Blast Window Systems

There are windows and then there are WINDOWS. Blast window systems fall into this latter category and are the top of the line choice for blast protection.

When we use the term “blast”, we are not talking about some euphemism or industry term. It refers to windows that can repel the forces that would be produced in a blast or something similar to it. Who needs this stuff? A classic example would be for areas where you have hurricanes and tornados or in homes that have very valuable items and crime is a problem. The military and other government agencies use them as a matter of course. Banks and financial institutions do so as well.


There are a number of different manufacturers for these systems. Each goes about their particular product design in a specific way. To the surprise of nobody, how they make their windows is considered a trade secret and they will not provide such information readily without a court order. Even then, one imagines they might become very forgetful! Regardless, we are left primarily with identifying some of the companies making these products. Let’s take a look.

Graham Architectural Products makes a variety of blast window systems for both commercial and residential purposes. They range from as large a sliding glass doors to as small and traditional as double hung wall windows. Graham windows are rated by the bullets they will stop cold. The windows include not only the module, but plans for installing on the particular structure. As with most companies in this field, the products are tailored more towards commercial buildings such as banks, but also can be used in residential.



U.S. Bullet Proofing is a leader in the field as well. The company specializes in steel frame windows that are bullet and blast resistant to varying levels. The systems start with the ability to stop pressures at 10 psi and move up from there. Many are designed to meet the force entry specifications of the DOD and other government agency security requirements. The windows come pre-assembled and with the necessary plans to allow for relatively painless installation. The company also specializes in safe rooms.

These represent only a few of the different types of blast window systems on the market. Other manufacturers of note include Krieger Specialty Products, Oldcastle Glass and Pittsburgh Corning. All are certainly worth a look.

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