Bulletproof windows are designed to stop bullets and ballistic threats from hurting people on the other side, whether that be in a moving vehicle, school, bank or office building. This article takes a look at how they can help, provides insight into the types of bulletproof windows available today, and explains the costs involved so you can decide if they meet your security needs.
Key Points to Know:
- Bulletproof windows are designed to stop ballistic threats while also providing visibility. This leads to increased safety in high-risk areas such as schools and banks.
- The cost of bulletproof windows varies greatly depending on materials and project scope, with average costs being in the range of $500 per square foot. This does not include maintenance costs or additional installations needed in the future.
- Bulletproof windows are a key layer of security that should be incorporated as part of an organization’s comprehensive security strategy, which also includes safety measures such as surveillance systems and lock mechanisms.
What are Bulletproof Windows?
Bulletproof windows, which are also commonly referred to as ballistic windows, are windows engineered for protection. They are made of material so strong that it can deflect threats such as bullets, shrapnel, and other projectiles. However, these windows are also transparent like a regular window to ensure visibility, so those on the inside or outside still have a full view of vision for increased safety. The main purpose of bulletproof windows is to protect people and property from threats, making them an important part of an overall security infrastructure in high-risk areas such as schools, banks, government buildings and other public places.
Bulletproof windows are generally made of laminated glass and polycarbonate, but can sometimes incorporate other specialized synthetic materials. These different layers work together to enhance the protective capabilities of the bulletproof window, making it strong enough to stop bullets and other dangerous threats that can have a devastating impact. Working together, these materials create a strong barrier that can withstand various levels of ballistic threats. However, they vary in effectiveness depending on the thickness and composition of the window as well as the type of threat.
Types of Bulletproof Glass
There are four types of bulletproof glass commercially available today. Each type of window has its own features and level of protection, catering to different security needs and applications.
- Acrylic - This bulletproof glass is made from a single piece of thermoplastic, known for its high optical clarity and ease of fabrication. This type of glass is often used where visibility and aesthetic appeal are important.
- Laminated polycarbonate - This glass combines two sheets of polycarbonate between acrylic layers, providing better protection than any single material alone. The combination allows the glass to absorb and disperse the energy from bullets, making it a stronger option.
- Glass-clad polycarbonate - As the strongest option, this window has layers of glass and polycarbonate. This type of glass can stop multiple rounds and has the highest level of protection among the four options.
- Insulated glass – This option includes multiple laminated panes with sealed airspace, providing good thermal insulation and security features.
Each of the options outlined above serves a purpose, providing organizations and security professionals with a variety of choices that meet their individual security needs. However, one thing to consider before installing bulletproof glass is that, unlike regular glass, it requires specialized maintenance and structural reinforcement due to its weight and complexity.
How Effective are Bulletproof Windows?
The effectiveness of bulletproof windows against bullets is dependent on the caliber of the ammunition and the rating of the glass. When looking at installing these windows, it’s important to consider the potential threats your organization may have. No material is completely impervious, and specific high-caliber firearms or sustained attacks can penetrate some bulletproof windows.
Despite their name, bulletproof windows are not entirely bulletproof. They can be breached by extremely high-powered weapons or even specialized ammunition. While bullet-resistant glass can withstand certain impacts, its effectiveness can be improved with thickness and material refinement. Ensuring these windows are locked further enhances their effectiveness, as the locking mechanisms play a critical role in securing an organization during a mass shooting or other gun violence crisis.
A key benefit of bulletproof windows is that they provide protection without compromising optical clarity. By being able to see through the glass, organizations can not only maintain the aesthetics of the building, but also ensure that during a threat, both first responders and those inside the building have clarity on what is happening both inside and outside the building or vehicle.
The Cost of Window Options Varies Greatly
The cost of bulletproof windows has a wide range, depending on the specific requirements and how strong the window needs to be. For example, glass that can stop high-power rifle rounds costs around $500 per square foot. In general, the installation of small systems can start from $7,000 to $10,000, while mid-size systems may cost from $15,000 to $25,000.
Other factors that may influence the overall cost are the installation provider chosen and how many windows are needed. It’s important to get multiple quotes because contractor quotes also vary widely and can affect the total cost.
Installation Costs
Installation costs for bulletproof windows have several components, starting with the approximate cost per square foot and structural modifications needed to support the weight of the glass. Labor cost for installing these secure new windows also contributes to the total cost.
The complexity of the installation varies depending on the building’s architecture and modifications needed. Organizations often think that glass is a one-time purchase; however, a glazing process may be needed, which can incur additional costs that need to be factored into the overall budget.
Maintaining and/or Replacing Bulletproof Windows
Bulletproof windows require regular inspections and repairs to maintain their effectiveness. UV rays can break down the protective layers over time, which means that windows need to be replaced every 20 years. Specialized cleaning solutions are also recommended to preserve the integrity of the windows and ensure they continue to work at the highest level.
Regular maintenance is important to ensure ongoing protection from bulletproof windows. Environmental factors such as weather and exposure to the exterior elements can degrade the materials, making regular upkeep essential. By following a set maintenance schedule, organizations can ensure the window’s effectiveness and functionality over its lifespan.
Pros and Cons of Bulletproof Windows in Schools
Bulletproof windows have many advantages for schools, which is why they have become an important layer of protection in both K-12 and higher education. Having these installed increases safety during active shooter incidents and can also provide valuable time for students and staff to escape or take cover. Not to mention, the presence of these windows often instills a higher sense of security among students, parents, and educators. This can significantly reduce anxiety in an age where mass shootings and gun violence have become a common occurrence in schools. In fact, schools that have installed bulletproof windows have reported a significant increase in perceived safety, making the learning environment more positive and secure.
It is important to understand that implementing bulletproof windows in schools also has its challenges. For example, the financial investment required can strain tight school budgets, making it hard for some schools to afford these security features. Also, while bulletproof windows can stop gunfire and bullet threats, they can be ineffective against other threats like unlocked doors, bombs, or fire. This highlights the need for schools to have a comprehensive security strategy that addresses multiple threats with different tools, procedures, or technologies. As an example, a simple unlocked door can create huge security gaps, allowing attackers to bypass physical defenses and escalate threats. However, if automatic door locks are installed, this threat can be better mitigated in a crisis.
Despite its limitations, the benefits of bulletproof windows in schools are clear. They provide a layer of protection, securing both students and staff. While schools must weigh the costs and limitations when deciding to install these security features, they have become an important layer of protection that should not be ignored.
Complementing Bulletproof Windows for Enhanced Safety
The benefits of bulletproof windows are clear, and even though they may be a significant investment, they are most effective when combined with other forms of protection against gun violence. This may include traditional measures such as metal detectors, added school resource officers, and perimeter fences, but may also include intelligent security solutions such as visual AI gun detection.
Visual AI gun detection from companies such as Omnilert works with existing security cameras to identify a weapon in a fraction of a second. Once human verified, it can instantly activate a response that includes dispatching police, locking doors, sounding alarms, and automating other responses to notify those in harm’s way and save lives.
By adding a variety of traditional security measures, as well as new innovative technologies such as visual AI gun detection, schools can provide an extra layer of protection to overall school safety.
Security Window Film as an Alternative
When budgets are an issue, security window film is a cost-effective alternative to bulletproof glass, turning standard windows into barriers against forced entry without replacing the glass. These films come in various thicknesses from 8 to 21 millimeters, increasing the glass’s resistance to breakage and holding shattered glass in place. However, it’s important to understand that while thin security window film may delay entry to a gunman, it won’t stop a bullet. This makes it much less effective than bulletproof glass for certain threats.
Security window film is ideal for unattended areas such as back doors or side windows. If you are evaluating this as an option, it is recommended to look for products with ratings or testing information based on third-party standards such as the UL 752 Standard for Bullet Resistance. This ensures the ballistic window film meets safety criteria.
AI Surveillance Systems
As touched on briefly above, visual AI gun detection has emerged as a successful layer of security against gun violence and is being recognized across the globe for its success. As an example, Omnilert Gun Detect recently received the full SAFETY Act Designation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and is now elevated to the “Approved Technologies List”. Achieving the SAFETY Act is a rigorous multi-year process and is granted only to technologies that have been thoroughly tested and can prove their effectiveness as an anti-terrorism product.
Omnilert AI Gun Detection can be integrated into any existing security camera, and once a threat is verified, it can instantly activate a response that includes dispatching police, locking doors, sounding alarms, and automating other responses to notify those in harm’s way and save lives. It doesn’t matter if a school has 10 cameras or 1,000 because it can monitor them all simultaneously, while never getting distracted or tired like a human monitor would.
Integrating AI surveillance systems with other security measures creates a robust security infrastructure that enhances overall safety. These systems complement physical barriers such as bulletproof windows and provide a more holistic approach to school security.
Case Studies: Bulletproof Windows in Action
By reviewing real-world examples of bulletproof windows in action, it is clear that they can be effective at increasing school security in school settings. Schools that have installed bulletproof windows also report increased confidence in safety among students and staff.
Bulletproof systems are also effective in small retail settings such as gas stations, where they enhance security in areas with direct customer interaction.
No matter where the windows are installed, the lessons learned from these installations highlight the need for a comprehensive security strategy. Combining bulletproof windows with other security measures such as visual AI gun detection, door locks, and metal detectors creates a safer environment by deterring potential threats and giving peace of mind to all stakeholders.
Best Practices for Bulletproof Windows
When installing bulletproof windows, it is important to consider their placement because this is a key element to their success. As a best practice, these windows should be installed at main entrances, high-traffic areas, reception areas, entrance vestibules, and office windows. And for those worried about the aesthetics of these windows in such visible areas, installation professionals have a variety of methods that help ensure better integration with existing architectural design and compliance with building codes and safety regulations.
Building a More Secure Future
As this article highlighted, bulletproof windows offer measurable benefits to school security as well as other public places such as banks, convenience stores, and government offices, to help fullfil their duty of care obligations and help keep people safe. They can provide vital protection against ballistic threats while also making students, staff, and patrons safer in their environment.
If you are considering installing these windows, there are several things to consider, such as cost, limitations, maintenance, and options in glass materials and thickness. Having all of this information readily available will help you make a more informed decision on the type of window that will work best for your organization’s needs, infrastructure, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are bulletproof windows designed to protect against?
Bulletproof windows are designed to protect against ballistic threats, bullets, and shrapnel. They enhance safety in areas that may be exposed to gunfire or explosive violence.
How much does bulletproof glass cost per square foot?
Bulletproof glass that can stop multiple high-power rifle rounds costs around $500 per square foot.
How often do bulletproof windows need to be replaced?
Bulletproof windows should be replaced every 20 years, as UV exposure can break down the protective layers over time. Regular maintenance is also important to ensure continued safety and effectiveness.
What are the benefits of bulletproof windows in schools?
Bulletproof windows in schools increase safety during active shooter incidents and provide a strong deterrent against ballistic threats. The use of these windows helps parents, students, and educators feel safe, leading to a more productive and safe learning environment.
Are there alternatives to bulletproof windows for school security?
Security window film is an alternative to bulletproof windows for school security by providing proactive threat detection. These can complement traditional security measures to create a safer environment.
Are bulletproof windows alone effective against gun violence?
With the growing rate of gun violence, no one technology, product, or strategy can provide the protection that schools and other public places need to be safe. That is why it is always recommended to have layers of protection as part of your overall security infrastructure. This could include bulletproof windows, but should also be complemented by technologies such as visual AI gun detection, metal detectors, and automatic door locks.