When people talk about “unbreakable glass” in commercial buildings, what they really mean is a type of impact-resistant material that looks like traditional glass but performs much better under pressure. While no glass is truly 100% unbreakable, commercial-grade security glazing is specifically designed to withstand force, reduce breakage, and prevent entry during attempted burglaries or acts of vandalism.
Unbreakable glass is commonly used in storefronts, government buildings, schools, banks, and high-traffic businesses. It gives owners and occupants peace of mind without sacrificing visibility or design. But what exactly is it made of?
There’s No Single “Unbreakable” Glass
Commercial shatterproof glass is a category that includes a few different types of products, all with similar goals: keeping glass in place even when it’s under attack. These products include laminated glass, tempered glass, polycarbonate panels, and acrylic sheets. The right choice depends on what the building needs protection from—be it forced entry, flying debris, or even bullets.
Let’s take a closer look at the main materials and how they’re constructed.
Laminated Glass is The Most Common Choice
Laminated glass is the most widely used type of unbreakable glass in commercial buildings. It’s made by taking two or more layers of glass and bonding them together with a tough plastic interlayer, usually made from polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This sandwich is then heated and pressed together, forming a single pane that’s much stronger than ordinary glass.
When struck, the outer layers might crack—but the inner plastic layer holds everything in place. This makes it difficult to break through and helps prevent sharp shards from flying, which protects people inside.
Laminated glass is commonly used in:
- Storefront windows and doors
- Office buildings
- Schools
- Interior glass doors
- Drive-through windows
It’s also a favorite for areas prone to hurricanes or strong winds, as it can help prevent glass blowouts.
Tempered Glass is Strong, But Not Shatterproof
Tempered glass is another type of reinforced glass used in commercial applications. It’s made by heating regular glass to very high temperatures and then cooling it rapidly. This process makes it up to five times stronger than standard residential glass.
Tempered glass is technically not unbreakable—it will still shatter under enough force—but it breaks into small, pebble-like pieces instead of sharp, dangerous shards. That makes it safer for use in places like restaurants, gyms, and retail spaces where customer safety is a top concern.
Tempered glass is often used for:
- Interior glass walls
- Shower doors
- Entryway side panels
- Display cases
While it’s tough, it doesn’t offer the same intrusion resistance as laminated or polycarbonate glass.
Polycarbonate Panels are Lightweight and Virtually Unbreakable
For serious security applications, many commercial buildings use polycarbonate panels instead of traditional glass. These are made from a clear, plastic-like material that is durable and impact-resistant. In fact, polycarbonate is often used in riot shields, ATM screens, and bullet-resistant windows.
Polycarbonate weighs far less than glass but offers up to 250 times the impact resistance of standard glazing. It doesn’t crack easily, and even if it’s hit hard, it will flex rather than shatter.
Because it’s more resistant to vandalism and repeated force, polycarbonate is ideal for:
- Government buildings
- Correctional facilities
- High-risk retail stores
- Bank teller windows
It’s more expensive than laminated or tempered glass but offers long-term durability and peace of mind.
Acrylic Sheets are A Budget-Friendly Alternative
Acrylic, also known as plexiglass, is another plastic-based glazing option. It’s not as strong as polycarbonate, but it’s more affordable and still much more durable than regular glass. Acrylic is about 10 to 20 times more impact-resistant than standard glass, and it’s also lighter in weight.
You’ll often find acrylic used in:
- Indoor barriers
- Restaurant sneeze guards
- Store fixtures
- Display windows
While acrylic offers decent protection against bumps and light vandalism, it’s not the best choice if serious break-in resistance is needed.
Businesses Need to Combine Glass with Security Films
Some businesses also apply security window films to existing glass as a cost-effective way to increase resistance. These films are thin layers of polyester or plastic that hold the glass together if it cracks. While not a replacement for laminated or polycarbonate glazing, films can add an extra layer of protection and slow down break-ins.
Choosing the Right Option Is About Matching Your Needs
The best type of commercial unbreakable glass depends on your location, building use, and the kind of threats you want to guard against. If you need high-impact protection, laminated or polycarbonate glazing is usually your best bet. If you’re more focused on safety and affordability, tempered or acrylic glass may be enough.
Talk with a commercial glazing expert to assess your risks and get a recommendation that fits your business. Whether you’re guarding a retail shop, office, or warehouse, impact-resistant security glazing can be a smart investment in long-term safety.