Written By: Brad Campbell | May 23, 2024
The commercial window security industry is constantly evolving, with new materials and technologies being tested and implemented all the time, and new best practices and approaches to comprehensive security being adopted.
As such, there are always new security trends shaping the industry. Staying on top of these security trends ensures you know what the latest, most advanced options are when it comes to securing your commercial property against threats like forced entry, burglary, smash-and-grab theft, rioting and looting, vandalism, active threats, and more.
One of the most notable trends in commercial window security is the use of advanced glazing technologies.
Traditional annealed glass, tempered glass, and even older types of security glass are rapidly being replaced by highly advanced glazing technologies, such as Riot Glass and ArmorPlast.
Such glazing materials use specific formulations of security laminates, polycarbonates, acrylics, and other plastics that offer superior resistance to forced entry and ballistic threats.
These advanced glazing materials provide a higher level of security without compromising on transparency or aesthetics. They also have a longer lifespan in high-stress environments, outperforming and outlasting comparable solutions.
While traditional commercial window security solutions, such as gates and shutters, remain an effective way to provide after-hours protection against forced entry and burglary, business and building owners are increasingly looking for always-there protection.
Retrofit security glazing solutions can be installed right over many existing glass surfaces, providing 24/7 protection that can be used on its own or in tandem with other forms of after-hours window protection, like roll-down security shutters.
These types of always-there solutions not only fulfill security requirements and give property and business owners peace of mind, but also mitigate potential issues that some specialty brands, landlords, or cities might have with more visible window security technologies.
In certain parts of the country, property owners are implementing hurricane windows as alternatives to hurricane shutters and storm panels.
Hurricane windows consist of specialized security glazing that has been tested and certified for use in hurricane zones, including Miami-Dade county.
These impact-resistant storm windows provide round-the-clock protection against storm damage and other impact-related threats.
Businesses are increasingly integrating their window security systems with their overall security infrastructure, taking a more comprehensive approach to commercial building security.
This includes connecting security glazing with things like glass break alarms, attaching access control systems to glass doors, and installing more surveillance cameras near key potential entry points.
By integrating these systems, businesses and commercial facilities can create a more robust security network that can detect and mitigate a wide range of security threats more effectively.
The rise of smart technology has also influenced commercial window security.
Smart glass, for example, can change transparency levels based on the environment, providing both security and privacy benefits.
Additionally, smart sensors can detect impacts and break-in attempts, triggering alarms and alerting security personnel.
Energy efficiency is another key consideration that’s trending in commercial window security.
Many security glazing options can also provide energy efficiency benefits, helping businesses reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy costs.
This window security trend aligns with the growing focus on sustainability in commercial buildings.
In commercial buildings with lots of large commercial glass windows and doors, protecting people and furnishings from harmful UV rays is a major concern.
That’s why more and more building owners and managers are looking for security glazing that also provides high levels of UV protection.
Fortunately, many of the advanced security glazing technologies that are trending in the security industry have specialized coatings that block out up to 99.9% of these damaging UV rays.
Businesses are increasingly choosing security solutions that not only provide physical protection, but also enhance the aesthetics of their buildings.
Manufacturers are responding to this trend by offering customizable security glazing options that blend seamlessly with the building's design, ensuring security without compromising on style.
Many types of security glass can also be combined with other glazing solutions, such as tinted or decorative window films, to improve the facades of buildings, potentially bringing older architectural styles into line with the more modern structures around them.
With the advent of smart technology, businesses and facilities can now monitor and control their security systems remotely.
This allows for real-time monitoring and management of security features, like access control and alarm systems, enhancing overall security and providing peace of mind to business owners and facility managers.
Finally, there is a growing emphasis on training employees and building occupants on security protocols and the importance of security measures, including security glazing.
By educating individuals about security risks and best practices, as well as the strengths and limitations of their buildings’ security glazing and other security features, businesses can create a culture of security that increases the overall effectiveness of their security measures.
Commercial window security is no longer just about protecting windows against impacts and related threats.
While impact and forced entry resistance are still central focuses when it comes to window security, the latest security trends in the industry encompass everything from the implementation of advanced glazing materials for active threat protection, to expanded training and awareness protocols regarding commercial security measures.
By staying informed about the latest commercial window security trends, business owners and facility managers can protect people and property against various threats, while also improving the overall performance and appeal of their properties.
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