This guide can help you figure out your needs and options for bullet-resistant windows and doors.
The two most common ballistic standards are put forth by UL and NIJ.
For this reason, most ballistic barrier providers focus on applying the UL standard, of which Levels 1 to 8 cover the ammunition types that would most likely be encountered.
A variety of options exist: fabric, glass, plastic, metal, or fiberglass. Looking at the application can help determine the best choice.
Ballistic materials will often show three different tiers of product verification, which have three different confidence levels. Ask the supplier how the product is verified.
Compliant: self-tested, analyzed, or evaluated by the manufacturer to meet a standard.
Certified: an independent test facility with proper authority to certify to a given standard is used to verify product performance
Listed: UL (a certified lab with renowned expertise) conducts the test.
Unless the product and the installation have BOTH been certified, it is extremely rare for an existing window frame or door jam to support ballistic impact. Structural reinforcement of the wall, frame, and jam is normally required for these installations.
Materials such as polycarbonate or protective films can be laminated to glass; however, the glass itself may stop the threat from passing through, but the entire window may break free
A window film, pane of bullet-resistant glass or certified ballistic door must be supported by a wall, frame, and jam that are also engineered to withstand a ballistic event.