What Every Property Owner Should Know About High-Performance Security Glass

Want to keep your property safe from break-ins?

Most homeowners don't think about windows until after they've become an issue. Regular glass is one of the simplest ways for a burglar to enter your home in seconds. And the statistics don't lie...

The best news? Forced entry resistant windows have evolved significantly. Today's advanced security glass can halt intruders in their tracks and keep your family, valuables and property safe from harm.

Here is everything you need to know.

Why Standard Windows Aren't Enough

Here's the harsh truth...

Windows are typically the weakest link in your home's defense. With a hammer (or rock) in hand, an intruder can break through ordinary glass in minutes and gain access to your home. And it happens quite frequently.

FBI stats show that 55.7% of break-ins force entry, and most of those begin at the window.

Think about it:

A robber approaches a home. They spot a window with normal glass in it. They realize it takes one swing of a hammer to break in. There's nothing stopping them from doing that. Scary thought, huh?

It's for this reason that property owners are flocking to modern bullet-proof windows for homes these days. Designed to endure multiple blows from hammers, pry bars, baseball bats and gunfire, these forced entry resistant windows are just like standard glass but with one exception.

The financial impact of a break-in is also significant. According to 2024 FBI data, the average residential burglary loss is now between $4,368 - $4,986. That doesn't just include stolen belongings... it takes into account property damage from forced entry as well.

How Forced Entry Resistant Windows Actually Work

Now for the technical stuff (don't worry, it's kept simple).

Bullet resistant windows are made with laminated glass. Laminated glass is when several sheets of glass are laminated between layers of strong plastic. When impacted, the glass will crack, but it will not break into separate pieces as regular glass does.

Here's why that matters:

• Intruders can't punch through the window
• The glass holds together even after multiple hits
• It buys you valuable time to call for help
• The noise of breaking attempts alerts everyone to danger

The highest quality security glass available will resist prolonged attacks for minutes. The majority of intruders will move on after 60 seconds of failing to gain entry.

That's a big deal because most burglaries take only 8-10 minutes. If your windows can last half of that time, the burglar will be compelled to leave and find an easier target.

The Top Benefits Of High-Performance Security Glass

Why High-Performance Security Glass Is Worth The Investment

You've probably seen High-Performance security glass during your travels. It's commonly used in high-profile places like banks, government buildings, and stores. So why should you invest in high-performance security glass for your property? Here are the main benefits...

Protection Against Forced Entry

This is the obvious one.

Force entry resistant windows are made to prevent burglars. So even if they grab a hammer to your window, it will not shatter. They will be left standing there as the alarm sounds and police head their way.

That's some serious peace of mind!

Protection From Severe Weather

Here's a bonus benefit most people don't think about...

Security glass is designed to be impact resistant. This means debris won't penetrate through your windows during hurricanes, storms or tornadoes. Regular glass will break when struck with flying debris, causing tremendous damage inside your home. Security glass prevents everything from staying outside.

Reduced Noise Levels

Living next to a busy road or in a noisy area?

Laminated security glass inherently provides sound dampening due to it being thicker and having a plastic interlayer. You will experience significant reduction in exterior noise once installed.

UV Protection

Ordinary security glass filters out as much as 99% of UV radiation. This prevents furniture, floors, paintings and drapes from fading. UV filtering security glass can also protect your skin from sunburn while you're inside by a window.

Energy Efficiency

The additional layers within security glass also enhance thermal insulation. Your home will heat up faster during winter and stay cooler during summer. Translation: lower energy bills each month.

What To Look For When Choosing Security Glass

When shopping for security glass, it's important to know that not all glass is created equal. Here are some key features to look for.

Look For Tested Ratings

Here are the certifications you should look for when purchasing tested windows offering the highest level of forced entry resistance. Note: these windows have been tested by third party organisations.

• ASTM F1233 - Tests for halting forced entry
• UL 972 - Burglary resistant guidelines
• ANSI Z97.1 - Safety standards
• Hurricane impact ratings - For storm protection

If there are no ratings like this, walk away. You're wasting your money if the glass hasn't been adequately tested by professionals.

Choose The Right Glass Thickness

Thicker isn't always better, but it does matter.

1/4 inch glass with a strong interlayer is suitable for minimal security. Thicker glass with multiple interlayers is recommended for increased security (ground floor windows, commercial).

Don't Forget The Frame

Here's the part most people miss...

Installing security glass in a frame that isn't designed to hold it will negate its strength. The frame should be equally resistant to forced entry, to support the glass while an attack is taking place. Check for reinforced aluminium, steel or composite frames designed specifically for this purpose.

Work With A Trusted Installer

Installation is everything. Incorrect installation will cause security glass to perform far below its intended strength. Ensure that your installer has experience with forced entry windows.