Architects face heightened challenges when designing secure environments to protect people and assets from attack, theft, and the forces of Mother Nature. Not only are the right bullet- and storm-resistant products needed but they must be properly implemented into building designs for maximum benefit.

For more than 40 years, the ballistic protection professionals at Insulgard have worked with architects, contractors, and other AEC professionals to seamlessly incorporate advanced security solutions into building projects. By engaging with us early in the design process, architects can leverage our experience to ensure that every door, window, and piece of glass not only meets the most rigorous building code standards but also complements the architectural vision.

From bullet-resistant doors and windows to forced entry and storm-resistant products, we provide the guidance and innovative solutions architects need to create safe, resilient structures.

What Architects Need to Know About Ballistic Protection

Ballistic protection ratings are the measure by which a building material’s resistance to armed attacks is measured.

In the United States, the Underwriters Laboratories UL 752 rating is the most widely respected measure of a material’s resistance to ballistic assaults. There are eight levels within the UL 752 designation. The lower levels will withstand repeated attacks by small handguns, while the higher levels provide protection against high-powered assault rifles.

Insulgard’s Trusted Bullet-Resistant Products

All of Insulgard’s BULLETBLOCK products meet the strict testing requirements of the UL 752 designation. These products include:

  • Windows
  • Doors
  • Framing Storefront systems
  • Counterline systems
  • Package passers Transaction windows
  • Armored panels

The level of protection you choose for your design will depend upon a number of factors, including the building’s use, the number of occupants, and the severity of anticipated threats.

If you are designing a convenience store or pawn shop, for instance, a lower level of ballistic protection may be appropriate. For police stations, military bases, and other high-threat areas, you may want a design that addresses higher-powered and more coordinated assaults.

Meeting Forced Entry Threats

For some projects, architects must design premises that are secured from forced-entry attempts. Insulgard’s FORCEPROTECT product line includes a variety of glazing materials built to withstand impacts from blunt tools, cutting instruments, chemical stress, and fire.

If you are entrusted with designing a retail store, school, correctional facility, or other building where forced entry attempts are likely, we can help you make the most of our trusted and tested products.

Wind-Resistant Windows and Doors

If you are designing a storm shelter or other structure that must stand up to high winds and impacts from flying debris, our STORMDEFEND line of hurricane- and tornado-resistant windows, doors, and glazing products offer unparalleled protection from extreme weather.

These products meet the ICC 500-20/23 and FEMA361-21 requirements for wind and impact resistance. This means that they are compliant with the International Building Code from 2015 or later that requires all K-12 schools and critical emergency facilities in 250mph wind zones to be built with storm shelters that can withstand an EF-5 tornado.

Adding Value to Your Project

Architects throughout the world turn to us when they need trusted security products and valuable insights on how to implement them while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the project.

You can enlist our services – which include not only design but also specifications, fabrication, and installation – at the very inception of your project or at any stage throughout its life. However and whenever you need us, we will be here to provide the products and services that have made us a global leader in this field.

Maximizing Protection on All Fronts

Many projects require protection against two or more threats. We can help you design buildings that maximize protection against ballistic attacks, forced entry, and severe weather threats—all at the same time.

A well-crafted security design will also create synergy between Insulgard security products and other assets such as surveillance systems, guards, and access control measures like gates and turnstiles.

A Trusted Partner for Architects and Other Construction Professionals

Our team of security experts is here to help architects who need to incorporate ballistic protection and storm-resistant elements into their new-build facilities. Contact us today to learn more about the value we add to building projects or request a quote today.

Architects Projects