Commercial property owners face a variety of challenges, from attracting customers to maintaining a secure environment for employees and visitors. In today’s world, safety concerns are more important than ever for business owners, and one effective way to address these risks is to install bulletproof glass.
While it may sound like a measure reserved for banks or government buildings, choosing to install bulletproof glass has become an increasingly practical choice for a wide range of commercial properties. Beyond protecting against potential threats, it can also enhance customer confidence, safeguard employees, and even add value to your property.
In this blog, we’ll explore whether bulletproof glass is the right choice for your commercial space, what types are available, and how it can be seamlessly integrated into your storefront or interior design.
Should You Install Bulletproof Glass on Your Commercial Property?
Security concerns are a growing issue for commercial property owners. From small retail stores to large corporate offices, incidents like break-ins, armed robberies, and vandalism can result in significant financial losses and harm to your employees and customers. When you install bulletproof glass, you’re taking a proactive step toward reducing risk and enhancing safety.
There are several reasons why you might want to install bulletproof glass, including:
- Enhanced Protection: Bulletproof glass is designed to withstand high-velocity impacts, preventing bullets from penetrating the surface. This added layer of protection can deter criminal activity and provide peace of mind.
- Employee Safety: Employees are the backbone of any business. Bulletproof glass can create a safer working environment, particularly in areas where staff interact directly with the public, such as reception desks, cashier counters, and office entrances.
- Customer Confidence: Visitors and customers are more likely to feel safe in a commercial property that prioritizes security. Visible safety measures, such as bulletproof glass, can enhance your business’s reputation and trustworthiness.
- Property Value: Security enhancements can increase the overall value of your property. Buyers and tenants often seek properties with built-in safety features, and installing bulletproof glass is an investment in both protection and property value.
However, deciding whether to install bulletproof glass should involve assessing your specific security needs. High-crime areas or businesses handling cash, sensitive data, or valuable goods may benefit the most. For other properties, a thorough risk assessment can help determine whether the cost is justified in relation to potential threats.
Businesses That Benefit from Bulletproof Glass
Installing bulletproof glass on your commercial property can be a costly endeavor, but it is a worthwhile investment. While not every commercial property will benefit from the installation of bulletproof glass, several businesses should consider this investment. Some of the businesses that benefit most from the installation of bulletproof glass include:
- Pawn Shops
- Jewelry Stores
- Banks
- Check-Cashing Services
- Pharmacies
- Liquor Stores
While these commercial properties benefit the most from the addition of bulletproof glass, they aren’t the only ones that should consider it. Some places, such as schools and hospitals, may also want to consult with a glass professional to determine whether they should install bulletproof glass. Although it may seem like an overly costly investment, it is a great choice for many properties.
What Kind of Bulletproof Glass is Right for Your Property?
Not all bulletproof glass is created equal. Depending on the level of protection required and your budget, several options are available. Bulletproof glass, also known as ballistic glass, is typically constructed from multiple layers of laminated glass and polycarbonate materials. The number of layers and the thickness of the materials determine its level of resistance.
Some of the most common types of bulletproof glass include:
- Level I Glass: Provides basic protection and can stop low-velocity handgun rounds. This level is suitable for areas with minimal security risks, such as administrative offices.
- Level II Glass: Offers higher protection and can stop most handguns, including small-caliber rifles. This is ideal for retail stores or commercial properties that handle moderate amounts of cash or valuable items.
- Level III Glass: Designed to withstand high-caliber handguns and rifles. This is commonly used in banks, jewelry stores, and other high-risk facilities.
- Level IV Glass: Provides maximum protection against rifle rounds and high-velocity attacks. Typically used in military-grade facilities, government buildings, and high-security installations.
When deciding which type of bulletproof glass to install, it’s crucial to consult with a glass manufacturer. They can assess your property’s vulnerabilities, recommend the appropriate glass level, and ensure the installation complies with local building codes.
Incorporating Bulletproof Glass into Your Storefront Glass
Incorporating bulletproof glass into your storefront or commercial property doesn’t mean sacrificing style or accessibility. Modern bulletproof glass can be custom-fit to windows, doors, display cases, and interior partitions, maintaining a clear, professional appearance while providing protection.
Entry doors, reception areas, and cashier counters are critical points where glass can provide protection for employees and customers without obstructing visibility. Retail businesses can protect merchandise with reinforced display windows, while offices and medical facilities can use partitions to secure sensitive areas.
Options like tinted or reflective bulletproof glass also enhance privacy and reduce glare. Proper installation is essential, as strong glass must be paired with durable framing and secure mounting to provide maximum protection without compromising aesthetics. When you work with a trusted glass manufacturer for your new storefront glass, you can trust that security and aesthetic will blend seamlessly.
Install Bulletproof Glass from Valley Glass
When you install bulletproof glass on your commercial property, you’re doing everything in your power to keep your employees and customers safe. In many cases, it isn’t just something you should consider; it’s a non-negotiable step. If you’re looking for a reliable glass provider to install bulletproof glass on your property, turn to Valley Glass for support.
For over 60 years, our team has provided commercial properties across Northern Utah, Idaho Falls, and Boise with the highest quality glass. Whether bulletproof glass is right for your bank, jewelry store, or pawn shop, or it’s time to update your old, thin storefront glass, we have access to the highest quality glass in the industry.
When you’re ready to install bulletproof glass on your commercial property, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an installation appointment.
