Understanding your Bulletproof “Glass” Options

When it comes to working with bulletproof glass, there are a few different “glass” options available– some of which aren’t even made of glass – and it can be confusing to know which material best suits your application. If you’re an architect or designer working with the material for the first time, Total Security Solutions offers several resources to help you understand the benefits of each type of bulletproof glass. We are also available for a free design consultation or to review your design specs to ensure you have selected the appropriate level of resistance and properly identified all necessary bulletproof components.

Brief Overview of Bulletproof “Glass” Options

Bullet-Resistant Cast Acrylic: The most commonly used material for bulletproof transaction windows and ballistic glass, bullet proof acrylic is available in UL ballistic protection levels one and two. It is offered uncoated or with an abrasion resistant coating which increases durability against solvents, weather, and ultraviolet light. 
– Used mostly indoors
– Available in UL Levels 1 and 2
– Weighs 7.7lb per sq ft
View detailed product information and a video overview of bullet-resistant cast acrylic. 

Bullet-Resistant Polycarbonate Security Glass: Standard with an abrasion resistant coating to protect against cleaning solvents and weather, as well as an increased resistance to the effects of ultra violet light, bullet-resistant laminated polycarbonate security glass is typically lighter than other materials. It is available in UL levels 1-3.
– Provides excellent optical clarity
– Great for exterior use
– Available in UL Levels 1-3
– Weighs 4.6lb per sq ft
View detailed product information of bullet-resistant polycarbonate security glass. 

Ballistic Glass-Clad Polycarbonate (GCP): Comprised of laminated glass and polycarbonate, bulletproof glass-clad polycarbonate can be manufactured to achieve UL levels 1-8. It is the preferred product for exterior windows because it holds up to high-traffic areas, weathers excellently and carries ratings for forced entry, explosive blasts, and hurricane winds. Available with clear or tinted ballistic glass.
– Great for exterior use
– Thick layers make the highest-rated levels of bullet resistance obtainable
– Weighs 8.9lb per sq ft
View detailed product information and a video overview of bulletproof glass-clad polycarbonate.

Selecting the right bulletproof glass material for your facility needs may feel overwhelming, but we can help. Answering a few key security questions will enable us determine what level of security glass is required and whether bulletproof acrylic, polycarbonate or glass-clad polycarbonate is best. We are here to help so give us a call – 1.800.513.1468.

Next Steps

  • Visit our Architect Resource Center for Specs, CAD drawings, and more items designed to make your job easier
  • Already have specs drawn out? We’ll review them for you for free!
  • Check out our blog for more great articles about bulletproof glass

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