Key Takeaways
- Impact-resistant glass is designed to withstand severe weather conditions and high-velocity impacts.
- Regular glass is cost-effective but lacks the strength and safety features of impact-resistant glass.
- Impact-resistant glass offers enhanced security, energy efficiency, and noise reduction.
- Regular glass is more prone to shattering and is best suited for low-risk areas.
- At Panda Windows & Doors we’re always ready to discuss the best option for your needs.
What is Impact Resistant Glass?
Impact-resistant glass (sometimes called hurricane glass or storm glass) is specifically designed to withstand hurricane-force winds and other extreme weather events without buckling. This type of glass can endure high-velocity impacts from flying debris and still remain intact.
Construction and Materials
Impact-resistant glass consists of two layers of tempered or laminated glass, with a strong interlayer ( made of polyvinyl butyral - PVB - or ethylene-vinyl acetate - EVA) in between the panes of glass to reinforce and hold them together even if they shatter.
The interlayer is the component that gives impact-resistant glass its characteristic strength and durability.
Structurally, impact-resistant glass comprises:
- Two toughened glass panes
- A strong polymer layer
- Heavy-duty frames designed specifically to withstand extreme weather
How it works
The primary function of impact-resistant glass is to maintain its integrity when hit by objects moving at high speeds - and this is achieved through the combination of its layered construction and the resilient interlayer.
In the event of a strong impact, the glass may fracture, but the interlayer keeps the fragments in place, significantly reducing the risk of injury and property damage. Unlike regular glass, which when exposed to the same severe condition will shatter into sharp, dangerous shards.
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 8-12 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.
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Advantages and Disadvantages of Impact-Resistant Glass
Cracked impact-resistant glass keeps fragments in place after impact. (Image courtesy of rawpixel)
Advantages
- Impact-resistant glass reduces the risk of injury by preventing windows from shattering into dangerous shards.
- This glass is strong enough to withstand attempts at forced entry, thus providing an added layer of protection against intruders.
- The multi-layered construction of impact-resistant glass offers better insulation, helping to reduce energy costs.
- The dense interlayer in impact-resistant glass helps to dampen outside noise, creating a quieter indoor space.
Potential Drawbacks
- Impact-resistant glass is more expensive than regular glass due to its specialized construction and materials.
- The added layers and interlayers make impact-resistant glass heavier, meaning they require stronger frames and additional support.
Regular Glass: Overview
Regular glass is the most commonly used glass type in windows and doors. It is a single glass pane, easy to manufacture, and fairly cheap.
While it serves its purpose in many applications, it lacks the strength and safety features of impact-resistant glass.
Construction and Materials
Regular glass, also known as annealed glass, is produced through a process of slowly cooling molten glass to relieve internal stresses. This method, called annealing, results in a clear and smooth surface that is widely used in various applications.
Unlike impact-resistant glass, regular glass consists of a single layer. This simplicity makes it easier and cheaper to manufacture - but the single-layer construction also means that regular glass is prone to breaking under force.
How it Works
Sharp glass shards pose a risk of injury.
When regular glass is hit, it shatters into sharp, jagged pieces, many of them tiny. This poses a significant safety risk, especially in areas prone to severe weather conditions or high-traffic zones. Despite this, regular glass is commonly used because it meets basic requirements for transparency and insulation.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Regular Glass
Advantages
- Regular glass is generally cheaper to produce and install compared to impact-resistant glass.
- Due to its simpler construction, regular glass is easier to handle and install.
- Regular glass provides excellent clarity, making it ideal for windows and doors where a clear view is desired.
Limitations
- Regular glass shatters into sharp fragments, posing a risk of injury.
- It lacks the strength to withstand high-velocity impacts or severe weather conditions.
- Regular glass is easier to break, making it less secure against forced entry attempts.
Impact-Resistant Glass vs Regular Glass
Security & Safety
In terms of security and safety, impact-resistant glass has a clear advantage over regular glass. The multi-layered construction of the glass ensures that even if the outer layer breaks, the interlayer holds the pieces together, preventing dangerous shards from scattering. This feature significantly reduces the risk of injury and enhances the overall safety of your home or business.
On the other hand, regular glass shatters into sharp, dangerous fragments upon impact, posing a risk of injury and also making it easier for intruders to gain access to your property.
Therefore, if safety and security are top priorities, impact-resistant glass is the better choice
Energy Efficiency
Both impact-resistant glass and regular glass contribute to the energy efficiency of a building, but impact-resistant glass offers superior insulation.
The multiple layers and the interlayer in impact-resistant glass help to reduce heat transfer, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Regular glass, while providing basic insulation, does not offer the same level of energy efficiency as impact-resistant glass.
Cost Considerations
While impact-resistant glass is more expensive due to its specialized construction and materials, its long-term benefits, such as enhanced safety, security, and energy efficiency, can outweigh the initial investment.
Regular glass, on the other hand, is a more affordable option and easier to install. If budget constraints are a primary concern and the risk of severe weather or forced entry is low, regular glass is the better choice.
Aesthetics and Practical Considerations
Aesthetically, both impact-resistant glass and regular glass offer clear views and can be used in various architectural styles.
The added layers in impact-resistant glass can sometimes result in a slightly thicker appearance - though, this difference is often negligible and does not significantly impact the overall look of your windows and doors.
From a practical standpoint, impact-resistant glass requires stronger window frames and additional support due to its weight. Regular glass, being lighter, is easier to handle and install. Therefore, consider the structural requirements of your building when making a decision.
Clear glass panes add beauty and sophistication to doors (Image courtesy of freepik)
Ideal Uses for Each Glass Type
Residential Applications
If you live in a hurricane-prone area or region with a high risk of severe weather, impact-resistant glass is the ideal choice. It provides the necessary protection against flying debris and high winds, ensuring the safety and security of your home and its occupants.
In contrast, regular glass can be a suitable option if you live in low-risk areas where severe weather is rare. It offers the benefits of affordability and ease of installation, making it a practical choice for standard residential applications.
Commercial Applications
In commercial settings, impact-resistant glass is often preferred for its enhanced safety and security features. Businesses located in high-risk areas or those requiring added protection, such as banks or jewelry stores, can benefit from the strength and durability of impact-resistant glass.
Regular glass, while less robust, can still be used in commercial applications where the risk of impact or forced entry is low, for example, in office buildings or retail stores in safe neighborhoods.
Table comparing both glass terms.
Making the Right Choice with Panda Windows & Doors
At Panda Windows & Doors, we understand that selecting the right glass for your home or business is not the most difficult decision to make.
Our extensive range of high-quality glass systems, including impact-resistant glass, ensures that you can find the perfect solution to meet your specific needs.
With over 30 years of experience in designing and engineering state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems, we are committed to providing you with the best products and services. Our team of experts is here to guide you through the selection process, helping you make an informed decision that enhances the safety, security, and energy efficiency of your property.
Contact us today to learn more about our products and how we can help you achieve your home improvement goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost difference between impact-resistant glass and regular glass?
The cost of impact-resistant glass is generally higher than regular glass due to its specialized construction and materials.
On average, impact-resistant glass can cost between $30 to $70 per square foot, while regular glass typically costs between $5 to $20 per square foot.
Note that the actual prices will vary based on your needs.
Can impact-resistant glass be used in any type of window or door?
Yes, impact-resistant glass can be used in various types of windows and doors, including sliding doors, French doors, and fixed windows. However, due to its weight and thickness, it may require stronger frames and additional support.
How does impact-resistant glass improve energy efficiency?
Impact-resistant glass improves energy efficiency through its multi-layered construction and interlayer, which provide better insulation. In areas with extreme temperatures, the superior insulation of impact-resistant glass can lead to significant energy savings over time.
Is impact-resistant glass completely shatterproof?
No, impact-resistant glass is not completely shatterproof, but it is designed to hold together when broken. If the glass is struck with enough force, it may crack or shatter, but the interlayer between the panes will keep the fragments in place.
How does impact-resistant glass affect noise levels in a home or business?
Impact-resistant glass can significantly reduce noise levels due to its multi-layered construction and the presence of a strong interlayer.
