Doors & Windows with Impact Resistant Glass | Cost, Pros & Cons

June 20, 2024

Key Takeaways

Impact-resistant glass is tougher than standard options and can withstand high-impact forces.
Initial costs for impact-resistant glass are higher, but it can lead to savings on energy bills and insurance premiums.
Benefits include better security, protection from extreme weather, and noise reduction.
Notable cons are the upfront costs and potential limitations in customization.
At Panda Windows & Doors, we offer a wide selection of customizable impact-resistant door and window choices.

What Are Impact Resistant Glass for Doors & Windows?

Impact-resistant glass offers your home protection against severe weather and accidental breakage and can deter break-ins – while standard glass leaves your home vulnerable.

Upgrading to impact-resistant glass in your windows and doors protects your home, gives you peace of mind, and saves you money in the long term.

The Basics of Impact-Resistant Glass Technology

Impact-resistant glass comprises two glass panes bonded with a tough interlayer, made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This sandwich-like structure is what gives it its strength, or at least prevents the glass from shattering.

In extreme situations like hurricanes, or even an attempted break-in, the resilience of your glass can make a huge difference for the safety of your family and home.

Differences Between Standard and Impact Resistant Glass

Standard glass is typically a single sheet that can easily shatter upon impact. Impact-resistant glass, on the other hand, is engineered to be tough. If it does break, it will crack rather than dangerously shatter.

Founded in 1991, Panda Windows & Doors specializes in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces. Operating from their manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, Panda has been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Their 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.

Panda is renowned for its 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, Panda Windows & Doors stands as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.

Explore Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today

Cost of Door & Window with Impact Resistant Glass

The cost of impact-resistant glass can vary, but for a standard-size window, prices can begin at a few hundred dollars and go up, depending on various factors.

Understanding Pricing: Factors That Affect Cost

The cost of impact-resistant doors and windows isn’t just about the glass. It also includes the frame, the hardware, and professional installation. Bigger sizes, premium materials, and performance extras will add to the cost.

Installation is another cost factor. Professional installation ensures your impact-resistant windows and doors perform as they should, which means additional labor costs.

Comparing Costs: Impact Resistant vs. Standard Glass

Let’s put it into perspective with a table comparing the two:

Feature	Impact Resistant Glass	Standard Glass
Cost	Higher upfront	Lower upfront
Durability	High (resists impact, reduces breakage)	Low (breaks easily)
Safety & Security	Enhanced (protects against storms and intruders)	Basic (minimal protection)
Insurance Premiums	Potentially lower (due to increased safety features)	Standard rates
Energy Efficiency	Can be higher (with proper glazing and coatings)	Varies (depends on glass type and framing)

As you can see, while the initial cost for impact-resistant glass is higher, the long-term benefits and potential savings can make it a worthwhile investment.

Girl holding American Dollar Bills.

Save money on repairs and utilities with custom-made impact-resistant glass windows and doors.

Pros of Impact-Resistant Glass for Doors & Windows

Increased Security Against Break-Ins

If someone is trying to break into your house one of the biggest factors they’ll be looking at is time – the quicker they can break your window the better.

One of the biggest benefits of impact resistant glass is that it is much harder to break than standard glass and will deter would-be burglars.

Protection from Severe Weather and Accidents

Living in an area with severe weather conditions means you may experience extreme wind and flying debris. Impact-resistant glass is designed to withstand these forces of nature and can help maintain the structural safety of your home.

Accidents can also happen, maybe a stray baseball or even a tree branch – impact-resistant glass can prevent a simple mishap resulting in shattered windows and potential injuries.

Protect your home against severe weather damage with windows and doors created with impact-resistant glass

Noise Reduction and UV Protection Benefits

Impact-resistant glass is great for noise reduction due to its laminated interlayer acting as a buffer against sound. If you live on a busy street or near an airport, you’ll understand the importance of a peaceful environment.

Another environmental benefit of impact-resistant glass is its built-in UV protection, helping to prevent the sun’s rays from fading your furniture, carpets, and curtains.

Impact on Property Value and Aesthetics

Installing impact-resistant doors and windows may also boost your property’s value. Homes with modern and stylish windows and doors that offer security and safety protection are an attractive prospect for potential buyers.

Cons of Impact Resistant Glass for Doors & Windows

Higher Upfront Investment Compared to Traditional Glass

The biggest downside to impact-resistant glass is the cost. The initial outlay is undoubtedly higher than that of traditional glass. This is due to the specialized materials and manufacturing processes required to produce glass that can stand up to extreme forces.

Potential Limitations in Style and Customization

There are many design options available for impact-resistant glass, but there may be some limitations compared to standard glass, particularly when it comes to customization. The need for robust frames and the glass itself may affect the range of styles you can choose from.

Maintenance Considerations for Homeowners

Impact-resistant glass is built to last, but it still requires maintenance. Regular cleaning and inspection are necessary to ensure the glass retains its clarity and protective properties.

Just like regular windows, the seals and frames that hold the glass in place will need occasional maintenance to ensure your home remains leak and draft-free.

Choose Panda Windows & Doors for Custom Solutions

At Panda Windows & Doors, we believe your home should be a reflection of your personal style while giving you the highest level of protection.

That’s why we specialize in creating custom doors and windows with impact-resistant glass tailored to fit your unique needs and aesthetic preferences.

Customization Options to Meet Your Design Needs

No matter what your vision is, we have the expertise to bring it to life. Our range of over 80 high-quality systems ensures that there is a perfect fit for every home.

With the ability to customize size, shape, frame material, and glass type, our team is dedicated to providing solutions that protect your home and enhance its character. We understand the importance of details in design and will work closely with you to ensure that every aspect of your custom doors and windows is perfect.

The Quality and Durability of Panda Products

Quality and durability are the cornerstones of our products at Panda Windows & Doors. We take pride in crafting systems that are visually appealing and built to withstand the toughest conditions. Our impact-resistant glass is tested rigorously to ensure it meets the highest standards of strength and resilience.

Why Choose Panda: Customer Testimonials and Case Studies

Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the satisfaction of our customers. From luxury homes to commercial spaces, our custom doors and windows have transformed living spaces and provided unparalleled protection and style. The stories of our clients speak to the trust and confidence they place in our products and services.

Panda Windows and Doors delivered everything we needed and exceeded in the time frame and budget we had in mind. It definitely gives you peace of mind while focusing and overseeing the rest of the project knowing they have you covered.

Philip Moore, Ocean Contracting

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does impact-resistant glass work in reducing noise?

Impact-resistant glass is designed with a laminated interlayer that acts as a sound barrier. This layer dampens vibrations from external noise, such as traffic or airplanes, resulting in a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment.

Can impact-resistant glass be installed in any type of window or door frame?

Impact-resistant glass can be fitted into various types of frames, including aluminum, wood, steel, stainless steel, and bronze. What matters is ensuring that the frame system is compatible with the weight and specifications of the impact-resistant glass. Our team at Panda Windows & Doors can assist with determining the best fit for your new frames.

It’s important to note that while the glass itself provides significant protection, the entire window or door system, including the frame and hardware, plays a key role in the overall impact resistance and performance.

What maintenance is required for doors and windows with impact-resistant glass?

Maintenance for impact-resistant glass is similar to that of standard glass. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water will keep the glass clear and streak-free. It’s also important to inspect the seals and hardware periodically to make sure they remain in good condition and function properly.

Are there any additional insurance benefits when using impact-resistant glass?

Many insurance companies offer reduced premiums for homes with impact-resistant windows and doors due to the increased protection they provide.

How does the cost of impact-resistant glass compare over time?

While the upfront cost of impact-resistant glass is higher than standard glass, the long-term savings can be significant. Reduced energy bills due to better insulation, potential insurance discounts, and the prevention of storm damage and theft costs all make impact-resistant glass a cost-effective choice over time.