What Architects and Contractors Need to Know About Bulletproof Levels

Working with bulletproof materials at different bulletproof levels comes with major structural considerations for both designers and installers. Your primary challenge is the weight and thickness of the material, but that can change drastically for different levels of bulletproofing.

In general, the higher the bulletproof level, the heavier the material becomes, but this is not always the case. For example, Level 5 bulletproof fiberglass weighs 14 pounds per square foot, but Level 6 fiberglass is only 4.7 pounds per square foot. In order to design effectively, you should understand the nuances of the bulletproof material at the different UL levels of protection.

This blog outlines what you need to know.

How Does the UL 752 Rating System for Ballistic Resistance Affect Bulletproof Building Materials?

The levels of bullet resistance come from the UL 752 standard, which has clearly defined testing and acceptance parameters for ballistic barriers. Our materials are independently tested to the UL 752 standard so that our customers have clear expectations of proven safety from our ballistic barriers.

The different UL bulletproof levels provide protection against various weapons and ammunition, which is part of the reason that protection doesn’t increase linearly as the levels increase. Levels 3 and 6 are quite similar, due to the nature of the ammunition.

There is more nuance to the testing parameters, but the most critical data is as follows:

  • Level 1: Provides protection from 3 shots from a 9mm pistol
  • Level 2: Provides protection from 3 shots from a .357 magnum pistol
  • Level 3: Provides protection from 3 shots from a .44 magnum pistol
  • Level 4: Provides protection from 1 shot from a .30 caliber rifle
  • Level 5: Provides protection from 1 shot from a 7.62mm rifle
  • Level 6: Provides protection from 5 shots from a 9mm submachine gun
  • Level 7: Provides protection from 5 shots from a 5.56mm rifle
  • Level 8: Provides protection from 5 shots from a 7.62mm rifle

Per the UL 752 standard, these shots are from close range—15 feet—in a small cluster. As you can imagine, bullet resistant material for such high velocity ballistic attacks requires thick, heavy material. From a structural standpoint, this can be challenging to work with.

Structural and Installation Challenges Working With Bulletproof Materials

Bullet resistant materials are highly engineered for maximum protection. Bullet resistance comes through adding layers of material, which quickly increases the thickness and weight far beyond the materials you typically work with.

Here are the five biggest things you should know about working with ballistic barrier system materials:

1. Panes of Bulletproof Glass Can Weigh Hundreds of Pounds

Not only do these materials require specialized equipment to transport throughout the job site, the engineering concerns are considerable. The weight loading may require specialized framing, including shoring up existing framing to provide adequate structural support. You almost always have different options for materials for each UL level, which means you may be able to choose a material with a lower density. For example, you may opt for an aluminum door over a steel door. See additional architect resources here.

2. The Bulletproof Windows’ Thickness Can Range From ¾” to 2 ½”

Depending on the bulletproof level and the type of glazing. If you need to meet a certain UL level of protection, you may have different ballistic glass options. Not every type of glazing can fit every location, for instance, UL Level 1 acrylic is not suitable for external applications.

3. Bulletproof Glass Pane Size Is Limited

This is due to the size of the autoclave, which is used to heat and fuse the layers of material together. Depending on the type of glazing, the width is limited to five or six feet. This is true for all bulletproof levels. A solid glass wall may be visually appealing, but due to the size constraints these panes require reinforced ballistic framing and mullion in order to maintain their integrity. If you’re designing a bulletproof glass storefront or curtain wall, you’ll want to consider these limitations in your calculations.

4. Many Types of Bulletproof Glass Cannot Be Modified in the Field

For most products, the edge polish must be completed by hand at a certain stage in the manufacturing process. For insulated glass, cutting the product will destroy the air gap, rendering the ballistic glass useless. Products should arrive pre-sized for your needs, and you can follow the installation plan provided. Check out our other tips for installing bulletproof glass here.

5. Many Jobsite Solvents and Cleaners Can Damage Bulletproof Glass

Because ballistic glass is often made of acrylic or polycarbonate instead of tempered glass, traditional cleaning agents can cause crazing and other damage to the window. All Bullet Guard ballistic glass ships with cleaner and a soft, lint-free cloth.

We Offer Practical Design Support for Ballistic Systems

No matter what bulletproof level your client needs, the weight and thickness of the ballistic materials can cause unique challenges.

From structural concerns to installation techniques, Bullet Guard is here for you. Our experienced team can help you address issues with engineering and weight loading, drawing on our practical experience with ballistic system design.

Our ballistic experts can provide guidance every step of the way, to ensure your ballistic system maintains its UL level of protection. For more information about designing and installing bullet resistant materials, please contact us or reach out for a quote.

Understanding Your Bulletproof Project Planning Timeline

The average bulletproof barrier project planning timeline can range from four to eight or more weeks from start to finish, depending on the complexity and scope of the project. However, the project timeline also depends on different factors—some within our control, some not.

Bullet Guard Is Uniquely Equipped to Handle Complex Project Planning

The Bullet Guard team has been helping California and West Coast businesses with their bulletproof projects since 1976.  We have the expertise to provide accurate time estimates for project completion.

When you choose Bullet Guard as your ballistic barrier provider, we’ll walk you through your project planning timeline and the different factors that might impact your project, including:

  • Your project’s size and scope
  • Design and approval process
  • Custom or complex finishes
  • Custom hardware
  • Supply chain availability
  • Shipping times
  • Installation coordination

If You’re Concerned About Timelines, Don’t Wait to Contact Bullet Guard About Your Ballistic Barrier Project

If you’re planning a bulletproof barrier project, we always recommend contacting our team as soon as possible—even if you still have questions about some details. The sooner we can start working with you, the smoother the rest of the project will go.

Work Through Project Design and Engineering

Bulletproof barriers might look simple once they’re installed, but the truth is that they take an incredible amount of engineering to be successful. Bulletproof materials tend to be heavier and thicker than conventional building materials, so the system must be engineered to support itself.

For example, a wall of bulletproof glass windows will sag over time if the framing cannot support the weight of the materials. We never send any project out the door without doing the engineering to ensure its long-term durability. The sooner we start this process, the sooner we can complete it.

Avoid Unnecessary Delays

We advise people to speak with us as soon as possible because it helps us avoid unnecessary delays. Changing your mind on a design can cause the project timeline to change, but working with a team of experts can help avoid the need to make last-minute adjustments. Special-order parts may take more time to arrive, and custom finishes can take longer to complete. Similar to the engineering element of your project, the sooner we can place these orders, the less time we’ll spend waiting on them.

Schedule Installation

We complete most installations after hours to avoid disrupting your business operations. However, this isn’t possible for every facility. Schools, in particular, typically wait until a scheduled break to install their projects, which extends their timeline. Establishing these expectations upfront is critical for project success.

Bullet Guard Is the AEC Community’s Trusted Ballistic Project Planning Partner

As with any construction or renovation project, there will always be the chance of unexpected delays because of circumstances outside your control. When you choose Bullet Guard as your partner, we put our experience and expertise to work for you to minimize the likelihood of unexpected delays.

We’ve been in business since 1976 and have helped secure thousands of facilities in California and up and down the West Coast. If you’re ready to get started, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team today. Our ballistic experts are ready to guide you through your project and help you achieve the safety you’re looking for. Simply fill out the contact form on our website to get started today.

 

Bulletproof Security Booth Design Tips

So, you need a bulletproof security booth. If you work with Bullet Guard on a customized security booth design, we’ll collaborate with you to create a secure barrier that meets your needs. If you’re still researching your options, keep these design tips in mind for creating a safe and functional security booth.

Tip #1: Design for Your Threat Level

Your “threat level” refers to the type of violence you’re most concerned about and the likelihood of a violent event occurring. If you’re reading this blog, you are probably thinking of a few risks you want to protect from. Keep these threats in mind during the security booth design process. For example, if you’re most concerned about people bringing handguns into your facility, don’t panic and think you need the highest level of bulletproof protection. UL Levels 1, 2, and 3 all stop shots from the most common handguns, and will probably protect your guard booth just fine. Once you know what level you need, you can choose your bulletproof building materials accordingly.

When you work with the team at Bullet Guard, we put our decades of experience to work for you. Our team can help you design a security booth that meets your security needs.

Tip #2: Fortify Easily-Overlooked Areas

Most construction materials can’t stop a bullet, so if you need bullet-resistant performance, you have to build it in. When designing a bulletproof guard booth, remember to fortify points that can be easy to overlook, such as the walls. If you’re including a bulletproof door, you’ll need special hardware to support the increased weight.

When creating a bulletproof security booth design, we recommend you include:

Together, these elements create a secure environment that protects your security team while they’re on the job.

Why Bulletproof Framing Matters for Your Security Booth Design

If you need to incorporate bulletproof glass into your security booth design, you can’t do it without bulletproof frames. Bulletproof frames not only support the additional weight of ballistic materials, frames are part of the ballistic barrier. Don’t leave the practical aspect up to engineering; when you include framing in the design phase, you have a better chance of your security booth looking like your designed plans, rather than altering things to accommodate the increased weight and thickness of ballistic glass.

#3: Prioritize Security Booth Usability

Creating a safe work environment shouldn’t come at the expense of security booth usability. All too often, we see workers leave bulletproof doors or bulletproof windows propped open because the team can’t execute job functions with the barrier in the way. Designing barriers without usability in mind puts everyone at an increased risk; bulletproof barriers can’t protect people if they’re not in place when an emergency happens. At Bullet Guard, we make sure everything we create is not only highly secure, but highly usable as well. We’ll work with you to understand how your team needs to use the bulletproof security booth and design a solution to meet their needs. No more propped open doors!

Need a Bulletproof Security Booth Design? Call Bullet Guard

Keeping you safe is our passion and our purpose. Since 1976, we’ve helped customers across California and the southwest stay safe from bullets. To get started, please send us a message or request a quote.

 

How Much Is a Bulletproof Door? | Bullet Guard

One of the most common questions we get is “how much is a bulletproof door?” We typically tell people to expect bulletproof doors to cost about $5,000. This is a general price that isn’t an exact quote. If you want to harden your physical security using bulletproof doors, the price will depend on your unique project.

In this blog, we’ll break down the different factors that influence bulletproof door price so you can get an answer to the question “how much is a bulletproof door?”

Different Types of Bulletproof Doors

Bullet Guard offers four different types of bulletproof doors:

  • Solid core wood doors. With a wood core and fiberglass panels, wood doors offer robust protection in UL Levels 1 through 8.
  • All-clear bulletproof glass doors. All-clear doors made from acrylic or polycarbonate materials offer high visibility; they’re available in UL Levels 1, 2, and 3.
  • Full and half lite doors. Customize your level of visibility with windowed aluminum or stainless steel doors, available in UL Levels 1 through 8.
  • Hollow metal doors. The ultimate form of practical protection, hollow metal steel bulletproof doors are available in UL Levels 1 through 8.

Our bulletproof doors are designed to blend seamlessly with the environment and engineered to stop bullets. Most bulletproof doors are virtually indistinguishable from their non-rated counterparts.

Why Are Bulletproof Doors So Expensive?

On the surface, a bulletproof door might look like any other door. However, in order to resist bullets, doors need special components, engineering, testing, and fabrication—all factors that cost more than a typical, non-rated door.

For instance, the hardware used on bulletproof doors is specially designed to withstand impact and not sag under the increased weight of a bullet-resistant door over time. The invisible fiberglass panels trap bullets, keeping people and property safe on the other side. And the aesthetics match the existing architecture, making facilities physically secure without feeling constrained, boxed in, or otherwise uncomfortable.

Choosing a higher bulletproof level will also contribute to a higher cost, as will a custom door design. Certain designs can require a high level of expertise and skill to recreate in bulletproof designs, such as oversize, all-clear bulletproof doors. For many of our customers, the one-time investment in their bulletproof door is worth the security and peace of mind.

If you have specific hardware you want to use, design you want to see realized, or any other specific need, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We can walk you through the process of making your ballistic bulletproof door design functional and provide a quote for the project.

Learn More About Your Bulletproof Door Options and Get a Quote From Bullet Guard

Since 1976, the Bullet Guard team has supported California and the American Southwest in protecting what matters most. We’re proud to design and fabricate high-quality ballistic products like bulletproof doors. If you’re interested in hardening your facility’s physical security, please contact us today. We can help you find the right door for your situation; to get started, fill out the contact form or request a quote.

How to Install Bulletproof Glass: Tips for Contractors Working in Commercial Facilities

Installing ballistic glass is different from typical, non-rated glazing. If you’ve never installed bulletproof glass, incorrect handling could result in material failure. Having the right know-how can make the bulletproof glass installation project go more smoothly. Bullet Guard has been serving the Western United States since 1976 so we have decades of experience fabricating and installing ballistic barriers. This blog covers essential steps of how to install bulletproof glass in a commercial facility. Please note that we do not provide bulletproof glass for residences or vehicles.

Installing Bulletproof Glass Starts with Receiving Your Product Shipment

Installing ballistic glass the right way starts before the product even arrives on the jobsite. We always recommend conducting a site assessment before installation day. Go over the space’s conditions; do you have access to a loading dock or freight elevator? Will you need a hi-lo or pallet jack? Would it make more sense for materials to arrive on a flatbed truck or dry van? If you know what you need ahead of time, we can help you coordinate.

Once the bulletproof glass has been delivered, take the time to inspect everything for errors. If you receive a damaged product, send it back. This doesn’t happen often, but when it does, tell the Bullet Guard team as soon as possible. You don’t want to get halfway through an install before you realize there’s an issue—especially if that issue wasn’t your fault. Plus, catching issues before bulletproof glass installation is complete prevents material failure later on and protects your good name and reputation of quality workmanship.

Now, it’s time to create a plan for transporting the bulletproof glass through the jobsite so you can install them. Remember, bullet-resistant materials are heavy! Each piece can weigh up to 800 pounds, often requiring specialized equipment to lift and carry. Expect some level of difficulty maneuvering large sheets of glazing through hallways, up stairs, or in elevators.

How to Install Bulletproof Glass: Tips for the Pros

Once you’re ready to get started installing bulletproof glass, double check all your materials. This includes the products, your tools, and the master plan. Verify the system’s color, height, and other details. Double check your surroundings, to ensure you’re not installing the system in the middle of a light fixture or an outlet.

Then, lay out your channels according to the top-down, overall view of the system. Doing this first will ensure everything matches. Your glazing should match the channel, but don’t assume everything will match! Once again, it’s better to double check everything before you begin. You should also make sure the threat and secure sides of the glass are oriented correctly. Mount all the framing and channels in the specified opening. Install the gasketing (also called sponge and wedge) between the bulletproof glass and the edge of the frame. Note that you may need to split the sponge and wedge.

Once you’ve set the bulletproof glass in the channel according to the engineering plan, peel the protective sheet off each panel. Clean the ballistic glazing with the cleaner included in your order. Do not use regular glass cleaner, which can damage the surface of bulletproof glass.

Pro Tip for Preventing Damage to Bulletproof Glass During Installation

Don’t leave lacquer cleaner or anything that has lacquer cleaner on it (like rags) anywhere near the bulletproof glass! Lacquer cleaner is a common product used in various types of installations, so it’s normal to have it on a job site. However, this product can damage ballistic glass! Avoid accidentally using lacquer cleaner on your glazing by keeping these items far away from the bulletproof glass you’re installing.

Successfully Install Bulletproof Glass with Bullet Guard

It typically takes a team of two to four people one to three days to install bulletproof glass systems. Less complex projects may take less time, more complex planning may take more time. Since our founding in 1976, we’ve worked closely with the AEC community and are happy to help you plan your bulletproof glass project installation. To learn more about how to install bulletproof glass or get a quote on bulletproof glass, send us a message or give our office a call at 866.950.4231.

Increase Office Safety With Bulletproof Safe Rooms and Other Ballistic Features

Is your office prepared if the unthinkable happens?

Ballistic security is becoming increasingly critical. Safety features like safe rooms and bulletproof doors add a layer of security that protect your team’s safety and mental well-being—especially when they’re designed to be aesthetically pleasing.

We’ve helped companies protect their employees for decades; these are the bulletproof safety features that every office manager should consider.

glass walled saferoom

Promote Staff Security with Bulletproof Safe Rooms

If your office has an existing interior conference room, congratulations! This space is an ideal candidate for creating a bulletproof safe room. To transform a conference room into a bulletproof safe room, simply line the walls with bulletproof fiberglass panels and replace the existing door and glass with bulletproof options. The team at Bullet Guard can help you design ballistic replacements that look nearly identical to the original glass and door. Or, we can design something new and unique. Either way, your space will still look and feel like a standard conference room.

Preserve Aesthetics with a Bulletproof Front Door

The doors to your office suite or building set the tone for your space. If they’re not bulletproof, they can also be a liability.

Making the front doors bulletproof might seem like a quick way to disrupt your office’s design aesthetic. When you choose Bullet Guard as your ballistic partner, we collaborate with you to design bulletproof front doors that meet both your aesthetic and security needs. In fact, we offer a number of all-glass options that make your doors nearly identical to non-ballistic front doors.

Moderate Visitor Traffic with a Secure Vestibule

Double doors at an entryway are so par for the course, many people don’t think twice about using them. However, they’re one of the most impactful safety features you can add to your building—especially when the doors are bulletproof. Bullet Guard can help you transform an existing entry vestibule into a bulletproof mantrap. Or, we can work with you to design something that fits in your existing space without disrupting the existing design.

Bulletproof Your Windows with Backglazing

Interested in bulletproof protection but can’t replace all of your windows with ballistic glass? That’s no problem. Our team can help secure your office windows using backglazing—an extra layer of ballistic glass that sits inside the existing windows. Backglazing can be set in place, like a storm window. For floor-to-ceiling windows, backglazing can be used to protect the most vulnerable parts of the glass, usually the space at the bottom where people are most likely to be in a line of fire.

Design, Fabricate, and Install Bulletproof Projects with Bullet Guard

These projects are just a few of the options that Bullet Guard can create. Since 1976, Bullet Guard has protected California and the southwest from ballistic threats. Our team makes the process of protecting your offices easy; whether you have project plans and just need to find a ballistic barrier provider, or would like help designing and engineering a solution, Bullet Guard is ready to help. And once your project is completed, we can install it for you, too. To learn more about our capabilities, please don’t hesitate to send us a message or request a quote.

Three Best Practices for Bulletproof Windows for Convenience Stores and Gas Stations

If you’re a gas station or convenience store owner who’s worried about being one of the 267,988 robberies that happen every year, bulletproof windows are a practical way to keep your team safe and even deter crime. But before you rush out to install a bulletproof window, consider implementing these three best practices in the process.

1. Choose a Level of Bulletproof Protection That Reflects Your Threat Level

According to the FBI, firearms are used in 36% of robberies in the United States. For store owners and managers looking for a practical level of protection, UL Levels 1, 2, and 3 all offer coverage from a range of handgun fire. Levels 1 and 3 in particular are popular options. If you’re interested in a higher level of coverage, Levels 4 or 5 may be a good fit for your store or gas station, as both offer varying levels of protection from rifle fire. Be aware that as the level of protection increases, so does the weight and thickness of the barrier—and the price.

We want you to make the most of your budget without compromising safety. Please don’t hesitate to bring up your concerns with our team. We’ve been designing and installing ballistic barriers since 1974, and are ready to help you get started today.

2. Use Package Passers and Voice Ports Instead of a Barrier Cutout

If your team has been relying on a cutout in a barrier to pass items, there are safer ways! Best practices dictate that there is no clear shooting lane between the threat and secure sides of the glass. Using a package passer or deal tray lets you do business without leaving your staff vulnerable to threat.

A solid barrier can also make hearing difficult if you don’t have tools in place to address sound transfer. A best practice is to use a voice transfer tool such as a voice port or speak through. We offer a range of sound transfer options, including a variety of voice ports and voice around systems that give you a way to speak naturally with your clientele, without the use of intercoms or microphones.

gas station counter by window

3. Invest Time in Barrier Design Upfront

If you’re ready to just put a sheet of bulletproof glass up and be done with it, we encourage you to wait and think about your barrier’s design and how it’ll fit in your convenience store or gas station. This serves two purposes. First, you’ll avoid simple mistakes, like blocking a vent, a camera, or a light. Second, you’ll be more likely to have a visually appealing barrier that blends in with your environment, rather than looking like a bulky, cumbersome wall between you and your customers. One of the biggest concerns people have about installing bulletproof windows for convenience stores and gas stations is that the window will make the premises look unwelcoming or even dangerous. Taking the time to design a barrier helps you not only avoid this issue, but create something that can be downright beautiful.

A System Will Protect Your Convenience Store Better Than One Single Barrier Product

If you’re ready to invest in comprehensive ballistic protection for your convenience store or gas station, it’s time to take a systems approach. An entire system—including countertops, wall panels, and other accessories—will offer your team more protection than one single bulletproof window. Creating effective, visually appealing systems is what we do best, and our team is ready to help you get started protecting your California convenience store or gas station today.

Bullet Guard Can Help You With Your Bulletproof Windows for Convenience Stores and Gas Stations

The Bullet Guard team has been designing, fabricating, and installing ballistic barriers in California since 1974. We know what it takes to keep your team safe and are ready to speak with you about your options. To get started, fill out our contact form or call our team at 866.941.9552.

Three Myths About “Bulletproof” Window Film, Busted

Security window film is a popular physical security product; it’s a relatively inexpensive layer of thermoplastic film that can be applied over existing window glass. Security window film is also gaining a reputation for being bulletproof or ballistic…even though standard film products that fit this description can’t stop a bullet.

At Bullet Guard, we believe consumers should have the information they need to make informed choices about their security. We know there are a lot of myths about what so-called “bulletproof” film can and can’t do; in this article, we outline three myths about security window film (which is the more accurate product name) so you can understand your security product options.

Myth #1: All Security Window Film Is Bulletproof

The Facts: Not all window security films offer bulletproof or ballistic protection! Different types of film have different capabilities, which are indicated by a third-party rating and testing information. For instance, the UL 752 bulletproofing standard is the gold standard for ballistic products. If window film is not rated or tested to this standard, it’s likely that it can’t stop a bullet.

If film is applied in a single, thin layer (usually measured in mils) over existing window glass, the product won’t offer ballistic protection. This is the most common type of security window film on the market today.

True bulletproof window film is typically very thick and requires replacing existing window glass. Sometimes, thin, single-layer film products are described as ballistic, so be sure to look for testing information to validate that claim.

Myth #2: Security Window Film Is an Equivalent Alternative to Bulletproof Glass

The Facts: Security window film does not protect from bullets like ballistic glass. Many schools and businesses choose security window film because it seems like a budget-friendly alternative to bulletproof glass. While window film might be more affordable than bulletproof glazing, it does not offer the same level of protection. The most common security window film products are only designed to delay an assailant’s entry, not stop bullets. This means that when a window with security film is shot, the bullet goes through but the window glass is held in place instead of shattering out, making it more challenging for a would-be intruder to get through the window and into the building.

While bulletproof glass also holds together when shot, it stops the bullet, protecting people on the other side of the glass.

Myth #3: Security Window Film Offers Comprehensive Protection

The Facts: Security window film only delays forced entry.

Because security window film can’t stop a bullet, we always recommend using it in places where there are no people behind the glass. If you need to protect people, use bulletproof glass.

We are enthusiastic advocates for using the right products in the right places. In some applications, film is the right solution! If you’re not sure about whether to choose bulletproof glass or security window film, please reach out to our team. We can help you identify which product is right for you and your threat level.

Protect Your People with Bulletproof Glass

Bulletproof glass is the most reliable means of ballistic protection. At Bullet Guard, we independently test all of our ballistic glass products to the UL 752 standard so you can trust that you’re getting comprehensive ballistic protection. We can also work with you to design and engineer a custom bulletproof system that fits perfectly in your space without compromising functionality.

Ready to Get Started? Contact Bullet Guard Today

We’ve been manufacturing bullet-resistant glass since 1976 and are ready to help you secure your facility today. To get started, give us a call at 866.941.9552 or fill out our contact form to send us a message.

How Much Does Bulletproof Glass Cost?

The price of bulletproof glass depends on many factors, such as the type of glass and level of protection. Because there are so many factors impacting the price of commercial bulletproof glass it’s impossible to quote a specific price in an article like this. Therefore, we can share that the price range of UL levels 1 through 3 is approximately $45 to $60 per square foot.

Factors That Affect the Price of Bulletproof Glass

Bulletproof glass costs are not quite as simple as just the cost per square foot. Some of the other factors that go into the overall project cost include the type of glass, level of protection, finishing elements, and other services.

Type of Bulletproof Glass

Complex types of bulletproof glass, like glass-clad polycarbonate, are more expensive than less complex construction, like monolithic acrylic. It is important to note that the cost of the glass does not mean “better” than the other. The cost simply reflects the additional cost of materials and construction time.

Level of Protection

Bullet-resistant glass with higher levels of protection require more material to successfully stop rifle fire. For example, Level 1 laminated polycarbonate is ¾” thick and has five layers. Level 8 GCP is 2 ½” thick and has 11 layers. Many of these individual materials require complex fabrication to increase strength and durability. Again, this difference in material cost is reflected in the overall cost.

Finishing Elements and Framing

Bullet-resistant glass often requires special framing to support the unit’s weight. When glass edges are not covered by a frame, we add a special beveling and polish to elevate the aesthetics. The cost of these finishing elements varies by project and design style. The goal is to create a ballistic barrier that blends seamlessly with your existing architecture and aesthetics, so the finishing details are based on your unique situation.

Additional Services

While not directly connected to the ballistic glass fabrication, shipping and installation services contribute to overall project cost. Handing ballistic glass is very different from working with common float glass, requiring specialized knowledge and techniques. This makes hiring the Bullet Guard team (or a glazier who specializes in bulletproof glass) a good choice for your project. We always provide customers with quotes for these line items so they can budget appropriately.

Bullet Guard Brings Over 45 Years of Expertise to Your Project

When you choose Bullet Guard as your bulletproof glass supplier, you’re not only getting a top-of-the-line ballistic barrier product, you’re getting over 45 years of experience, expertise, and insight. We know how to make the process simple and take every measure to make sure you get exactly what you need to keep your facility safe. This includes having straightforward conversations about threat level and level of protection needed; we know that ballistic barrier products are an investment, which is why we’re committed to selling you only the products you need, and never the products you don’t so you can make the most of your budget.

Get Started with Bullet Guard

If you’re trying to budget for a bulletproof glass project, the best way to get accurate numbers is to speak with one of our experts. Our team is ready to speak with you about your goals and how we can help. Whether you’re an end-user looking to fortify a facility or a contractor in search of a supplier, get started by giving us a call at 866.941.9552 or fill out our contact form to send us a message. We look forward to speaking with you!

Bulletproof Glass Installation Tips and Tricks

If you’ve never installed a bulletproof glass barrier before, you might be in for some surprises! Because ballistic glazing is heavier and thicker than standard glass, it’s more difficult to work with and requires special know-how when you’re installing in the field.

In this blog, we outline the steps installers and glaziers can take to make their project go off without a hitch.

Plan Your Bulletproof Glass Installation Project Carefully

Plan out how you will complete the bulletproof glass installation ahead of time. This includes the number of people you’ll have on-site, the amount of time you’ll need, and all the tools and equipment you’ll use.

Most Bullet Guard installs take one to three days with two to four people. These highly-trained craftsmen should know what’s arriving, where it needs to go, and how to get it there. Remember, glazing is very very heavy. You may not be able to move it using familiar methods.

Double Check Tools, Materials, and Space Before Getting Started

Once you receive the shipment, inspect materials before beginning the installation. If there’s an issue, point it out to the manufacturer right away. This prevents product failure later on and protects your team from being held accountable for damage that wasn’t your fault. Then, double check your materials, your tools, and the master plan to make sure you have everything you need to get started.

After you’re confident in the materials’ condition, lay out your channels according to the top-down, overall view of the system to ensure they match. Make sure everything matches the plan, verifying color, height, and other details. An important step in this process is to ensure the threat and secure sides of the glass are oriented correctly. You don’t want to install a barrier backwards!

Finally, make sure your workspace is ready for the installation. Double check that there are no light fixtures or outlets that are in the way of where the barrier needs to go. It’s rare, but it happens.

You Cannot Cut Bulletproof Glass in the Field

If there’s a sizing error, a quick cut on the fly won’t solve the problem. Ballistic glazing is often made of several layers of glass, polycarbonate, and special adhesives. Cutting the product down to size not only damages the polished edge, but can cause irreparable damage to those layers (especially if you’re working with an insulated glass unit IGU, which includes interior air-gaps). Again, if there’s a size issue, contact the manufacturer.

Steps to Take to Make the Bulletproof Glass Installation Go Smoothly

Once you’re ready to begin the bulletproof glass installation, there are a few tips that will make the process go more smoothly:

  • Lay out the U channel that will accept the glazing
  • Mount all the framing and channels in the specified opening
  • Peel the protective sheet off each panel. Clean them thoroughly with the cleaner provided by Bullet Guard
  • Consult the documents that came with your order to identify where each window will fit within the system
  • Install each window, along with any support system required by the engineering plan
  • Install any system accessories, such as package exchangers

When you’re done, clean all glazing again using the same specialized cleaner. You’re ready to step back and admire your handiwork!

Be Careful About Which Cleaners and Solvents You Use on Ballistic Glass

It’s extremely important that you do not use a conventional cleaner or any other product on the glazing. Some solvents are commonly used in the installation process, and it’s all too easy to accidentally apply them to the window. These liquids can damage the glazing, causing what’s called “crazing,” a fine spider web of cracks on the surface of the bulletproof glass.

Installing Bulletproof Glass or a Bulletproof Barrier? Bullet Guard Can Help

Working with glazing has a learning curve. If you’re unsure about a job, would like more resources, or more information on Bullet Guard’s installation capabilities, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We’ve been manufacturing and installing bulletproof glass and other ballistic barriers since 1976 and are ready to help you with your project. To get started, give our office a call or send us a message. We look forward to speaking with you!

 

Quality Assurance

Licensed California Contractor # 712959

BBB Accredited Business UL