Vitro Glass vs Viracon Glass | Prices & Reviews for Window Glass

October 18, 2024

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Key Takeaways

Vitro Glass offers a variety of glass types including Low-E, low-iron, reflective, and tinted glasses.
Viracon Glass specializes in architectural glass solutions, providing high-performance coatings and laminated glass options.
Vitro Glass is known for its energy-efficient features such as solar control and passive low-e glass.
Viracon Glass is acclaimed for its durability and aesthetic appeal, often used in commercial buildings.
Panda Windows & Doors can integrate both Vitro and Viracon glass into custom window and door systems.

Product Range

Different Types of Glass Offered by Vitro Glass and Viracon Glass

Vitro Glass provides an extensive selection of glass products:

Low-E Glass: This type of glass is designed to reduce energy loss by reflecting heat.
Low-Iron Glass: Known for its clarity and transparency, making it ideal for applications requiring high visual quality.
Reflective Glass: Provides solar control by reflecting sunlight, which helps in reducing cooling costs.
Tinted Glass: Adds a layer of color to the glass, enhancing aesthetic appeal and reducing glare.

Viracon Glass specializes in high-performance architectural glass solutions:

High-Performance Coatings: These coatings improve energy efficiency and provide solar control.
Laminated Glass: Offers enhanced safety and security by holding together when shattered.
Insulating Glass Units (IGUs): Designed to improve thermal performance by reducing heat transfer.

Ideal Uses for Each Glass Type in Windows and Doors

Different types of glass are suited for various applications. Knowing where each type excels can help you choose the best option for your needs.

Vitro Glass

Low-E Glass: Ideal for residential windows and doors where energy efficiency is a priority.
Low-Iron Glass: Perfect for storefronts and display windows requiring high clarity.
Reflective Glass: Best suited for office buildings and commercial spaces where solar control is necessary.
Tinted Glass: Great for areas needing both aesthetic enhancement and glare reduction, such as sunrooms and skylights.

Viracon Glass

High-Performance Coatings: Suitable for large commercial buildings requiring energy efficiency and solar control.
Laminated Glass: Ideal for safety-critical applications such as schools, hospitals, and high-rise buildings.
Insulating Glass Units (IGUs): Perfect for both residential and commercial applications where thermal performance is crucial.

Founded in 1991, Panda Windows & Doors specializes in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces through Panda Windows & Doors. Operating from our manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Our extensive product lineup includes over 80 high-end offerings, such as pivot doors, French doors, folding doors, lift & slides, multi-slides, horizontal sliding walls, and operable windows. These systems are available in materials like aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, solid wood, and aluminum-wood clad.

We are renowned for our award-winning designs, engineering solutions, and fast lead times, delivering in just 6-10 weeks to customers throughout the U.S. and Caribbean. Trusted by leading architectural firms and glaziers nationwide, we stand as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.

Explore Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today

Energy Efficiency

Vitro Glass incorporates several features to boost energy efficiency. Their low-e glass is particularly effective at reducing energy loss, making it a popular choice for residential windows and doors. Additionally, their reflective glass helps in minimizing cooling costs by reflecting sunlight.

Viracon Glass, on the other hand, excels in providing high-performance coatings that enhance energy efficiency. These coatings are designed to reflect heat and reduce the need for air conditioning in commercial buildings. Their insulating glass units (IGUs) are also highly effective at improving thermal performance by reducing heat transfer.

Bespoke glass walls and windows for cleverly dividing office space without surrendering light or space.

Stay cool inside your home or office with our range of glazing options for bespoke windows and doors.

Pricing and Costs

Cost Range for Products from Vitro Glass

Vitro Glass products typically fall within a moderate price range. For example, their low-e glass can cost anywhere from $10 to $20 per square foot. Reflective and tinted glasses are usually priced between $15 and $30 per square foot, depending on the specific type and additional features.

Cost Range for Products from Viracon Glass

Viracon Glass products are generally more expensive due to their specialized applications and high-performance features – their high-performance coatings can range from $25 to $50 per square foot. Laminated glass, known for its safety features, can cost between $30 and $60 per square foot.

Factors Affecting the Pricing

Material Quality

Higher-quality materials naturally command higher prices. For example, low-iron glass, known for its clarity, is more expensive than standard glass due to the additional processing required to remove iron content.

Manufacturing Process

The complexity of the manufacturing process also impacts costs. Advanced coatings and treatments that enhance energy efficiency or safety features add to the overall price. For instance, the process of adding a low-e coating to glass involves multiple steps and specialized equipment, contributing to higher costs.

Product Reviews

Reviews for Vitro Glass

Vitro Glass has received positive feedback for its range of products and their performance.

Durability and Longevity

Vitro Glass is known for its durability. Customers have noted that their glass products withstand harsh weather conditions without compromising performance. The longevity of Vitro Glass products is often highlighted in reviews, with many users reporting that their windows and doors remain in excellent condition for years.

“We’ve had Vitro low-e glass windows installed for over five years now, and they still look as good as new. The energy savings have been significant, and the clarity is unmatched.” – Homeowner in Arizona

Feedback on Aesthetic Appeal

The aesthetic appeal of Vitro Glass products is another strong point. Architects and designers frequently commend the visual quality and range of options available. Tinted and reflective glasses from Vitro add a modern and sophisticated look to buildings, making them a popular choice for commercial projects.

Reviews for Viracon Glass

Viracon Glass also garners positive reviews, particularly for its high-performance and safety features.

Durability and Longevity

Viracon Glass is celebrated for its durability. The laminated glass, in particular, is noted for its ability to withstand impact and resist shattering. This makes it a preferred choice for buildings requiring enhanced security and safety.

“We chose Viracon laminated glass for our office building, and it has been a great decision. The glass not only looks great but also offers the security we need.” – Building Manager in New York

Feedback on Aesthetic Appeal

The aesthetic appeal of Viracon Glass is frequently mentioned in reviews.

Their high-performance coatings and laminated glass options provide a sleek and modern look, making them a popular choice for contemporary architectural designs. Customers appreciate the wide range of customization options available, allowing them to achieve the desired look for their projects.

Choose Panda Windows & Doors for Your Bespoke Designs

When it comes to integrating high-quality glass into your windows and doors, Panda Windows & Doors stands out as a top choice. Our custom designs and innovative solutions mean that you get the best of both worlds – functionality and aesthetics.

At Panda, we offer a wide range of customizable options to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for folding doors, lift & slides, or multi-slide systems, we have the perfect solution for you. Our products are designed to seamlessly integrate with both Vitro and Viracon glass, ensuring that you get the highest quality and performance.

Our commitment to quality and innovation has earned us numerous accolades, including the Most Innovative Entry Door at the 2022 Window + Door Awards and the Most Innovative Patio, Multi-Slide, or Multi-Panel Door System from The Window + Door Magazine in 2019. With over 30 years of experience and a global presence, Panda Windows & Doors is the trusted choice for enhancing your home’s aesthetics and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does glass enhance my home security?

Both Vitro and Viracon offer glass options that enhance home security.

Laminated glass, for example, is designed to hold together when shattered, providing an extra layer of protection.

This makes it difficult for intruders to break through the glass.

Does each glass brand offer customization?

Yes, both Vitro and Viracon offer a wide range of customization options. You can choose from different types of glass, coatings, and tints to meet your specific needs and preferences. Panda Windows & Doors can help you integrate these customized glass options into your window and door systems.

What are the most popular products from each brand?

For Vitro Glass, the most popular products include their low-e glass and low-iron glass, known for their energy efficiency and clarity. Viracon’s high-performance coatings and laminated glass are highly sought after for their durability and safety features.

Can I install Panda products myself?

While some DIY enthusiasts may feel confident in installing window and door systems, we recommend professional installation for Panda Windows & Doors products.

Our systems are designed with precision and require expert handling for optimal performance and longevity.