Category Archive: Uncategorized

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.

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.

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!

How to Design a Police Station for Ballistic Security

If you’re working on adding a layer of ballistic protection to a police station, there’s a strong chance you aren’t starting from scratch. Many police stations are built with security in mind. Concrete blocks are an excellent bullet-resistant building material that are very common, as are entryways that regulate the flow of traffic. Small additions and substitutions can take existing features and make them even more secure and effective.

However, adding a layer of ballistic protection to these existing structures (and even new construction!) requires experience and expertise. We’ve been designing and fabricating industry-leading bulletproof barriers since 1976 and are proud to help protect municipalities around the country. In this blog, we outline five practical tips for designing a police station for ballistic security.

1. Identify and Secure Weak Points

If you haven’t done so already, conduct a security assessment. What weak points need to be secured? Side lites, half lites, and other windows in doors can be a security risk if they’re not secured with bulletproof glass. Additionally, door frames and hardware are often-overlooked weak points.

Many precincts choose to add bulletproof glass transaction windows to separate officers and other staff from the public, adding ballistic paneling to countertops and desks, and other surfaces that would stand between your team and a threat.

Finally, exterior windows are often a weak point that many stations choose to address. If there are exterior windows (or doors) that offer a clear view into the station’s interior, consider reinforcing them with bulletproof glass. A reflective coating can help deter potential threats by preventing them from shooting into the building.

2. Regulate Access

Simple additions to existing architecture can make a police station exponentially more secure. Instead of an open space for people to speak with officers or staff, consider adding a transaction window. Windows are available in several different designs, with different options for talk-through ports and package or document passing. Instead of a single set of doors, adding another layer creates a man trap that allows you to regulate who comes in and out—and trap potentially violent individuals who come into your facility with harmful intentions.

If you already have these features in place, replacing existing barriers with bulletproof glass only adds to the level of security in your facility.

3. Identify Opportunities Within the Building’s Exterior Perimeter

Once you’ve identified what you need to reinforce in the perimeter between the public and the police team it’s time to consider the interior opportunities. In addition to our bulletproof glass, Bullet Guard can also fabricate impact-rated glazing. This glass can stand up to various levels of blunt force and is ideal in any situation where you might deal with a violent or potentially unruly individual, such as an interrogation room. We can also add special coatings to ballistic and impact glass to make it tinted, a one-way mirror, and more. For more information about our capabilities, please reach out to us.

4. Your Ballistic System Should Blend In

It’s hard to protect and serve when you and your constituents feel like you’re in a bunker! Whether you’re designing a new police station or retrofitting an existing structure, your ballistic barrier should blend in seamlessly. Ideally, it should look like another architectural feature, if the public notices it at all. Transaction windows in particular risk looking bulky and cumbersome; at worst, the barriers keep your team from doing their jobs. Bullet Guard specializes in visually sleek systems that look great without sacrificing functionality. This includes backglazing projects, which adds a layer of bulletproof glass to exterior windows, rather than replacing the entire window with a ballistically-rated option.

5. Make Your Design Decisions Based on Context

No recommendation is going to be perfect for every precinct. If your area has a particular challenge, talk to your Bullet Guard representative about those issues so we can recommend the right product for your situation. You know your station’s needs better than anyone—it’s our job to make sure you have the right tools in place to keep your officers safe.

Bullet Guard Has Helped Fortify Police Stations and We’re Ready to Help You

Our team is proud to work with law enforcement agencies across the state, helping them secure their facilities from ballistic threats. This includes elegant transaction windows, guard booths, exterior windows, and more.

Need to Incorporate Ballistic Protection Into Your Police Station Design? Bullet Guard Is Your Trusted Partner

For pricing information, a quote, or to speak with one of our experts about our projects, please give us a call at 916.373.0402 or  send us a message. We look forward to speaking with you!

Ballistic Partners to the AEC Community

Architects, engineers, and construction professionals need ballistic partners they can trust. Bullet Guard is proud to partner with the AEC community on all types of ballistic projects. Whether you’re working on your first bulletproof project or your fiftieth, you’re in the right place.

As concerns over workplace violence grow, Bullet Guard is your trusted resource for exceptional ballistic products, insightful design support, and timely installation.

Bullet Guard Is Your One Stop Shop for Ballistic Barriers

After nearly 50 years in the industry we know how much of a financial investment ballistic barrier projects can be. While it’s certainly tempting to shop around when you’re developing project specs, we believe that sticking with one provider has plenty of benefits—especially when you choose to work with our team.

Choosing Bullet Guard means ensuring that every component of your project is cohesive. Components will fit together visually and physically. Plus, we’re able to identify potential challenges and make helpful suggestions about how to resolve them. For instance, bulletproof glass is substantially heavier than standard tempered or float glass. This additional weight requires special frames and systems to support it. If your designs don’t take weight into account, we’ll make sure you have a good solution in place.

We Design and Fabricate All Kinds of Complex Bulletproof Solutions

Bullet Guard’s product offerings include bulletproof doors, windows, barriers, frames, enclosures, accessories, and fiberglass panels. Our capabilities include standard designs as well as complex custom work for all industries.

Because we have such robust custom capabilities, everything we build is per your specifications. We never have to modify your designs or specifications to fit the product. The end result is not only exactly what your client called for, it’s beautifully executed. In many cases, users barely notice that the barriers are there.

Our Proven Process Ensures Flawless Execution

Whether you already have project drawings or need to create them, we support you every step of the way. Every project goes through our Proven Process.

This refined approach means we know what questions to ask, steps to take, and mistakes to avoid to ensure your project gets completed on time and on budget. Plus, our team of experienced project managers makes sure that you, the client, know what’s happening at all times, reducing stress.

We Offer Practical Design Support

Need help nailing down some of the details? We’re happy to help with that. Our team is always available to suggest solutions that best fit your project applications, such as type of transaction window or speak through port, level of ballistic protection, and customized elements. And like we previously discussed, we’ll always make sure that your designs are feasible and appropriate for the setting.

Protective Packaging and Shipping

Our custom shipping crates are almost as complex as the systems themselves! We don’t leave anything up to chance during shipping. When you choose Bullet Guard, you can expect your order to arrive in pristine condition, ready for installation.

Detail-Oriented Finishing

Finishing is just as important as the product design and fabrication. Our team of craftsmen makes sure the little details are all beautifully aligned and flawlessly executed. This includes frames and finishes, accessories like deal trays or package passers, and even door hardware. Plus, the Bullet Guard installation team takes exceptional care to ensure the finished product not only fits in the space, but looks beautiful, too. For instance, in the rare case that a product arrives on site and doesn’t fit in the space, we can make adjustments on the fly—something that’s difficult if not impossible for third-party installers who don’t always have the experience to safely modify ballistic materials.

These details can make the difference between a pleasant work environment and struggling to execute basic job functions. Ballistic systems should improve the work experience, not limit it, which is why we take such care to get everything exactly right.

Bullet Guard: Ballistic Partners Trusted by the AEC Community

If you’d like to learn more about our capabilities or have questions about a specific project, we’d love to hear from you. Send us a message through our contact form or give our West Sacramento office a call at 866.264.3049. We look forward to speaking with you!

Choosing the Right Ballistic Products for Your Physical Bank Barrier

Physical bank barriers are one of the most effective methods for not only protecting bank staff, but preventing armed incidents. In fact, the presence of physical barriers is often enough to deter a would-be bank robber. Although we hope you never have to put your ballistic bank barrier to the test, having a comprehensive system that completely separates the public from bank staff is the most reliable way to ensure their protection.

Designing a ballistically-rated bank barrier is often a complex endeavor. In this blog, our team breaks down the essentials: the different levels of protection, common bullet resistant materials, and the components you’ll need for your project—along with recommendations for components suitable for financial institutions. Keep reading to learn more.

Understand UL Levels of Protection

Bulletproof materials are rated on a scale of one to eight, depending on how resistant they are to different types of ballistic attacks. These ratings are based on the UL 752 Standard for Safety Bullet-Resisting Equipment, published by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

Broadly, the levels are broken out as follows:

• Level 1: Able to withstand three shots from a 9mm pistol, suitable for banks, gas stations, pharmacies, and retail
• Level 2: Able to withstand three shots from a .357 magnum pistol, suitable for corporate banks and financial institutions
• Level 3: Able to withstand three shots from a .44 magnum pistol, suitable for utilities, law enforcement, and government facilities
• Level 4: Able to withstand up to one shot from a .03-06 hunting rifle, suitable for federal government or military facilities
• Levels 5-8: able to withstand multiple shots from different hunting rifles, assault rifles, and machine guns, suitable for federal government and military facilities

The levels in the UL guide are considered the gold standard in ballistic protection. All of our products are tested in a third-party laboratory to ensure we meet or exceed the UL rating recommendations.

The Four Common Types of Bullet-Resistant Glass

You have four different types of bulletproof glass to choose from when designing your physical bank barrier.

• Acrylic glazing: For indoor applications, available in UL levels 1-2.
• Polycarbonate and laminated polycarbonate glazing: For indoor applications, available in UL levels 1-3.
• Glass-clad polycarbonate glazing: Indoor and outdoor applications, available in UL levels 1-8
• Insulated glass: Exterior applications, available in UL levels 1-8.

Choosing the Right Level of Protection for Your Project

Most banks and financial institutions need UL levels 1 or 2 in their facilities. However, UL rating is only one factor of many that you’ll need to consider. For example, acrylic glazing and polycarbonate materials offer comparable protection levels using materials that are of comparable thickness. The difference between the two comes down to clarity, capabilities, and price. Acrylic is just about crystal clear and about $10 less per square foot. Laminated polycarbonate has a very subtle purple-gray tint to it while being slightly more expensive. Laminated polycarbonate is also resistant to forced entry and severe weather.

Another common factor is spalling. When a bullet or other projectile collides with ballistic glass, the impact breaks some of the glass into particles, or spall. Acrylic ballistic glass produces spall; laminated polycarbonate does not. On no-spall glass, these airborne fragments develop on the threat side as well as the safe side of the glass. So while they might not be hit with a bullet, staff behind the counter might be affected by spall particles. No-spall glass only produces spall on the threat side.

If you’d like to speak with our team about which type of ballistically rated glass and UL rating is right for your facility, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to walk you through the different options.

Ballistically Rated Components for Your Physical Bank Barrier System

Components make your bank’s barrier system complete. Bullet Guard offers a comprehensive list of offerings so you can find the right item for your next project.

Transaction Windows

Your service is at the forefront, not distracting or muffled teller windows. Choose from a variety of crystal-clear windows with very little sound interference.

Deal Trays

Our deal trays make passing items between parties so easy, you’ll forget it’s ballistically-rated protection.

Package Passers

A standard 1” x 14” x 14” package passer makes transferring items simple and safe. We offer additional sizing based on your specific needs in UL levels 1-8.

Fiberglass and Countertops

Reinforce your service area with ballistically-rated countertops, fiberglass, and other components that make your system complete.

Bullet Guard Is Ready to Customize Your Security Solution

When your bank needs reliable, aesthetically pleasing ballistic protection, don’t want to contact Bullet Guard. We have over 40 years of experience and are proud to be the industry leader in bulletproof barrier systems. We have the know-how and skill to customize ballistic barriers for your historic buildings or add beautiful minimalist dividers to your new facility. 

Not sure exactly what you need? That’s what we’re here for. Our experienced team can help you choose the right item based on your unique needs. Send us a message to get started, or give us a call at 866.941.8695.

Fundamentals of Ballistic Barrier Design

When it comes to ensuring the safety of a company’s people and property, a ballistic barrier is an excellent security asset. Highly customizable for any scenario, they offer the desired level of protection without impeding employee workflow or sacrificing building aesthetics. Choosing the right design is imperative, as no two businesses will have the exact same needs. Let’s take a close look at how Bullet Guard’s security experts can help you find the right products for your upcoming ballistic barrier project.

General Considerations

There are a variety of factors to consider during the creation of a bulletproof building design, including:

• What type of building is the design for?
• What functions need to be performed in the bulletproofed areas?
• Are there any specific aesthetic requirements for the bulletproofing elements?

The answers to these questions, among others, help determine what type of bulletproofing material and design is appropriate for the building project. A warehouse has different needs than those of a healthcare facility, for example. A warehouse might focus on a check-in point or security station and access control, while a hospital might secure the ER and pharmacy with transaction windows that don’t interfere with communication.

Each building will come with unique security considerations, including accessories to accommodate daily tasks and interactions, access control, and visibility considerations such as line of sight and lighting.

Appropriate Materials and Building Aesthetics

Another important part of the design process involves selecting materials appropriate for the industry and the building’s aesthetics. With so many options available, safety doesn’t have to be compromised when taking appearance into consideration. Clear materials like acrylic and polycarbonate provide a sleek, modern look, bringing natural light in to create a more welcoming environment. Ballistic fiberglass panels can be incorporated into new construction or retrofits, making them a versatile solution adaptable to any type of wall covering.

Choosing the appropriate level of protection will also depend on the industry, type of building, and location. Most ballistic materials are rated using levels 1 – 8 of the UL 752 “Standard for Bullet-Resisting Equipment.” Broadly speaking, materials rated Levels 1 – 3 stop clusters of bullets fired from pistols, while those rated Levels 4 and above stop one or more bullets from various rifles as well as any pistols. Levels 1 -3 are the most common in commercial construction.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ballistic Design

Although each design is unique, there are still some common things to watch for. Some tips for effectively bulletproofing a commercial building include:

Considering bulletproofing during the design stage. Designing a building with bulletproofing in mind ensures the bulletproofing elements fit properly with the other structural and aesthetic building components and the bulletproofing is sufficient to provide the level of protection necessary for the given environment and application.

Budgeting for bulletproofing materials. Bullet-resistant glass costs more than regular glass because it is designed to do much more than regular glass. It is important to keep this in mind when establishing the budget to avoid running out of funds during the project. Contacting a ballistic expert during the planning stage can help you get an idea of what your project might cost.

Understanding the role of bulletproofing in various facilities. Different facilities face different levels of risk from different threats. For example, banks have a high chance of being targets of theft. Understanding the level of protection needed for a particular building helps architects create a bulletproof design that is effective and cost-efficient.

Bullet Guard: Your Ballistic Barrier Experts

A well-designed ballistic barrier plays an important role in strengthening the security of a property, offering physical protection and peace of mind to employees and employers alike. Creating the perfect design for your ballistic project takes careful planning and forethought, but with the help of Bullet Guard’s experts, it doesn’t have to be a headache. If you need assistance in planning the design of your ballistic barrier, contact us to request a quote today.