Lexan is GE's brand name for a type of plastic called
"polycarbonate". This plastic is virtually unbreakable.
From the Lexan product sheet: "Lexan
resin’s exceptional impact strength and practical toughness make parts
virtually shatter-resistant, providing a high degree of safety and
durability in service in the toughest of environments."
In layman's terms Lexan will not break if you hit it with a
hammer.
It is clear, like glass. SSI recommends Lexan to be
inserted behind glass windows that are near doors. The
finished look is almost identical to the original. Invisible
security.
Lexan is a trademark of GE Plastics.
The cost of installing Lexan in a standard 2' x 3' window in a
door is about $150.
This is a little bit more that installing a double cylinder
deadbolt but far safer.
No.
Lexan is transparent, like glass. Some people
replace broken windows with Lexan. SSI does not recommend
this as Lexan can be scratched.
WHAT ABOUT SECURITY
FILM?
Security Film is an oxymoron. SSI does not recommend
using film for security.
So called "Security Film" is similar to thick Saran Wrap glued
to your window. The promise is for protection from Break and
Enters. As most customers eventually find out the film is far
from ideal.
Simply put, the film must be mounted to something other than
the glass for it to offer any form of security. Otherwise
when the glass falls out of the window so does the film - allowing the
burglar access to your home or business.
Film cannot be applied to thermal pane glass or the window
will crack.
Most companies in Toronto installing window film are not
following the manufactures guidelines for installation. This
is resulting in a high failure rate for window film.
For more
information on window film see the 3M website: www.3m.ca