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

Key Takeaways

• Guardian Glass and Vitro Glass have a wide selection of high-quality window glass products designed for energy efficiency and durability.
• Guardian Glass’ SunGuard® line is acclaimed for its thermal performance and aesthetic appeal.
• Vitro Glass’ Solarban® series stands out in the market for its superior solar control and energy-saving performance.
• Window glass pricing for both brands varies based on glass type and features, with costs generally ranging from $10 to $50 per square foot.
• At Panda Windows & Doors, we pride ourselves on providing top-quality custom windows by partnering with industry-leading glass manufacturers like Guardian Glass and Vitro Glass.

Product Range

Some standout window glass product lines from Guardian Glass include:

• SunGuard®: Increases energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal for commercial buildings.
• ClimaGuard®: Enhances energy performance in residential buildings.
• InGlass®: Provides decorative glass solutions for all kinds of interior spaces.

Vitro Glass, on the other hand, sets itself apart in the window glass market with product lines such as:

• Solarban®: Provides exceptional solar control and energy performance.
• Starphire® Ultra-Clear Glass: Gives impeccable clarity to buildings that require high transparency.
• Acoustic Glass: Enhances sound insulation, creating quieter indoor environments.

Features

Design Flexibility

Guardian Glass and Vitro Glass offer window manufacturers extensive design flexibility, giving them access to versatile, high-quality glass materials for their building projects.

 For clients looking to produce visually appealing and functional interior spaces, both brands provide:

• Custom Shapes and Sizes: For unique architectural designs.
• A Variety of Tints and Coatings: For aesthetics and performance.
• Multiple Layers: For enhanced safety and insulation.

Guardian Glass and Vitro Glass also have a wide range of customization options. Guardian Glass product lines like InGlass® allow manufacturers to choose custom colors, patterns, and textures for their windows. In a similar vein, Vitro Glass provides customization options in terms of coatings and finishes, with product lines like Starphire® Ultra-Clear Glass.

ClimaGuard 80/71 from Guardian Glass’ ClimaGuard® line with 80% visible light transmittance and 0.71 solar heat gain coefficient (image courtesy of Guardian Glass).

Durability

Guardian Glass products are designed to withstand various environmental stresses. Their tempered and laminated glass options, for instance, enhance safety and performance, making them suitable for high-impact areas.

Vitro Glass also prioritizes durability. Their tempered glass is heat-treated to improve strength, while their laminated glass provides extra layers of protection against breakage.

For both brands, the durability of their window glass products guarantees long-term performance, reducing the need for frequent replacements and maintenance.

Energy Efficiency

Guardian Glass’ SunGuard® and ClimaGuard® lines are designed to provide superior solar control and thermal insulation. These products help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.

Vitro Glass’ Solarban® series is equally impressive. With its high-performance coatings, the product line significantly reduces solar heat gain for interior spaces, making it a top choice for energy-efficient buildings.

Prices

Industry prices continue to rise, impacting the overall costs of glass products. This trend has been observed across various glass manufacturers, including Guardian Glass and Vitro Glass.

The general price range for window glass products from Guardian Glass is as follows:

• Low-E Glass: $15 – $30 per square foot.
• Insulated Glass Units (IGUs): $20 – $40 per square foot.
• Tempered Glass: $25 – $45 per square foot.
• Laminated Glass: $30 – $50 per square foot.

For Vitro Glass, the general price range is:

• Solarban® Glass: $20 – $40 per square foot.
• Starphire® Ultra-Clear Glass: $25 – $45 per square foot.
• Tempered Glass: $25 – $45 per square foot.
• Laminated Glass: $30 – $50 per square foot.

Factors Affecting Window Pricing

Several factors can influence the pricing of window glass such as:

• Type of Glass: Different types of glass (e.g., low-E, tempered, laminated) have varying costs.
• Size and Thickness: Larger and thicker glass panels generally cost more.
• Coatings and Tints: Additional coatings and tints can increase the price.
• Customization: Custom shapes, sizes, and patterns may add to the cost.

If you prioritize energy efficiency, you might opt for Guardian Glass’ SunGuard® or Vitro Glass’ Solarban®, both of which offer excellent performance at comparable prices. However, if clarity and transparency are more important, Vitro Glass’ Starphire® Ultra-Clear Glass might be the better choice.

Reviews

Guardian Glass products are generally well-received by clients. Here are some common themes from their window glass product reviews:

• High Quality: Many praise the durability and performance of their products.
• Energy Efficiency: Users often highlight the energy-saving benefits of their low-E and insulated glass units.
• Customization: Clients appreciate the wide range of design and customization options available.

A former client noted, “We installed Guardian Glass’ SunGuard® in our office building, and the difference in temperature control is remarkable. Our energy bills have significantly decreased.”

Vitro Glass products also receive positive feedback. Here are some key points from reviews:

• Excellent Solar Control: Many users appreciate the superior solar control offered by the Solarban® series.
• Clarity and Aesthetics: Customers often mention the exceptional clarity and visual appeal of Starphire® Ultra-Clear Glass.
• Durability: Vitro Glass’ tempered and laminated glass options are praised for their strength and safety.

One homeowner shared, “We chose Solarban® glass for our home renovation, and it has made a huge difference in reducing heat gain. The rooms stay cooler, and the glass looks fantastic.”

Solarban® 70 glass with visible light transmittance (VLT) and solar control from Vitro Glass (image courtesy of Vitro Glass).

Choose Panda Windows & Doors for Your Custom Window Designs

At Panda Windows & Doors, we are happy to offer top-quality custom window systems. 

By partnering with leading glass manufacturers like Guardian Glass and Vitro Glass, we are able to provide clients with high-performing, energy-efficient window glass products that align with their exact vision for design and aesthetics.

Our extensive range of over 50 high-quality systems, including Folding Doors, Lift & Slides, Horizontal Wall Systems, Pivot & French Doors, Multi-Slides, and more, caters to both residential and commercial markets. With more than 70 employees and 30 regional agents throughout the United States, Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean, we are committed to delivering exceptional window solutions.

Contact us today to learn more about our custom windows and doors. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are Guardian Glass and Vitro Glass products energy efficient?

Guardian Glass and Vitro Glass both have glass products that are very energy efficient. Guardian Glass’ SunGuard® and ClimaGuard® lines, and Vitro Glass’ Solarban® series, provide excellent thermal insulation and solar control, helping to reduce energy consumption and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

What customization options do these brands offer?

Guardian Glass and Vitro Glass offer window manufacturers extensive customization options, allowing them to meet extensive design and performance needs. Guardian Glass provides custom colors, patterns, and textures through its InGlass® line, while Vitro Glass provides a wide variety of coatings and finishes, particularly in its Starphire® Ultra-Clear Glass line.

How do the costs of Guardian Glass compare to Vitro Glass?

The costs of Guardian Glass and Vitro Glass products are generally comparable, with prices ranging from $10 to $50 per square foot depending on the type and features of the glass. Factors such as size, thickness, coatings, and customization requirements can influence the final price.

What are some standout products from each brand?

Some standout products from Guardian Glass include the SunGuard® line, popular for its energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal, and the ClimaGuard® line, which enhances energy performance in residential buildings. 

For Vitro Glass, the Solarban® series is highly regarded for its superior solar control and energy performance, and the Starphire® Ultra-Clear Glass provides exceptional clarity and transparency.

How do the reviews for Guardian and Vitro Glass compare?

Reviews for Guardian Glass and Vitro Glass are generally positive, highlighting the high quality, durability, and performance of their window glass products. Guardian Glass is often praised for its energy efficiency and customization options, while Vitro Glass receives accolades for its solar control, clarity, and aesthetics. Both brands have strong reputations and are well-regarded by users.

At Panda, we’re always happy to help you find the best glass solutions for your next project – get in touch today and let’s see what we can do for you!