Window Security in Austin, TX

Lamination is the Best Option for More Secure Windows

If you want a safer home, laminated glass is the best glass option for enhanced window security. This is because ordinary annealed glass breaks rather easily and tempered glass, while stronger, still shatters under greater impact. However laminated glass, sometimes referred to as “lami glass”, is much more durable and harder to penetrate. The key to its strength lies in its construction. Two pieces of glass are joined by an internal layer of PVB (Polyvinyl Butyral). When the outer glass breaks, the vinyl interlayer remains intact in the window frame. Glass fragments also stick to the interlayer providing a strong barrier against forced entry. Since the glass cannot be cut from one side only, glasscutters are rendered useless.

How is Laminated Glass Manufactured?

Producing laminated glass involves several extra processing steps using high heat and pressure in a machine called a conclave. Once the glass is finished, the PVB interlayer adds tremendous strength and superior sound dampening. Lastly, when placed in a window the PVB interlayer is clear and undetectable to the naked eye.

Laminated Glass Provides Window Security and Sound Control

Laminated windows meet code for coastal hurricane resistance, but how does this apply to security for your Austin home? A good measure for residential security is that these windows can withstand multiple baseball bat impacts. This is enough impact resistance to deter intruders, but we never oversell lamination as a stop everything security solution. Lastly, please know that some clients upgrade to laminated glass simply for the sound control benefits. That’s why it’s commonly found in high-rise buildings, hotels near airports, and hospitals.

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