For San Francisco’s affluent, doors must accomplish two things: keep unwanted people out while blending seamlessly with the surrounding architecture. One local manufacturer is building door systems that do both and more.
The latest crime figures for San Francisco show a downtrend, but authorities were quick to admit that the trend may not last long-term. For clients of Panda Windows & Doors—whose clientele includes the who’s who in San Francisco and Los Angeles—peace of mind comes from something more tangible, like a meticulously designed door system.
Panda specializes in fabricating doors not commonly found in most households: sliding doors and walls and large pivot doors reminiscent of entrances to ancient temples. While most observers focus on the aesthetic aspects of these striking fixtures, more discerning patrons are scrutinizing their effectiveness in keeping unwanted individuals out. “People see our products as indulgence, but they’re not just there as statement pieces; these custom doors serve an important, life-saving purpose.”
When discussing glass material for security purposes, tempered glass is often pitched as the ideal option. Panda, however, explains that those whose primary concern is security should consider a far more durable material: laminated glass.
Laminated glass is made by bonding two or more glass panels with a layer of plastic. Typically, polyvinyl butyral, or PVB, is sandwiched between two glass panels to create the material. "This type of glass has one or more polymer interlayers, making it extremely strong and resistant to damage, whereas tempered glass is mostly designed to break safely into small pieces," Panda explained in one post.
In addition to being tougher than other glass types, laminated glass offers superb insulation and soundproofing. It can also be customized with a tint or kept clear for an unfiltered view of the property's environs.
While laminated glass is tougher than its counterparts, it is also heavier—often considered its primary drawback. For Panda, a cost-effective workaround is to choose an equally tough frame, and one of its go-to materials is steel.
According to the company, steel remains unbeaten in terms of durability, cost, and customizability. "If security is a concern, you cannot go wrong with steel. It's tough, and in the hands of our expert craftsmen, can be molded into sophisticated pieces like thermally broken profiles."
Of course, having a door made from tough material is essential, but it's only one aspect of a secure door system. Panda also incorporates advanced locking mechanisms and sensors into its products.
For locks, Panda's engineers recommend multi-lock systems, which, as the name suggests, secure the door at three—or more—points along the frame, all operated by a single key. These systems can be used with various materials, including wood and metal, making them Panda's go-to option for its sliding door line.
Sensors add another layer of security, and Panda offers homeowners a range of options when customizing their door systems. In addition to traditional motion and biometric sensors, smart sensors that monitor more than just movement can be integrated into custom door designs.
Panda advises homeowners concerned about privacy and security to view doors not just as individual fixtures but as part of a complete solution. "Any large home is a natural target for break-ins, and if you're planning to build such a home, a well-thought-out door system should be part and parcel of your investment."
This content is provided in partnership with Panda Windows & Doors and is intended for informational purposes only. The views, opinions, and advice expressed in this article are solely those of Panda Windows & Doors and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of any other individual, organization, or entity.
