Security
Are you worried about debris from storms breaking through your windows? Perhaps you want to make your home more difficult for someone to break in? Maybe it is a concern that a broken window means dangerous glass shards on floors where children play? Or is it just amateur golfers outside your back windows that is your concern? Regardless of the reason, there are many possible solutions that can be explored to add effective and cost efficient security. And these can usually be combined with Low-E or Decorative glass to insure that you do not give up efficiency or beauty in the process!
Tempered Glass:
Tempering is the process of heating glass close to its melting point and then cooling it down. This changes the molecular structure of the glass which strengthens it in the process. Equally important, tempered glass also breaks into smaller, more rounded pieces instead of sharp edged shards so it is less likely to cut someone if it is broken. There are specific situations where tempered glass is required by Texas code so Custom Windows always looks for these situations. However, you may have specific safety concerns where adding tempered glass may also add peace of mind to your windows!
Laminated Glass:
Laminated glass is actually two pieces of glass on either side of an inner substrate, usually vinyl or resin based. This package is then put in a furnace and the heat binds the glass to the clear substrate. The result is that if the glass is broken the substrate holds the glass shards together to keeps them from flying into the home. Critically, the laminate layer also resists tearing so even a broken window can keep wind, rain or unwanted people out of your home!
The inner substrate used in laminated glass provides two other important benefits. First, it stops almost over 99% of harmful UV rays. Second, the substrate also absorbs more noise, so a window using a laminated glass pane even quieter.
Lexan® or Acrylic Panes:
Polycarbonate solutions such as Lexan® or acrylic provide significantly more resistance to breaking than an equally thick piece of glass. While these cannot be combined with other glass types to create an insulated glass package, they can be an excellent solution for storm windows. As with laminated glass, synthetic panes can be produced with different thicknesses to increase strength. They also are available in a wide range of tints.
So as you can see, you have many options when it comes to your home’s security. Give us a call to discuss your specific needs!
We would love the opportunity to work on a custom window solution for you!
