looting.

If businesses and commercial facilities are to protect against the varied security threats out there, they must have some sort of physical, “always-there” glass protection in place to reinforce their most vulnerable doors and windows — this is where different types of security glass come in.

While not all security glass is a one-size-fits all solution, many types of security glazing can provide a high level of physical protection against some of the most common threats to commercial security, including: 

• Forced entry
• Burglary
• Smash-and-grab theft
• Vandalism
• Rioting and looting
• Active threats
• Storm damage
• Natural disasters
• Blast damage

Types of Security Glass:

Laminated Security Glass:

• Composed of multiple layers, it offers enhanced strength and stiffness compared to regular laminated glass.
• Provides protection against forced entry and burglary, with thicker variants offering ballistic protection.
• Prone to spalling and breakage after repeated impacts.

Non-Glass Security Glazing:

• Crafted from robust materials like polycarbonates and acrylics, often with abrasion-resistant coatings.
• Virtually unbreakable, making it ideal for mitigating forced entry.
• Available in containment-grade and ballistic-grade varieties, ensuring continued strength even under attack.

Hybrid Laminates:

• Combines the benefits of security glass and plastics.
• Example: Glass-clad polycarbonate security glazing, offering high levels of ballistic protection.

Tempered Glass Clarification:

• Contrary to common belief, tempered glass isn't a security glass type but rather a safety glass.
• Although stronger than standard glass, it breaks in a way that facilitates intruder access.
• Hence, it's crucial for businesses to invest in true security glass to reinforce their premises.

What’s the Best Type of Security Glass for Commercial Windows and Doors?

The choice of security glass for commercial buildings depends on specific security needs and budget considerations.

For instance, retailers may be most concerned with protecting their businesses against burglary, smash-and-grab theft, and rioting and looting, in which case something like containment-grade, polycarbonate-based ArmorPlast® provides an ideal solution.

On the other hand, other types of commercial buildings, such as schools and government buildings, may be more at risk for active threat scenarios, so ballistic-grade glass-clad polycarbonate Riot Glass® might be the best type of security glass for those applications.

Certain types of facilities, like high-security government facilities, often have to meet very rigorous security requirements, especially when it comes to glass doors and entryways.

For these situations, a complete unbreakable door conversion kit (consisting of bullet-resistant security glass and forced entry-resistant framing) may be just what’s required.

Ultimately, the best type of security glazing for your unique requirements is best determined through a professional threat assessment.

Riot Glass Solutions:

Riot Glass, LLC offers a comprehensive range of security glazing solutions. Options include laminated glass, polycarbonate-based, and glass-clad polycarbonate, all designed to outperform competitors.

Retrofitting options are available, allowing installation over existing glass or as part of new construction. It is suitable for various commercial settings including retail, schools, government buildings, and healthcare facilities.

We offer customized consultations and threat assessments to ensure tailored solutions for every need and budget.

In conclusion, investing in the right security glass is essential for safeguarding commercial buildings against diverse threats. Contact Riot Glass, LLC today for expert advice and tailored solutions to enhance your premises' security.