Cardinal Glass Industries vs Tristar Glass | Prices & Reviews for Window Glass

October 1, 2024

Key Takeaways

Cardinal Glass Industries offers window manufacturers a wide selection of glass options, including float, insulating, tempered, laminated, and coated glass.
Tristar Glass specializes in custom-fabricated glass solutions with advanced thermal and solar performance.
Cardinal Glass Industries is popular for its energy-efficient window glass with sound reduction, and UV protection.
Tristar Glass offers clients competitive pricing and value-added services.
At Panda Windows & Doors, we partner with glass manufacturers like Cardinal Glass Industries and Tristar Glass to find the optimal window solutions for residential and commercial properties.

Product Range

Cardinal Glass Industries’ extensive range of window glass products include:

Float Glass
Insulating Glass
Tempered Glass
Laminated Glass
Coated Glass

Tristar Glass, on the other hand, focuses on custom-fabricated glass solutions. They incorporate advanced glass technologies into their products for better thermal and solar performance. Their offerings include:

Insulated Glass Units (IGUs)
Low-E Coated Glass
Tempered and Laminated Glass
Specialty Glass Products

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

Features

Design Flexibility and Customization

One of the key strengths of Cardinal Glass Industries is its design flexibility and customization options – for instance, their IGUs (insulating glass units) can be customized with different spacers, gas fills, and coatings to achieve the desired thermal performance.

Tristar Glass also provides a high degree of design flexibility and customization – from custom shapes and sizes to specialized coatings and finishes, their ability to incorporate advanced glass technologies into their products means they have impeccable range and versatility.

Material Quality and Durability

Cardinal Glass Industries’ glass products are manufactured using high-quality materials and advanced production techniques, resulting in long-lasting performance and reliability.

One example of this is their tempered glass, which undergoes a heat treatment process to increase its strength and durability; this type of glass is particularly useful for locations that require tighter security.

Similarly, Tristar Glass is recognized for its high-quality materials and durable products. Their window glass undergoes rigorous testing and quality control measures to meet high performance standards.

Their laminated glass, for instance, is designed to withstand impact and resist shattering, providing enhanced safety and security.

Energy Efficiency

Cardinal Glass Industries and Tristar Glass both excel with energy-efficient window glass products.

Cardinal Glass Industries’ low-E glass like the LoĒ³-366® or LoĒ²-270 have a special coating that reflects infrared light, keeping heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer, and reducing the need for air conditioning and heating.

For Tristar Glass, their IGUs (insulated glass units) are constructed with advanced spacers and gas fills to minimize heat transfer and enhance energy efficiency.

Cardinal Glass Industries’ energy-efficient LoĒ³-366® glass (image courtesy of Cardinal Glass Industries).

Prices

Cardinal Glass Industries offers competitive rates for their high-quality products. The cost of their window glass varies depending on the type and features selected. On average, you can expect to pay:

$5-$15 per square foot for standard float glass
$15-$30 per square foot for Low-E coated glass
$20-$40 per square foot for IGUs (Insulated Glass Units)

Tristar Glass also offers competitive pricing for their custom fabricated glass solutions. On average, you can expect to pay:

$5-$12 per square foot for standard glass
$12-$28 per square foot for Low-E coated glass
$18-$35 per square foot for IGUs (Insulated Glass Units)

The above prices are estimates that can change depending on the required window glass solution.

Factors Affecting the Pricing

Type of Glass: Standard float glass is generally less expensive than low-E coated or insulated glass units.
Customization: Custom shapes, sizes, and finishes can increase the overall cost.
Quantity: Larger orders may qualify for bulk discounts, reducing the per-unit cost.

Reviews

Cardinal Glass Industries has received generally positive reviews for their high-quality products and excellent customer support. Many customers appreciate the energy efficiency and durability of their glass products. A client in Las Vegas said,

“We installed Cardinal’s low-E glass in our property, and the difference in our energy bills has been remarkable. The glass looks great and performs even better.”

Tristar Glass also receives positive reviews for their custom fabricated glass solutions. Customers often highlight the quality and performance of their products, and their excellent customer service. A client based out of Austin, TX said,

“Tristar Glass’s IGUs have made a significant difference in our property’s comfort and energy efficiency. Their customer service was top-quality, helping us choose the best options for our needs.”

Some customers have noted challenges with the customization process, particularly for projects that require unique shapes and sizes. Ensuring clear communication with Tristar Glass’s support team can help mitigate these issues.

Laminated glass windows by Tristar Glass for the Oklahoma Heart Institute (image courtesy of Yellow Pages).

Choose Panda Windows & Doors for Your Custom Window Designs

At Panda Windows & Doors, we strive to be your go-to source for custom window designs. We partner with glass manufacturers like Cardinal Glass Industries and Tristar Glass to find the optimal window solutions for residential and commercial markets.

With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we offer a wide range of high-quality systems, including Folding Doors, Lift & Slides, Horizontal Wall Systems, Pivot & French Doors, Multi-Slides, Retractable Screens, and Architectural Windows.

Our Voyage Select Pivot door line has won the Most Innovative Entry Door at the 2022 Window + Door Awards, and our TS.X0 line won the title Most Innovative Patio, Multi-Slide, or Multi-Panel Door System from The Window + Door Magazine in 2019. With a strong presence throughout the United States, Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean, we are committed to delivering exceptional quality and service to our customers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What Are the Key Features of Cardinal Glass Industries’ Window Glass Products?

Cardinal Glass Industries’ window glass products are popular for their energy efficiency, durability, and design flexibility. They also have a variety of coatings and finishes to meet exact project requirements.

How Does Tristar Glass Stand Out in the Window Glass Market?

Tristar Glass stands out in the market with its custom fabricated glass solutions and advanced thermal and solar performance. Their products include insulated glass units (IGUs), low-E coated glass, and specialty glass products. Tristar Glass’s focus on customization and high-quality materials makes them a valuable partner for projects requiring unique shapes, sizes, and finishes.

What is the Cost Comparison Between Cardinal Glass Industries and Tristar Glass?

Cardinal Glass Industries and Tristar Glass both offer clients competitive pricing for their high-quality products. On average, Cardinal Glass Industries products range from $5-$40 per square foot, depending on the type and features selected. Tristar Glass products range from $5-$35 per square foot, with costs varying based on customization and specific features.

Are There Any Specific Glass Types That Favor One Manufacturer Over the Other?

If energy efficiency is a top priority, Cardinal Glass Industries’ Low-E glass and IGUs may be the best choice. If customization and advanced thermal performance are required, Tristar Glass’s custom fabricated solutions may be more suitable.

How Do The Reviews Compare for Cardinal Glass Industries and Tristar Glass?

Reviews for Cardinal Glass Industries and Tristar Glass are generally positive, highlighting the quality and performance of their products.

Cardinal Glass Industries receives praise for its energy-efficient solutions and durability, while Tristar Glass is appreciated for its customization options and excellent customer service. However, some customers have reported issues with delivery times and customization processes. It’s essential to communicate clearly with the glass manufacturers to create a smooth experience.