Glass Breaks Fast — XPEL Security Film Buys You Time
If you’ve got glass and you care about protecting what’s behind it — this is for you.
Let’s get straight to it:
Windows are usually the weakest part of your property. Whether it’s someone trying to break in, a storm throwing debris, or just an accident — glass breaks fast. Too fast.
But that’s where security film comes in.
It’s an invisible layer that holds everything together when glass gets hit — giving you more time, more safety, and more control. And it doesn’t make your windows ugly or feel like a prison. This stuff is clean, subtle, and strong as hell.
Here’s the full breakdown of the XPEL security lineup we install, what it actually does, and how it stacks up against the usual stuff people think they need (but probably don’t).
What Security Film Actually Does
We’re not talking about some cheap plastic here. This is a multi-layered, high-tensile film that turns fragile glass into a much tougher surface to break through.
It’s not bulletproof.
It’s not a superhero forcefield.
But here’s what it does do really well:
Holds glass together when it’s hit
Slows down intruders by making the glass harder to break through
Reduces injury from flying shards during accidents or break-ins
Blocks 99% of UV rays (even the clear versions)
Adds solar & glare control (on some models)
And here’s something most people don’t realize:
We always install security film with a hinge caulking system. That means we reinforce the edges of the glass with a special structural sealant that helps lock the film to the frame.
Why? Because when glass breaks under pressure, it wants to pop out. This seal keeps it locked in, giving the film even more strength when it matters most.
Don’t Want Film? Here’s What You’re Missing
Some people ask, “Why not just use better glass?” or “What about bars?” Great questions!
Lets compare the alternatives:
-
Pros
Holds together well
Cons
Expensive, permanent, no flexibility, limited solar options
-
Pros
Serious strength
Cons
Way over budget for most people, heavy, not retrofit-friendly, can’t always install it in in residential settings
-
Pros
Good visual deterrent
Cons
Kills the vibe, blocks light, looks industrial
Window film is the best balance between security, style, function, and cost:
Film Stats Legend:
IR Rejection:
Blocks the sun’s heat you feel.
Higher % = cooler rooms.
TSER (Total Solar Energy Rejected):
Overall solar protection — heat, light & UV.
Higher % = better climate control.
Glare Reduction:
Cuts down harsh light and screen glare.
Higher % = more comfort, easier on the eyes.
UV Protection:
Blocks the rays that fade furniture & damage skin.
Most films = 99%+ UV blocked.
Tensile Strength:
Measures how much force the film can take before it stretches or tears.
Higher = stronger, tougher film.
Puncture Strength:
Shows how resistant the film is to being pierced.
Higher = harder to stab or break through.
Break Strength:
Measures the amount of force required to break the film.
Higher = better protection against impact.
Peel Strength:
Tells you how well the film sticks to the glass.
Higher = better bonding, stronger hold after impact.
The XPEL Security Film Lineup — What Each One’s Built For
Tier 1 : 14 Mil - Maximum Protection
This one’s built for heavy impact. It’s thicker, stronger, and made to hold up under serious force — still clear, still clean.
Best for: Glass doors, vulnerable access points, high-traffic storefronts, or any place that needs more time in the event of a break-in.
The Line Up:
Security Clear 14 Mil
Visible Light Transmitted: 88%
UV Rejection: 99%
Glare Reduction: 2%
U Factor: 1.02
Puncture Strength: 230 lbs
Tensile Strength: 30,000 lbs/in²
Tier 2: 8 Mil – Medium Security
This is your base layer of protection — clear, low-profile, and solid. It reinforces the glass and holds everything together on impact. Not as thick as the 14 Mil, but it comes in solar performance options.
Best for: Residential or light commercial glass where you want solid impact protection without going overboard.
The Line Up:
Security Clear 8 Mil
Visible Light Transmitted: 89%
UV Rejection: 99%
Glare Reduction: 1%
Energy Absorbed: 13%
U Factor: 1.03
Puncture Strength: 141 lbs
Tensile Strength: 30,000 lbs/in²
Use it for: Homes, street-level glass, schools, or retail spaces where looks matter but strength matters more.
Security 8 Mil Clear View 70
Visible Light Transmitted: 73% / 65%
Infrared Heat Rejected: 94%
UV Rejection: 99%
Glare Reduction: 20%
U Factor: 1.01 / 0.47
Puncture Strength: 141 lbs
TSER: 51% / 49%
This one gives you the same strength plus solar performance. Super high heat rejection, all while keeping your windows looking clear.
Use it for: Homes or buildings that get blasted with sun and need heat control + impact resistance without the tint.
Security 8 Mil Neutral 35
Visible Light Transmitted: 38% / 35%
Glare Reduction: 58% / 57%
UV Rejection: 99%
Energy Absorbed: 52% / 54%
U Factor: 1.05 / 0.48
Puncture Strength: 141 lbs
A more tinted look that brings in glare reduction and energy savings — while still reinforcing the glass.
Use it for: Offices, commercial spaces, or homes where you want a bit of tint, solar savings, and glass that fights back.
Tier 3: 7 Mil Clear Exterior – Add-On Protection That Reinforces from the Outside
Sometimes one layer isn’t enough. Our 7 Mil Clear Exterior Security Film is a go-to add-on when a client wants to beef up glass protection even more — especially on hard-to-access windows, skylights, or areas that can’t be filmed from the inside.
It uses the same performance specs as the 8 Mil Clear — strong tensile strength, high puncture resistance, 99% UV rejection — but it’s designed to go on the outside of the glass.
We usually install this as:
An added layer over existing interior security film for dual-side strength
A retrofit option when interior access is limited
Extra protection on vulnerable glass like skylights or rooftop windows
Why it works:
Holds glass together on impact
Slows down forced entry
Shields against accidents and weather
Adds security without blocking views or changing the look of your glass
And just like all our security installs — it includes our hinge caulking system to lock everything in place and maximize hold under stress.
Exterior film. Interior peace of mind.
Ask us if your windows qualify for a dual-layer setup.
Let’s Make Your Windows Work for You!
Security film is for people who want their glass to actually do something. To help hold the line. To protect the people behind it. To keep your space cool and your stuff safe.
And at Film Bros, we don’t skip corners.
Every install includes hinge caulking to give that film the strength it needs at the frame. If you’re adding security film without it — it’s like wearing a helmet that isn’t strapped in.
Want to secure your windows, keep your look clean, and get peace of mind without ripping anything out?
Let’s do it right.
Book a free consult and we’ll walk you through the best option for your space.
Talk soon,
Josh Spencer - Brand and Sales Manager
Film Bros | Architectural Film Experts
