Door & Window With Laminated Glass | Cost, Pros & Cons

July 21, 2024

Key Takeaways

Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that holds together when shattered.
Its benefits include sound reduction, UV protection, and energy efficiency.
It is also more expensive than standard glass due to its multi-layered structure and manufacturing process.
At Panda Windows & Doors, we offer custom laminated glass solutions for residential and commercial property owners.

What Is Laminated Glass?

Laminated glass is a type of glass with protective interlayers that prevent it from breaking into fragments upon impact.

To construct this type of glass, two sheets of glass are fused with a transparent, tough plastic interlayer, usually made of PVB (polyvinyl butyral) or EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate).

A diagram of how laminated glass is made.

Caption: Here’s how laminated glass is made (image courtesy of Stevenage Glass).

Cost of Door & Window with Laminated Glass

The cost of laminated glass varies, but here’s what you need to consider:

The thickness of the glass and the interlayer.
The size and shape of the pane – larger or custom shapes will cost more.
Additional features like tints, coatings, or embedded designs.

Laminated Glass Vs Standard Glass

Laminated glass is generally more expensive than standard glass due to its multi-layered structure and manufacturing process.

To give you a clearer picture:

Laminated Glass	Standard Glass
More expensive	Less expensive
Stays intact when broken, reducing injury risk	Can shatter into dangerous pieces
Provides additional benefits like UV protection and noise reduction	Offers basic functionality

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

Pros of Doors & Windows With Laminated Glass

Safety and Security Features

If your property is in an area prone to accidents or potential break-ins, the durability of laminated glass is a great asset.

In the event of extreme weather or natural disasters, like hurricanes or earthquakes, laminated glass can withstand high winds and flying debris without giving way.

Energy Efficiency

The layered structure of laminated glass provides excellent insulation, keeping your property warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

This means more energy efficiency and less reliance on heating and air conditioning — saving you more money on energy bills!

UV Protection

Laminated glass provides UV protection that prevents the fading and deterioration of your property’s furnishings — it filters out harmful UV rays, protecting your skin, furniture, curtains, and artwork.

Soundproofing

The interlayer of laminated glass acts as a damper, reducing the amount of noise that can pass through.

With its soundproofing capabilities, your home or office environment can remain serene – even if there’s traffic, construction, or loud neighbors nearby.

Laminated glass doors are popular for office meeting rooms or any space that needs sound isolation.

Cons of Door & Window with Laminated Glass

Weight

Laminated glass needs stronger framing and hardware because it’s heavier than standard glass — this makes the installation process more expensive and a lot more complicated.

At Panda Windows & Doors, we recommend working with an experienced professional who understands the specific requirements for installing laminated glass.

Maintenance

Laminated glass is not immune to wear and tear. The interlayer can become discolored over time if exposed to moisture.

To extend the life of your laminated glass windows and doors, regular maintenance is key.

Benefits-of-Steel-Windows-and-Doors

Laminated glass windows need regular inspection and maintenance — especially after exposure to moisture.

Choose Panda Windows & Doors for Custom Solutions

At Panda Windows & Doors, we offer custom glass solutions that cater to your functional needs and aesthetic preferences. Our selection of laminated glass products comes in a variety of styles, colors, and finishes.

The Panda Process

1. Design: We help you select custom doors and windows from over 80 options like laminated glass, smart home integration, etc. Tailor every detail to your needs and approve the sales order to confirm all specifications before we create detailed engineering plans.

2. Manufacturing: Our project manager ensures all components are ready, and CNC machines precisely cut and mill extrusions. Extrusions are cleaned and powder-coated for durability.

3. Quality Control: Each product undergoes rigorous inspection and testing to ensure functionality and quality. We provide photos and videos of your completed products before packaging, ensuring they meet all standards.

4. Packaging & Shipping: Products are wrapped in protective materials and placed in custom-built crates for safe transit. We ensure your order arrives intact, whether shipping domestically or internationally.

5. Delivery & Warranty: Inspect your order upon arrival and register the product to activate the limited warranty. Apply a high-quality finish to wood surfaces within 7 days to prevent damage.

6. Care & Maintenance: Follow our care and maintenance guide to keep your Panda products in top condition. Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure a lifetime of use and beauty, preserving the efficiency of laminated glass and other features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do laminated doors and windows compare to double glazing?

Laminated glass and double glazing serve similar purposes in different ways.

Double glazing involves two panes of glass with a space in between, which provides excellent insulation. Laminated glass, with its interlayer, offers insulation, safety, and soundproofing.

While both are energy efficient, laminated glass has the added benefit of holding together when broken.

Can laminated glass reduce heating and cooling costs?

Absolutely! The insulating properties of laminated glass can help maintain indoor temperatures so your heating and cooling systems don’t have to work as hard — this can lead to noticeable savings on your energy bills over time.

Is laminated glass worth the extra cost?

Laminated glass is an investment worth considering. Its high upfront cost often pays for itself through energy savings, reduced maintenance, and increased property value.

Its durability also means fewer replacements — and its security features can earn you insurance discounts.

What maintenance is required for laminated glass windows and doors?

Maintenance for laminated glass is relatively straightforward. Regular cleaning with a non-abrasive cleaner will keep your windows and doors looking clear and bright.

It’s also important to inspect the seals and edges for any signs of wear or moisture ingress — which can affect the interlayer.

With proper care, laminated glass can stay in excellent condition for many years.

How does laminated glass impact home insurance?

Many insurance companies view laminated glass as a security enhancement—and give you lower premiums for them—because laminated glass is more difficult to break through.

It’s always a good idea to speak with your insurance provider to understand how upgrading to laminated glass might affect your policy and premiums.