Using Shatterproof Glass at Home for Safety and Security

The Door Centre • August 11, 2014

Shatterproof Glass for Safety and Security

Shatterproof glass doorsAs construction technology continues to evolve and improve, better products become available for homeowners and builders. Shatterproof glass used to be a specialty item, only for particular purposes and rarely used in the average home. Now, the variety of glass types available for windows and doors allows homeowners to improve energy efficiency, reduce UV radiation, and increase both safety and security. Shatterproof glass is one choice that can do all of these things.

What is Shatterproof Glass?

Shatterproof glass is laminated glass; two or more sheets of glass bound together with an invisible interlayer of polyvinyl or resin, though other compounds are sometimes used. If broken, instead of breaking into sharp, jagged pieces, the glass cracks like a spider web, but doesn’t actually break through. Automobile windows and sliding glass doors are made with shatterproof glass, but there are benefits to choosing it for all of the doors and windows in your home.

Shatterproof Glass for Safety

shatterproof glass doorsThough glass is durable and strong, accidents can happen. Odds are typically against stray baseballs or golf balls hitting one of your windows , but damage can also occur during extreme weather events. Thunderstorms and heavy winds have the potential to blow lawn furniture across decks or send tree limbs crashing into windows. Severe hailstorms can also cause damage.

Aside from personal injury, flying glass can damage furniture, drapes, carpets and floors. With shatterproof glass, even if it does break, you won’t have dangerous pieces of sharp glass scattered around. Both cleanup and repair are safer if you don’t have to worry about being cut by glass.

Shatterproof Glass for Security

When glass pieces hold together instead of shattering, a much stronger barrier is created. It becomes much more difficult and takes longer to get through a window or door. Burglars are likely to leave in search of an easier target, particularly if your shatterproof glass is coupled with an alarm system. Once the alarm is triggered, intruders will not want to stay for the extra time required to get through the shatterproof glass barrier.

Other Benefits of Shatterproof Glass

shatterproof glass doorsThe interlayers of shatterproof glass help to reduce sound transmission; your home will be significantly quieter. If you live on a busy street or near a school or commercial district, shatterproof glass can make daily life more pleasant. UV rays are also reduced, keeping the sun from fading fabrics and furniture. With improved insulating properties, your home is more energy efficient.

The extra strength inherent in shatterproof glass makes it a smart choice for home construction. Even if you are in area where safety and security do not seem worth special consideration, there are still enough benefits that shatterproof glass may be your best choice. Though we rarely expect them, accidents and severe weather events can happen anywhere. Hopefully, you will never need the extra protection that shatterproof glass provides, but you will rest easier knowing it is there. At the same time, you will like the reduced sound and glare and improved energy efficiency.

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