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Laminated Window Glass Basics
Our laminated glass for windows page focuses on replacement window applications. Essentially, laminated glass is a type of safety glass made by bonding two or more layers of glass with a durable plastic interlayer, typically polyvinyl butyral (PVB).
When broken, the interlayer holds the glass fragments together, reducing the risk of injury and maintaining the window’s integrity. It also improves sound insulation and provides added protection against impact, forced entry, and UV radiation. We'll discuss the advantages, the disadvantages, costs, and provide an entire section on consumer questions and answers.
Bottom Line: Laminated glass is mainly used for both impact windows and doors as a way to prevent injury and from
(Always Get 3 to 4 Local Price Quotes - And My Personal Advice)
Dane - Site Editor - Publish Date: August 11, 2025
Last Update: February 3, 2026
Page Sections
- Laminated Window Glass Basics
- Advantages And Options
- Disadvantages Of Laminated Glass
- Laminated Glass For Windows Q And A
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dane@replacementwindowsreviews.co
Advantages And Options
Disadvantages Of Laminated Glass
The main disav
Laminated Windows Cost
What do laminated windows cost? On average, expect to pay $150 per window for this upgrade.
Thanks for your website. It provides a lot of great information, and I want to send you my bids and questions to keep info current and help others. I want to explore two questions and ask your opinion on the bids I have received. First is, install yourself or pay an installer? I am a fairly skilled DIYer, am BPI certified and have built numerous EnergyStar 3rd-party tested homes, so I am not afraid to install replacement windows even though I have not done it before. Any good reason I should not install myself?
Second is, laminated glass. I have not seen it discussed much on your site, and it seems a really valuable option. Doesn’t it make your house break-in resistant, and also reduce noise transmisstion? Are there reasons you don’t recommend it? My quotes on that upgrade had a pretty wide spread.
My quotes, first from companies that will only sell if they do the installation. Got a quote on Vytek Potomac with Laminated Glass for 10 windows for $16,000 installed. Soft-Lite Classic Plus with Laminated Glass for 10 windows for $11,000 installed. Got a quote on Provia Endure NOT laminated glass, for $8,500 installed.
My quotes on windows I can install myself were:
Simonton 5500 10 with Laminated Glass not installed: $5,400
Simonton 5500 10 NOT Laminated Glass not installed, $3,800
Okna 500 series 10 with Laminated Glass not installed $6,500
Okna 500 Series 10 NOT Laminated Glass, not installed,$4,000
So should I install myself or take one of the installation deals? Should I go with laminated glass or do you think not worth the upcharge? I like the Okna 500 windows more than the Simonton 5500, but the laminate upcharge is so much more, $250 each, vs Simontons’ $160 per window upcharge. If I install myself, am I going to like the Okna 500 laminated windows $1,100 more than the Simonton 5500? Thanks!
Manna - Homeowner - from 2022
[Website Editor Reply]
Hi there, so it sounds like you know your stuff in terms of installing. Certainly it wouldn't hurt to watch a few YouTube videos on tips, tricks, advise on installing -- but if you know how to do it, feel confident, I say do it. I will also say this: know installer cares more about a proper installation than you do on your own house!
Laminated glass is not discussed all that much because most homeowners can't really afford (or don't think it's necessary) to spend an extra $150 per window for this upgrade...but yes, it does make the windows much safer in terms of getting through them and yes it does block some noise frequencies from entering. If it's worth it to you, then absolutely, go for it. It's a nice feature to have.
Of the DIY options, which it sounds like is the call, I think the Okna with laminated glass for $6500 is the best long term value option that I see on the board. still have a look at our proVia windows reviews in order to suss out what other consumers think.
All good windows at the top, but I would probably say the ProVia Endure, followed by the Soft-Lite Classic Plus offer the best values. I'm assuming the ProVia Endure with laminated glass would be roughly equivalent ot the Soft-Lite Classic Plus price...
Dane - Website Editor - from 2022
Silicon Valley Window Replacement
Hi, I'm from Silicon Valley (mild climate). My house has 35-yr old aluminum windows. The exterior is stucco with 2x6 wood trim around the windows. I'm looking to replace 5-7 bedroom windows for sound reduction. Around here, Milgard is the default that every company sells so I have been researching Trinsic. But I'm open to other suggestions. I have some questions:
1. If I specify heavy glass such as laminated + 1/8" or laminated + 3/16", will the weight cause issues with vinyl frames?
2. With thicker glass, do the IGU and frame become deeper?
3. I'm torn between new construction vs replacement. The exterior trim around my windows can be pulled off to install new construction, but can this process cause damage? The top trim has Z-flashing.
4. With replacement windows, how often do they need to be re-caulked? My house is 2 stories so I can't do that myself. Replacement windows seem like a hack job to me, but since you are more experienced, what is your take? Maybe I'm worried over nothing
Tony - Homeowner - from 2021
[Site Editor's Answer]
Tony, see my answers below.
1. Laminated glass shouldn't put much of a strain on a well made vinyl window, unless the frame width is particularly large, then you might want to reconsider. It's more with triple pane glass on a wide frame with a just okay vinyl frame. Triple Pane Windows Cost
2. Typically not, although if you are looking for sound reduction, a deeper frame is the best way to increase the effectiveness of noise abatement (i.e. the distance between the two panes of glass).
3. NC v R is a tricky one. I can at least give you the pros and cons [taken out to avoid content duplication -- contact us for this answer...]
4. If they are properly caulked maybe every ten years -- it certainly can't hurt to bring someone in every ten years who can do a quick re-caulk on them, especially on the 2nd floor. Are they a hack job, not really because when they are done properly, the windows are sealed and squared...they are providing a more comfortable temperature in the room and will save you money on your heating and cooling (not much, but...) NC with stucco is a cumbersome process too, although I take your point about cutting out the windows and sticking new windows in the hole...
Dane - Site Editor - from 2021
Amerimax Sound Pack
Hello, I have a sound problem on one side of the house. So I am looking to replace 4 windows in that area. I'm also looking replace 1 window on the hot side of the house. I have a company proposing to replace with 5 double hung windows with Ameriglas Sound Pack. at $1100/window, retrofit not full replacement. (2x 42by54 2x 42x43 1x36x54). I can't seem to find much on the "Sound Pack"....?? Is it worth $1100 per window.
Grace - Homeowner - from 2020
[Website Editor Reply]
Grace, Ameriglas Sound Pack is probably the glass option and not the actual window brand. Could the window brand be Amerimax? They offer an Ameriglass e2 glass package.
Sound glass could/should up the cost by $100 to $150 per window. Generally, this is about what I'd expect. Most laminated glass bumps up the cost by $100 a window. Let's say it's $200 a window, which would mean you are paying $900 a window for a vinyl window. I would say paying $900 for an Amerimax window is too much.
If this were my project, I would collect more bids, which is how to verify whether or not the initial bid is too high. Two or three bids should provide you with enough information to make this judgement. The other bids also give you some leverage if you want to go back to the first bid and try to negotiate the price down.
Tim - Site Editor - from 2020
[Graces' Reply]
Thanks so much for the advice. Yes. It is supposed to be an Amerimax window. I don't see anything on their website about something called "sound pack" or any option that emphasizes managing noise. The salesman indicated it would be 2 panes of glass with different thicknesses... rather than a triple pane window.
I cannot get any Amerimax specs from this company, the salesman has been very distant in the whole event. (he was referred to me.) So I'm pulling back the order while within the 3 day rescission period. Is the Ameriglass e2 a special option where the panes are 2 different thickness? Triple Pane Windows Cost
Do you know of any windows/brands that excel in managing noise? (The only reason I'm replacing any windows on this "new" house is because of a huge noise issue that affects my sleep every night.) I'm willing to pay for what I want... but only if it has great reviews on achieving this goal.
Grace - Homeowner - from 2020
[Website Editor Reply]
Grace, sound control series are pricey. The different thicknesses is definitely one way to block different noise frequencies from entering the home. The biggest factor is the space or gap between the two panes. The bigger the space, the more sound is knocked down. Unfortunately, these can be very pricey.
The Milgard Quiet Line is one option as well as the Amsco Serenity series. Indow out of Oregon also makes a noise reduction storm window that goes over your existing window. Getting a high quality double pane vinyl window is usually the best way to knock down noise. I think you are on the right track, but that does seem like a high price to pay for a vinyl window with specialty glass.
Tim - Site Editor - from 2020
Gulf Texas Replacement Windows
Good morning, my name is Jeff and I live in Houston, TX. I need to replace three 84x58 picture windows in my living room. The window is faced to gulf court, so privacy and strength is a concern. Could you please recommend a window type to me? I am seeking for mid range windows. If you could, please give me price information also. Thank you so much.
Jeff - Homeowner - from 2016
[Site Editor's Response]
Hi Jeff, it sounds like you are looking for a vinyl impact window, although an aluminum clad window might be an option as well in the hot Houston heat (aluminum is very strong, but is poor in terms of energy efficiency). I would get a bid from Don Young in Houston (they make excellent aluminum window and mid range vinyl windows) and ask them if they feel that a laminated or tempered glass is sufficient in terms in being able to withstand a golf ball. I know Simonton is in Texas and they make a decent vinyl window, their 9800 Impressions window or their 5500 Reflections series with an upgrade to the laminated glass and perhaps a meeting rail reinforcement would go a long way to really creating a strong and durable window, without breaking the bank.
Dane - Website Editor - from 2016
Laminated Glass For Windows
My current casement wood window has a Sash width of 17 1/2" and a height of 46". The visible glass width is 14 inch on this sash. I am thinking of replacing it with Simonton 9800 casement window with a sash of 171/2" but since vinyl frames are thicker than wooden frames what would be my visible glass width if I get a Simonton 9800 casement with 171/2" sash? Can u please advise.
Ravi - Homeowner - from 2015
[Site Editor's Response]
Ravi, if you did a retrofit installation you would probably lose 1" to 1.5" on each side for the thicker frame, which is quite a bit for such a small window. If you are completely removing the old window and replacing it with the 9800, you will probably lose .5 to 1 due to the thicker vinyl frame - it will look better than the retrofit as well. (The only reason you would have to do the retrofit is if taking out the original wood window would require lots of work to the exterior surround that would bump up the cost to the point of not making it worth the expense.
So, long answer short, I would say you would lose about an inch of glass space on the sides and bottom and 1/2 inch on the sash top...
Dane - Site Editor - from 2015
Simonton Impressions Series vs PGT Windows
I'm trying to compare Simonton 9800 Impressions and the PGT 5500 series. I don't need the Hurricane Compliant window. When I had called PGT, they told me they had come out with a newer frame which is their 5500 series. They told me one can get that window frame in Impact or non impact glass. So if I were to choose the standard non impact double strength glass which would be a better product PGT or Simonton 9800? Thanks.
Ravi - Homeowner - from 2015
[Site Editor's Response]
I would say the PGT is better. Who is doing the install? This could tip the balance one way of the other. Assuming the same person is installing the windows, I was pretty impressed with that PGT 5500 window, at least from what I saw on the website. I haven't actually seen one in person, however I have used their windows in the past and for the most part, I've always found them to be very solid.
Tim - Site Editor - from 2015
Ravi's Response
Dane, Thank you for the info. I am removing the old window and replacing them with brand new Simonton 9800. From current 14 inch width visible glass if 9800 gives me 13 inch width visible glass I can live with it.
How does Simonton 9800 compare to PGT 5500 series windows? I am debating between which one to choose Smonton or PGT? Any thoughts or suggestions between these two brands. Thanks.
Ravi- Homeowner - from 2015
[Site Editor's Response]
Ravi, both the Simonton 9800 Series and the PGT 5500 series are very solid vinyl windows. Are you looking specifically for an impact window, which is what the 5500 series is - part of the WinGuard series from PGT, I believe. I really like PGT, well priced (depending on who you buy from) and quite well made. I would say that PGT would get the nod over Simonton.
However, I could see the 9800 series being less expensive than the 5500 series and assuming you don't need a hurricane compliant window, the 9800 should be an excellent choice for most residential homes. The 9800 also comes in a number of different styles and options, which I like. If you do need a hurricane compliant window, the 9800 can be upgraded with an aluminum sill reinforcement and laminated glass and it should pass code. By the time you make these upgrades though, the 5500 might be cheaper.
I've just thrown out a lot of variables, I know, I apologize. All in all, two very good vinyl windows from two solid companies in the industry.
Dane - Site Editor - from 2015
Anlin Del Mar vs Catalina
I am looking at Anlin Coronado / Catalina - their Del Mar is even 100% more. (The Marvin quote was nearly 50% more) Both are dual pane, may be the people here are rich and can afford, except few old people like us! How can I be sure that when they say they are giving me certain laminated glass options and Ar gas, I am getting that. Do you have any idea to make sure of this? Thx again.
Gobi - Homeowner - from 2015
[Site Editor's Response]
That does not surprise me that the Marvin replacement window is 50% more, it's a much better window. However, you should be just fine with a good vinyl window. The Anlin Catalina is their entry level vinyl window, but it's decent for a project on a strict budget, as long as you get quality installation, you should be just fine with that window.
The Anlin Coronado is a better window and would offer better long term value - I would like to see you stretch your budget and get the window that will provide better value in the long term. Tell the rep that you want the Coronado, but explain that it is a bit out of your price range and see what they can do on price. They may suggest some hardware tweaks or features that aren't important to you that can drive the per window cost down.
Take a look at this page for some additional budget recommendations.
As far as the laminated glass goes, there will usually be a small label on the glass, especially if the company sells glass packages with "names" - they often have unique names for their different upgrades. Ask the person selling you the window to point out where on the glass you can confirm that you are getting what you are paying for.
No quality manufacturer or dealer is going to pull a bait and switch - I suppose that is where using good contractors - dealer - distributor comes into play. Anlin is a quality manufacturer, you should be in good hands with them.
Dane - Site Editor - from 2015
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