Bullet-resistant glass alone is not intended to insulate, so if you need thermal protection as well as ballistic protection, you may want to consider bulletproof insulated glass.
Before TSS, there were limited options for providing both thermal and ballistic protection. That is why we’ve worked so hard over the last several years to expand access to bulletproof insulated glass windows—so organizations like yours have what they need to be safe, successful, and energy efficient.
Why You Need Insulated Bulletproof Glass, Not Just Bulletproof Glass
Bulletproof glass and ballistic window framing are very similar to their non-ballistic counterparts when it comes to thermal performance. So, when there is a big difference between the outdoor and indoor temperatures, non-insulated bulletproof glass transfers heat just like non-insulated window glass. Breaking this thermal bridge is the key to energy efficiency and a comfortable building.
Insulated glass windows feature a double layer of glass, separated by an air gap, and sealed around the edges. That air gap breaks the thermal bridge, preventing thermal transfer between the indoors and outdoors. Our insulated glass units offer bulletproof and thermal insulation by using two panes of ballistic glazing and an air gap.
TSS’ Bulletproof Insulated Glass Options
If you’re looking for exterior windows that offer protection from thermal energy as well as ballistic attacks, there are a few options to choose from. The product that’s right for you depends on your threat level, climate, budget, and other factors.
Defender Insulated Glass Units
Our Defender line of insulated ballistic glass is available in UL Levels 1 through 3. That means that Defender insulated glass units will stop bullets from a wide range of pistols, and also protect against forced entry.
Defender bulletproof glass is made of sealed insulated glass units with inert gas in their air gap. They’re easy to maintain and can often be retrofitted into existing window frames, making them a favorite for building remodeling projects.
Defender insulated glass units have great natural light transmission, around 78% for most makeups. Defender is also available with tinted glass, a translucent white interlayer for a frosted-glass effect, and Low-E coating. Defender insulated bulletproof glass is available in U-Value ranging from 0.25 to 0.48.
GCP Bulletproof Insulated Glass Windows
Our glass-clad polycarbonate (GCP) insulated bulletproof windows are available in UL Levels 1 through 5. GCP is inherently impact resistant, offering some protection from blasts and vandalism. Our GCP insulated windows are also forced-entry rated to ensure any window will withstand prolonged abuse. The testing process for GCP insulated glass windows usually includes an hour-long attempt to break the window with sledgehammers, propane torches, and cutting tools.
We can offer GCP insulated glass with a range of tint colors and darknesses, reflective one-way mirror finishes, frosted interlayers, and Low-E coatings. We can usually match existing non-rated windows, allowing for a stealth security enhancement. Different makeups of clear GCP have different amounts of light transmission ranging from 67% to 84%. From there, they can be tinted down to near opaque, depending on your needs.
Additional Energy-Efficient Options from TSS
Given the huge impact windows have on building performance, anyone installing more than a few exterior ballistic windows will want to consider insulated bulletproof glass. This is especially true if you want to earn LEED certification, or need to meet certain sustainability or efficiency benchmarks.
One especially important option for insulated glazing is Low-E (low emissivity) coating. This is a clear layer of metal oxide applied to one of the interior glass layers in your ballistic window. It allows light to pass through while blocking heat, making windows much more energy efficient while preserving natural light.
We also offer true thermal-break ballistic window framing and a full range of tints, coatings, and finishes. To learn more about your thermal protection options, please request a consultation with one of our ballistic experts.
Ballistic Insulated Glass Window Standards
The UL 752 is the gold standard for bullet-resistant building materials like insulated glass windows. No matter what product you’re considering (including bulletproof windows from another provider) be sure to check that the product is tested to this standard. Without verification, you can’t be sure that bulletproof glass will perform as expected under fire.
In addition to the window’s ballistic qualities, it may be tested against other standards to ensure durability and resilience under other various stresses and threats. These standards often include:
- UL 972: Burglary Resistant
- WMFL Level II - 60 Min Physical Attack
- NSI Z971-1984 Safety Glazing Materials for Building
- ASTM C 1036 Standard Specifications for Flat Glass
- ASTM C 1172 Standard Specification for Laminated Architectural Flat Glass
- CPSC 16 CFR 1201 (Category I and II)
Our bulletproof insulated glass windows are tested to a variety of standards. You can learn more by visiting our product specifications page.
Improve Your Security and Insulation with TSS
During the last 20 years, we’ve worked tirelessly to expand access to safe spaces and ballistic materials. A major component of that will always be education. We’re pleased to make free materials available to support good, comprehensive security planning for every organization of any size.
To learn more or discuss your protective options, contact our ballistic security experts. Our team can help you create your ideal bulletproof security and thermal solution. If you have any questions or are ready to begin moving forward with a project, we’re here to help. Send us a message online to get started.