Solid Security Glass Block Windows & Walls For Commercial, Architectural and Institutional Projects

"We can't stop the thugs in this neighborhood from breaking out, shooting out, and vandalizing these expensive insulated glass windows we put in the school just last year," the maintenance supervisor said. "Do you have a solution that can stop our cycle of throwing good money after bad?" he said. Unfortunately this is not an unfamiliar concern with owners, managers, and maintenance supervisors of commercial buildings, schools, courthouses, and transit authorities.

How can you stop this cycle of spending, time loss, and frustration? Consider solid glass block window and walls. In this article you'll learn:

1. Why architects and building owners use high security glass masonry units
2. Where to use solid blocks and glass bricks.
3. Options and accessories in security blocks and bricks.

Why architects and building owners use high security glass masonry units

The cheapest way to put up a glass steel windows or wall in a commercial, architectural, or institutional project is with a standard single pane or insulated glass system constructed generally with a vinyl or aluminum framing system. However if your business or facility is located where graffiti, vandalism, bullets, bad weather, noise, or fire are a concern the lowest initial cost window or wall system may not be the answer for achieve the best life cycle costs. The Vistabrik line of solid security glass blocks from Pittsburgh Corning may be what you're searching for. Some reasons building owners have chosen this line of blocks include:

Bullet resistant- These blocks are UL tested and made of 3" thick glass to resist penetration from high impact weapons including 9 mm and .357 magnum bullets.

Reduce vandalism and graffiti - With "non-stick" glass surfaces graffiti is easier to remove and forcible entry is difficult since 8" x 8" x 3" blocks weigh 40 lbs. per square foot mortared together.

Fire resistant - When a higher level of building safety and fire resistance are desired without having to look at ugly wires in the glass, solid glass blocks are a preferred choice. Window panels can be designed with 45, 60, and 90 minute UL approved fire ratings.

Noise reduction - Buildings near train stations, large crowds, traffic, and machinery can be hard to lease and suffer from poor employee productivity. Solid glass bricks have a Sound Transmission Class of 53 and a noise reduction coefficient of .05 resulting in quieter interior spaces.