Safety FAQ
Bullet-Resistant Film: Your Questions Answered
How it works, what glass it needs, and how to get it installed.
How Bullet-Resistant Film Works
+What is bullet-resistant film?
It is a multi-layer security film system that is installed on your existing glass. We install the C-Bond Ballistic Resistant System (BRS), made by C-Bond Systems and its Patriot Glass Solutions division in Houston.
+How does it stop a threat?
First, C-Bond's patented nanotechnology fluid is sprayed on the glass to strengthen it. Then multiple layers of security film are applied, and a structural adhesive anchors the film to the window frame. When the glass is hit, it holds together in the frame instead of falling out — slowing down anyone trying to get in.
+Does it make glass completely stop bullets?
No film makes glass impossible to penetrate. Film systems are rated to resist specific threats when installed on the right glass. The C-Bond BRS system has been tested to NIJ Level I (.22 and .38 caliber) on 3/8" glass, and NIJ Level II & IIA (9mm and .357), UL 752 and AK-47/AR-15 on 1/2" glass — some results are tests, others are expected to pass per C-Bond.
+What else does it protect against?
The same systems are tested for forced entry (UL 972), blast mitigation (GSA Level 2), windborne debris from storms (ASTM E1886/E1996 Large Missile, Level C) and safety glazing (CPSC 16 CFR 1201 Cat. II, ANSI Z97.1).
+Will people notice it?
The film is optically clear, so your windows keep their view and natural light.
What Glass It Needs
+What kind of glass works?
Annealed or tempered glass, single-pane or insulated units. Forced-entry (UL 972) protection needs glass at least 1/4" (6 mm) thick.
+How thick must the glass be for ballistic protection?
Ballistic ratings depend on glass thickness: at least 3/8" for NIJ Level I, and 1/2" or thicker for NIJ Level II/IIA and higher threats. Thinner glass can still get safety, forced-entry or blast film.
+What about my window frames?
Because the film is anchored to the frame, the frame matters too. We inspect frames and glazing during the site visit, and for curtain-wall systems we check that the frame manufacturer's warranty won't be affected.
+What if my glass isn't thick enough?
We'll tell you honestly what your glass can support and recommend the best option — such as 3M Safety & Security Film or a forced-entry system — that fits your existing windows and budget.
Getting It Installed
+How do I start?
Request a free estimate or call us. We'll ask about your building, your glass and what you want to protect against.
+What happens at the site visit?
We measure the glass, check its type and thickness, and look at the frames. For larger projects we can install a sample window so you can see the result before we do the rest.
+How long does installation take?
It depends on the number and size of windows. Film can't be installed when the glass is wet or the temperature is outside the manufacturer's limits, so we schedule around the weather.
+Is there a warranty?
C-Bond's manufacturer warranty covers replacing film that fails within 10 years of installation.
+How do I clean it?
Use only cleaners approved by the manufacturer — we'll give you care and cleaning instructions when the job is done.
+Where do you install?
Across Harris and Montgomery County — Houston, The Woodlands, Conroe, Magnolia, Spring, Cypress, Tomball, Katy and nearby cities — for schools, businesses, government buildings and homes.