Polycarbonate Security Glazing | FSJ Tactical
Polycarbonate Windows & Polycarbonate Security Glazing
DefenseLite polycarbonate security glazing is about 250 times stronger than glass, nearly invisible, and installs over existing windows to resist break-ins, storms, blasts, and noise.
Polycarbonate is the material that makes modern retrofit security glazing possible. It's clear like glass, but instead of shattering on impact it flexes and absorbs energy. FSJ Tactical installs DefenseLite polycarbonate windows over existing glass to protect buildings against forced entry, storms, blasts, and more.
Why Polycarbonate Beats Glass
| Property | DefenseLite Polycarbonate | Acrylic | Glass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instrumented impact (0.125") | >47 ft·lbs | ≈2 ft·lbs | ≈0.5 ft·lbs |
| 0.5 lb drop-ball test | No break | 1.75 ft·lbs | 0.7 ft·lbs |
| Cold bend radius | 100x thickness | 180x thickness | Not possible |
| Weight at 0.125" | 0.78 lb/ft² | 0.75 lb/ft² | 1.60 lb/ft² |
| Light transmission (clear) | 86% | — | — |
DefenseLite polycarbonate is about 250 times stronger than glass and roughly half the weight. It stays tough in extreme cold (brittleness temperature −200°F) and heat (heat deflection 270°F at 264 psi).
Polycarbonate Security Glazing Options
DefenseLite Shield
A 1/4" polycarbonate shield mounted to exterior framing for access denial, with an anti-graffiti sacrificial layer (.220" to .375" range).
DefenseLite Pro
Thicker polycarbonate and heavier extrusions for ASTM F3561 Level 8 forced-entry resistance. Explore DefenseLite Pro.
BulletShield
0.5" to 2.5" polycarbonate and glass-clad composites rated to UL 752 for ballistic protection. Explore BulletShield.
DefenseLite CVS
A custom polycarbonate overlay system that reinforces curtain-wall glazing without altering the façade.
How DefenseLite Polycarbonate Windows Install
A proprietary vented aluminum extrusion mounts to the existing frame and creates a standoff between the shield and the primary glass. The shield is secured with security fasteners and structural VHB tape. Patented venting lets the air gap breathe, preventing condensation and pillowing. Framing is powder coated to match existing storefronts, and the thermoformable sheet is fabricated to fit each opening.
Benefits Beyond Security
- Storm protection: tested to Miami-Dade wind zone 5 (DefenseLite Pro)
- Blast mitigation: ASTM F1642 Class 10 psi / 90 psi-msec (DefenseLite Pro)
- Noise reduction: STC 41 / OITC 33 system rating
- Energy efficiency: improves insulation of existing glass; U-factor of 0.78 (summer) at 0.375"
- UV protection: reduces fading of interiors
- Safety glazing: ANSI Z97.1 and CPSC 16 CFR 1201 Category I and II
Certifications
DefenseLite polycarbonate sheet carries UL 972 burglary-resistant glazing, UL 94 flammability (V-0 at 0.394"), UL 746C outdoor suitability, ICC-ES ESR-2728, Florida Building Code HVHZ classification, and Miami-Dade NOA #15-1014.01.
Upgrade to polycarbonate without replacing your windows. Contact FSJ Tactical for an assessment and a custom quote.
Security Film + Glazing
See It Stop a Threat: FSJ Tactical Live Fire Demos
Request a live fire demonstration of our products on any existing drywall or glass.
Peace of Mind: Installed
Recent FSJ Tactical projects for school districts, cities, and counties. Over 500,000 square feet protected.
Installation available in every state
NATURAL DISASTERS
Security film and polycarbonate glazing hold glass in place against storms, debris, and blasts.
CRIME
Forced-entry and ballistic protection delays attackers and buys time for law enforcement to respond.
PEACE OF MIND
FSJ Tactical protects occupants and assets with an industry-leading warranty and nationwide installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is polycarbonate stronger than glass?
Yes. DefenseLite polycarbonate is rated about 250 times stronger than glass. In instrumented impact testing at 0.125", DefenseLite sheet absorbed more than 47 ft·lbs, compared with about 0.5 ft·lbs for glass and 2 ft·lbs for acrylic.
Does polycarbonate turn yellow?
DefenseLite uses UV-stabilized, UV-coated polycarbonate. Polycarbonate in DefenseLite systems is warranted against yellowing for at least seven years.
Does polycarbonate scratch easily?
DefenseLite Pro uses high-optic, AR- and UV-coated surfaces, and systems can include sacrificial surface films that take scratches and graffiti and can be replaced.
Are polycarbonate windows bulletproof?
Thin polycarbonate overlays are forced-entry products. Thicker polycarbonate and glass-clad polycarbonate, like BulletShield (0.5" to 2.5"), are tested to UL 752 for ballistic resistance.
What's the largest panel size?
The largest single DefenseLite sheet is 156" x 96". Larger openings and curtain walls are handled with engineered multi-panel systems.
Let's talk about your project...
Talk with the FSJ Tactical team about a site assessment. We'll walk your building, identify the glass and doors at highest risk, and recommend the DefenseLite security glazing level that fits your threats and your budget.
