What's the best glass option if I'm worried about break-ins on my ground floor?

Tempered glass or laminated glass are your best security options for ground floor windows, with laminated glass providing superior break-in resistance since it holds together even when shattered.

Laminated glass consists of two or more glass panes with a plastic interlayer (usually PVB) that keeps the glass intact when broken. Even if someone strikes it with a hammer, the glass will crack but remain in the frame, making it extremely difficult to create an opening large enough to climb through. This is the same technology used in car windshields and is considered the gold standard for security glazing.

Tempered glass is about four times stronger than regular glass and shatters into small, relatively harmless pieces when broken. While it's much harder to break than standard glass, once it does break, it creates an opening that could be used for entry. However, the noise and effort required often deters opportunistic break-ins.

For Ottawa homes, laminated glass can be combined with Low-E coatings and used in double or triple-pane configurations to maintain energy efficiency while adding security. This is particularly important given our harsh winters where you don't want to sacrifice thermal performance for security. Many homeowners choose laminated glass for their main floor windows and standard insulated glass for upper floors.

Consider pairing security glass with other measures like window locks, security film on existing windows, or motion-sensor lighting. The goal is creating multiple layers of deterrence. Quality window installation is also crucial - even the best security glass won't help if the window frame or installation is compromised.

For a look at your own ground floor windows, request a free quote through Ottawa Window Pros and ask an installer about laminated and security glazing options.

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