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Archives July 2025

7 ways to maximize space with Bifold Door

7 Ways to Maximize Space Using Folding Doors (Without Compromising Style)

Home / 2025 / July

Struggling with limited space, poor airflow, or rigid room layouts? Folding Doors might be the smart solution you didn’t know you needed. Designed to open up tight spaces, connect environments, or divide areas with elegance, these doors offer flexibility without compromising style. 

In this article, we’ll explore 7 practical and stylish ways to use Folding Doors to transform your space. Whether you’re redesigning a small apartment, upgrading a commercial setting, or simply looking for a modern touch, these ideas will help you maximize every inch, beautifully. 

You can maximize the space in your home by using elements such as Bifold Doors.

Maximize Your Space with Accordion Doors 

In modern housing, space is one of the most important points to consider. With smaller lots, if there’s something that takes up a few yards of your house, you could easily have cramped quarters. 

But what happens here? Many of the solutions that save that space aren’t aesthetically pleasing- something that generates debate in many parts of the United States of America. 

But what about Folding Doors or accordion doors? They’re glass and aluminum solutions that save space and give homes a very luxurious style. Here’s 7 reasons why they can help you save space. 

Save Valuable Floor Space with Smart Folding Designs 

Traditional swing doors require clearance to open and close, often wasting precious square footage in compact environments. Folding Doors, on the other hand, operate on a track system that allows panels to stack neatly to one side, eliminating the arc of a swinging door. 

This makes them the ideal trend for small apartments, closets, pantries, or transitional spaces where every inch counts. Bi-folding instead of swinging, these doors create room for furniture, movement, and functionality, without sacrificing aesthetics. 

Create Flexible Room Dividers Without Building Walls 

One of the standout advantages of Folding Doors is their ability to dynamically divide spaces without permanent construction. Whether you want to separate a home office from the living room, a dining area from the kitchen, or a meeting space in a commercial setting, Folding Doors give you control over your layout. 

Unlike fixed walls or sliding doors, bi-folding systems can fully open or partially close, adapting the environment to your needs. This flexibility not only improves space functionality, but it also fosters an open-concept feeling when desired, and privacy when needed. 

Connect Indoor and Outdoor Spaces with a Seamless Flow 

Folding Doors are a game-changer when it comes to blending interior and exterior environments. With the ability to fully retract and open wide, they create an expansive, uninterrupted passage between your living room, patio, garden, or balcony. 

This not only enhances natural light and ventilation but also extends your living space visually and functionally making it ideal for entertaining or simply enjoying a greater sense of openness. Whether in a modern home or a commercial venue, Folding Doors bring the outdoors in with effortless style. 

Enhance Ventilation and Energy Efficiency Naturally 

When opened fully, Folding Doors allow maximum airflow to cool down spaces naturally and reduce the need for artificial climate control. This is especially valuable in warmer climates or during transitional seasons when fresh air circulation is key. 

By promoting cross-ventilation and increasing exposure to daylight, Folding Doors contribute to lower energy consumption and a healthier indoor environment. The result? A more sustainable, comfortable space that feels open, airy, and connected to its surroundings. 

Bifold Doors allow you to create a quality portal between two parts of your home, saving a lot of space.

Personalize Your Look with Materials and Finishes 

Folding Doors are not a one-size-fits-all. They’re available in a wide range of materials, colors, and finishes to match any design style. Whether you prefer the warmth of natural wood, the sleek minimalism of aluminum, or the openness of full glass panels, there’s a configuration to suit your aesthetic. 

You can also choose from custom hardware, frame profiles, and glazing options to enhance both form and function. This level of personalization makes Folding Doors an ideal choice for modern, traditional, or industrial interiors looking for a design statement that’s as practical as it is beautiful. 

Integrate with Smart Storage and Multi-Use Layouts 

Folding Doors are more than just entryways. They can become part of a multi-functional design strategy. In compact homes or offices, they can be integrated into built-in shelving, hidden storage units, or even convertible workspaces that appear or disappear as needed. 

Their adaptability makes them perfect for transformable layouts, such as guest rooms that double as home gyms, or open-plan studios that need occasional privacy. Folding Doors offer a clean, modern solution making the most of every square foot, without visual clutter. 

Embrace Innovation with Advanced Bi-folding Door Systems 

Today’s Folding Doors go far beyond basic functionality. Thanks to advances in hardware and design, modern systems offer ultra-smooth operation, concealed tracks, minimal thresholds, and enhanced security—all while maintaining a sleek aesthetic. 

Features like flush floor integration, soft-close mechanisms, thermal insulation, and even smart-lock compatibility make Folding Doors a cutting-edge choice for forward-thinking projects. Whether you’re designing a high-end home or a commercial space, these innovations ensure that your Folding Doors are as technically refined as they are visually striking. 

Folding Doors offer far more than just an elegant touch. They provide real, adaptable solutions for making the most of your space. From enhancing ventilation to dividing rooms with flexibility, they combine functionality with modern style in ways few other systems can. 

Whether you’re planning a renovation, building from scratch, or rethinking a compact layout, Folding Doors might be the key element your project needs. 

 

Glass and Aluminum Manufacturers in Maine

Glass and Aluminum Manufacturers in Maine – PRL Glass & Aluminum

If you’re searching for high-performance glass and aluminum systems in Maine, PRL Glass & Aluminum delivers nationwide solutions for builders, architects, and contractors.

Whether it’s a coastal commercial build or a residential development in Portland or Bangor, our products are engineered for resilience, design, and energy efficiency.

Are You in Maine? Get in Touch with PRL Glass & Aluminum 

From retail storefronts to hospitality and institutional construction, PRL offers expert guidance, custom fabrication, and fast delivery, directly to Maine.

Serving: Portland, Bangor, Lewiston, Auburn, South Portland, and surrounding cities

Service 

Contact Number 

Aluminum Division 

📞 877-775-2586 

Glass Division 

📞 800-433-7044 

📍 Visit our locations in City of Industry, California and explore our wide range of innovative, high-quality aluminum and glass solutions!

High-Quality Glass and Aluminum Solutions in Maine 

PRL Glass & Aluminum specializes in manufacturing and distributing a variety of high-performance products in Maine, including:

All systems meet ASTM and LEED standards, supporting code compliance and sustainable design across Maine.

Why Choose PRL Glass & Aluminum in Maine?

PRL Glass & Aluminum proudly serves Portland, Bangor, Lewiston, Auburn, South Portland and surrounding areas, addressing local architectural demands such as energy-efficient high-rise buildings, modern retail storefronts, and sustainable residential developments., providing tailored solutions for Nevada’s growing construction market.

  • Fast lead times and nationwide delivery
  • Custom architectural solutions for commercial and residential projects
  • LEED-compatible and energy-saving products
  • Expert support for specification, compliance, and performance
PRL Glass and Aluminum in Maine

Why Aluminum and Glass Are a Smart Choice in Nevada

Maine’s construction industry embraces aluminum and glass due to their compliance with state energy efficiency regulations and sustainability initiatives. These materials play a key role in modern urban developments, offering long-term benefits in both commercial and residential projects.

Maine’s rapid urban expansion and climate conditions make aluminum and glass the preferred materials for modern construction. The key benefits include:

  • Thermal insulation – Keeps buildings efficient year-round
  • Noise reduction – Especially valuable in growing cities like Portland and Bangor
  • Versatile aesthetics – Fits coastal, rural, and urban environments
  • Low maintenance – Withstands Maine’s seasonal weather changes
  • Recyclable and eco-conscious
  • Battle Door option – Enhanced safety against extreme weather and property damage

PRL glass and Aluminum Available throughout the United States 

PRL Glass are in Maine and all the country. With project customization and fast shipping, PRL is a leader in manufacturing and project design in the United States, delivering high quality glass solutions and aluminum systems.  

We service all 50 states in the United States. 

North Dakota

Rhode Island

South Dakota

Vermont 

Wyoming 

Follow us on social media ✅

Stay tuned for news, events, discounts and new products through the different social media channels.

5 Laminated Glass Trends for 2025

5 Laminated Glass Trends for 2025: Beyond Aesthetics, Maximum Functionality

Home / 2025 / July

In today’s construction industry, laminated glass is no longer just a design element, it has become a key component for safety, comfort, and energy efficiency in modern architecture.  

As technology advances and building standards become more demanding, laminated glass is evolving to offer features that goes far beyond its traditional role of enhancing aesthetics. 

In this article, we explore five emerging trends in laminated glass that are redefining how architects, builders, and developers approach both residential and commercial projects. From superior impact resistance to advanced acoustic insulation, these innovations are setting new benchmarks for performance, sustainability, and occupant well-being. 

The trends in laminated glass are not aesthetic, but rather functional.

Trend 1: Enhanced Impact Resistance and Security

Laminated glass has long been valued for its safety benefits, but recent advancements in interlayer technology are taking impact resistance to a new level. Modern laminated glass can now withstand stronger blows and repeated impacts without shattering, making it an essential choice for storefronts, high-rise buildings, and hurricane-prone areas 

These improvements not only protect occupants from accidental breakage, but also deter forced entry, add a crucial layer of security. 

Manufacturers are also combining laminated glass with other safety features, such as intrusion-resistant films and stronger bonding materials, to create glazing systems that comply with increasingly stringent building codes 

By offering higher resilience without compromising transparency or design flexibility, impact-resistant laminated glass is setting a new standard in protective architecture. 

Trend 2: Acoustic Insulation for Quieter Spaces

Urban noise pollution has become a major concern for both residential and commercial developments, and laminated glass is at the forefront of the solution. By incorporating specialized acoustic interlayers, laminated glass can significantly reduce the transmission of external sounds, creating quieter, more comfortable indoor environments.  

This makes it an ideal choice for hotels, offices, apartments, and any building located near busy streets, airports, or industrial areas. 

Unlike traditional soundproofing methods that add bulk or limit design options, acoustic laminated glass maintains a slim profile and full transparency while delivering exceptional noise reduction. This innovation not only enhances occupant comfort but also adds value to properties by meeting the growing demand for peace and tranquility in urban living. 

Trend 3: Thermal Control and Energy Efficiency

With rising energy costs and stricter environmental regulations, energy efficiency is a top priority in modern construction, and laminated glass is playing a key role.  

By integrating advanced coatings and high-performance interlayers, laminated glass can now help regulate indoor temperatures more effectively, minimizing heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. This reduces the reliance on HVAC systems, leading to lower energy consumption and utility costs. 

Moreover, energy-efficient laminated glass contributes to buildings achieving green certifications such as LEED, enhancing their market appeal and sustainability credentials. Architects and developers are increasingly specifying this type of glazing in projects aiming for net-zero or energy-positive performance, proving that laminated glass is not just a design choice, but a smart investment in long-term energy savings. 

Laminated glass is trending due to its technological capabilities, such as sound control and bullet resistance.

Trend 4: UV Protection and Fade Reduction

Sunlight streaming through glass can bring warmth and brightness to space, but it also carries harmful UV rays that can damage the interior over time. Modern laminated glass incorporates specialized interlayers that block up to 99% of UV radiation, protecting furnishings, flooring, and artworks from fading or deterioration.  

This not only preserves the aesthetic and value of interior spaces but also contributes to healthier indoor environments by reducing occupants’ exposure to UV rays. 

Unlike films or external shading systems, laminated glass with integrated UV protection requires no additional maintenance and preserves clear, uninterrupted views. As homeowners, businesses, and institutions prioritize long-term protection for their interiors, UV-filtering laminated glass is becoming an indispensable element in both new buildings and renovations. 

Trend 5: Smart and Switchable Laminated Glass

The rise of smart technologies in architecture has extended to laminated glass, with switchable or electrochromic options transforming how spaces adapt to privacy and lighting needs. By embedding switchable films within laminated glass, occupants can instantly change transparency levels at the touch of a button, turning a clear window into an opaque partition without sacrificing design or space. 

This technology is particularly valuable in modern offices, healthcare facilities, hotels, and luxury residences where flexible layouts and privacy are essential. Beyond aesthetics and convenience, switchable laminated glass can also contribute to energy efficiency by controlling solar heat gain and glare, showcasing how laminated glass is evolving to meet the demands of dynamic, high-performance buildings. 

Glass and Aluminum Manufacturers in New York City

Premium Glass & Aluminum Solutions for New York City

If you’re searching for premium glass and aluminum systems in New York City, PRL Glass & Aluminum is your nationwide partner for advanced architectural solutions. 

From luxury residential towers in Manhattan to commercial hubs in Brooklyn and institutional projects across the five boroughs, our systems are engineered for the highest standards in performance, design, and durability. 

We manufacture and ship custom storefronts, curtainwall systems, aluminum doors, and architectural glass tailored for New York City’s demanding construction industry. 

Building in New York City? Connect with PRL Glass & Aluminum Today

Whether you’re developing high-rise apartments, hospitals, universities, or retail spaces, PRL provides custom fabrication, fast delivery, and expert technical support throughout New York City.

We proudly serve projects in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Staten Island, and the greater NYC metropolitan area.

Service 

Contact Number 

Aluminum Division 

📞 877-775-2586 

Glass Division 

📞 800-433-7044 

📍 Visit our locations in City of Industry, California and explore our wide range of innovative, high-quality aluminum and glass solutions!

Advanced Glass & Aluminum Designs for NYC Builders 

PRL systems are designed to meet the unique demands of New York City’s skyline and fast-paced construction timelines, delivering resilience, energy efficiency, and striking aesthetics. 

All PRL systems comply with ASTM, NFRC, and LEED standards, ensuring code compliance and top performance in NYC’s stringent regulatory environment. 

Why NYC Developers Trust PRL Glass & Aluminum 

In a city where time is money, builders and architects need partners who deliver precision and speed, PRL does exactly that, with systems built for New York’s complexity. 

Why NYC professionals trust PRL: 

✅ Quick turnaround times and reliable nationwide shipping 

✅ Custom solutions for luxury residential, commercial, and institutional projects 

✅ Energy-efficient systems essential for LEED and NYC building codes 

✅ Technical expertise to navigate NYC’s unique construction requirements 

From Midtown towers to Brooklyn brownstones, PRL helps New York projects rise with confidence. 

PRL Glass and Aluminum in New York City

Benefits of Glass and Aluminum Systems in New York City

Aluminum and glass systems are synonymous with modern New York architectur, offering durability, clean design, and lasting value. 

Here’s why they’re the best fit: 

  • Thermal Performance – Supports energy efficiency in all seasons 
  • Noise Reduction – Crucial for comfort in one of the world’s busiest cities 
  • Sleek Urban Aesthetics – Matches NYC’s contemporary and historic styles 
  • Low Maintenance – Long-lasting and easy to clean in a dense urban environment 
  • Sustainable – Fully recyclable and LEED-compatible for green building certifications 
  • Battle Door Capability – Reinforced aluminum and laminated glass options provide enhanced security against vandalism, break-ins, protests, and even severe weather events like hurricanes 

PRL Glass & Aluminum, your National Supplier

From our location in California, PRL Glass & Aluminum serves New York and all 50 states in the United States.

We offer service in major cities across the country:

Los Angeles

Chicago

Houston

Phoenix

Follow us on social media ✅

Stay tuned for news, events, discounts and new products through the different social media channels.

Glass and Aluminum Manufacturers in Wyoming

Glass and Aluminum Manufacturers in Wyoming – PRL Glass & Aluminum

If you’re looking for strong, energy-efficient glass and aluminum systems in Wyoming, PRL Glass & Aluminum is your nationwide partner for reliable architectural solutions. From urban projects in Cheyenne to tourism-focused builds in Jackson and infrastructure upgrades in Casper, our systems are engineered for Wyoming’s high-altitude climate, wide temperature ranges, and rugged beauty. 

We manufacture and ship custom storefronts, curtainwall, aluminum doors, and architectural glass, serving Wyoming’s commercial, institutional, and residential construction markets. 

Are You in Wyoming? Get in Touch with PRL Glass & Aluminum 

Whether your project is in a bustling city or a remote mountain community, PRL provides precision fabrication, dependable shipping, and expert service throughout Wyoming. 

We serve projects in Cheyenne, Casper, Laramie, Gillette, Jackson, and across the state. 

Service 

Contact Number 

Aluminum Division 

📞 877-775-2586 

Glass Division 

📞 800-433-7044 

📍 Visit our locations in City of Industry, California and explore our wide range of innovative, high-quality aluminum and glass solutions!

High-Quality Glass and Aluminum Solutions in Wyoming 

PRL designs and fabricates systems ready to meet Wyoming’s unique construction challenges—balancing durability, energy savings, and contemporary design. 

All PRL products are tested to meet or exceed ASTM, NFRC, and LEED standards for performance, energy efficiency, and compliance. 

Why Choose PRL Glass & Aluminum in Wyoming? 

From growing cities to resort communities, Wyoming contractors need flexible systems that stand up to mountain weather. PRL delivers with precision and speed. 

Why Wyoming builders trust PRL: 

  • Thermally efficient products for cold winters and warm summers 
  • Fast, reliable nationwide delivery, even to rural areas 
  • Custom solutions for small and large-scale projects 
  • Comprehensive support from bid to build 

From Cheyenne’s revitalization efforts to Jackson’s resort expansions, PRL supports Wyoming’s growth. 

PRL in Wyoming

Why Aluminum and Glass Are a Smart Choice in Wyoming

Aluminum and glass systems meet Wyoming’s demands for resilience, energy efficiency, and clean aesthetics—perfect for mountain towns and urban centers alike.

Here’s why:

  • Extreme Climate Performance – Maintains integrity through snow, ice, and wide temperature shifts
  • Thermal Break Technology – Reduces heat loss for greater energy savings
  • Low Maintenance – Corrosion-resistant, even in high-altitude environments
  • Modern Appearance – Complements rustic, traditional, or contemporary architecture
  • Sustainable Choice – Fully recyclable and LEED-compatible

From Casper’s hospitals to Jackson’s boutique hotels, PRL helps Wyoming builders create lasting, beautiful structures.

PRL glass and Aluminum Available throughout the United States 

PRL Glass are in Wyoming and all the country. With project customization and fast shipping, PRL is a leader in manufacturing and project design in the United States, delivering high quality glass solutions and aluminum systems.  

We service all 50 states in the United States. 

Vermont

New Hampshire

North Dakota

Rhode Island 

South Dakota  

Follow us on social media ✅

Stay tuned for news, events, discounts and new products through the different social media channels.

Laminated vs Tempered Glass

Laminated Glass vs. Tempered Glass: Which Is Better for Security and Design?

Home / 2025 / July

Choosing the right type of safety glass is important for architects, builders, and property owners who want to balance security, aesthetics, and performance.  

With rising concerns about break-ins, severe weather, and even noise pollution, laminated glass and tempered glass have become two of the most popular options in modern construction. However, despite both being classified as safety glass, they differ significantly in how they’re made, how they break, and where they perform best. 

Understanding these differences is essential to avoid costly mistakes and ensure your glass installation meets the needs of your space. Whether you’re planning to secure a storefront, upgrade residential windows, or add a sleek glass element to your interior design, this guide will walk you through the key distinctions between laminated glass and tempered glass, from strength and security to price and recommended applications. 

Laminated glass is chosen for impact protection, as it does not shatter into thousands of pieces.

All You Need to Know About Laminated Glass 

Now let’s learn all about this glass so you can decide if it’s a good fit for your project. 

What Is Laminated Glass? 

Laminated glass is made by bonding two or more layers of glass with a plastic interlayer, usually polyvinyl butyral (PVB). This interlayer holds the glass sheets together even when shattered, preventing dangerous shards from scattering. The result is a glass product that combines durability with enhanced safety features. 

Main Benefits of Laminated Glass 

Laminated glass offers many of these benefits. 

  • Sound Reduction: Laminated glass dampens sound, which is ideal for buildings near busy streets or in noisy environments. 
  • UV Protection: The plastic interlayer blocks up to 99% of harmful UV rays, helping protect interiors from fading. 
  • Design Options: The interlayer can incorporate decorative films, graphics, or colored layers, offering creative opportunities in architecture. 

Common Uses of Laminated Glass 

Laminated glass has some very specific uses. 

  • Skylights and overhead glazing to prevent falling glass hazards. 
  • High-rise building windows. 
  • Automotive windshields. 

All You Need to Know About Tempered Glass 

Now let’s learn all about this glass so you can decide if it’s a good fit for your project. 

What Is Tempered Glass? 

Tempered glass starts as regular (annealed) glass that is heated to high temperatures and then rapidly cooled in a controlled process called tempering. This thermal treatment increases its strength by putting the outer surfaces in compression and the inner core in tension.  

When it breaks, it shatters into small, blunt pieces rather than sharp, jagged shards, significantly reducing the risk of injury. 

Main Benefits of Tempered Glass 

Tempered glass offers many of these benefits. 

  • Impact Resistance: Tempered glass is about four to five times stronger than standard glass, making it highly resistant to impacts. 
  • Safety on Breakage: The characteristic “dice-like” shattering minimizes the danger of sharp edges. 
  • Thermal Resistance: It can withstand higher temperature changes without breaking compared to standard glass. 

Common Uses of Tempered Glass 

Tempered glass has some very specific uses.   

  • Side and rear windows in vehicles. 
  • Tabletops and shelves. 
  • Windows in high-rise buildings where safety glass is required by code. 
Both options offer significant advantages in terms of safety. One of the differences is the size of the two products.

Laminated Glass vs Tempered Glass: Key Differences 

While both laminated and tempered glass fall under the category of safety glass, they are designed for different needs and situations. Laminated glass is best when security, sound insulation, and UV protection are priorities, since its interlayer keeps broken pieces together and adds extra benefits.  

Tempered glass, on the other hand, is ideal where high impact resistance and breakage safety are needed, offering impressive strength but shattering completely into small, blunt fragments if broken. 

Below is a quick comparison highlighting the main differences: 

Feature 

Laminated Glass 

Tempered Glass 

Construction 

Multiple layers bonded with plastic interlayer (PVB) 

Single sheet heat-treated for strength 

Breakage 

Holds together when shattered 

Shatters into small, blunt pieces 

Security 

Harder to penetrate, better for forced-entry prevention 

Less secure, easier to break through 

Sound Reduction 

Excellent noise dampening 

Minimal sound insulation 

UV Protection 

Blocks most UV rays 

Limited UV protection 

Cost 

Generally more expensive 

Less expensive than laminated glass 

  Choosing the right glass type depends on your specific project needs. If you need maximum security and soundproofing, laminated glass is the better option; if you want cost-effective safety glass with high impact resistance, tempered glass is often the preferred choice. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is safer: laminated or tempered glass?

Both are safety glasses, but laminated glass offers better protection against forced entry (hurricanne protection too) since it holds together when shattered, making it harder to penetrate. Tempered glass, while very strong, will completely shatter into small pieces when broken. 

Can laminated and tempered glass be used together?

Yes! Many projects combine both types. For example, laminated glass for exterior windows to prevent break-ins and reduce noise, and tempered glass for interior doors or partitions where impact resistance is key. 

Which glass type is better for soundproofing?

Laminated glass is better for sound reduction because the interlayer absorbs sound vibrations, helping minimize noise from outside. 

Is laminated glass more expensive than tempered glass?

Generally, yes. Laminated glass tends to cost more due to its multi-layered construction and added benefits like UV protection and sound insulation. 

Where should I use tempered glass?

Tempered glass is great for shower doors, side and rear vehicle windows, interior glass partitions, glass tabletops, and areas where safety glass is required, but extreme security isn’t necessary. 

Does laminated glass block UV rays?

Yes! Laminated glass can block up to 99% of harmful UV radiation, helping protect your interiors from fading and sun damage. 

At PRL, we understand that choosing the right type of glass is essential for the safety, functionality, and aesthetics of your project. That’s why we offer a wide range of laminated glass solutions designed to meet the highest standards of security, sound insulation, and UV protection. Our laminated glass is ideal for commercial buildings, residential spaces, and architectural designs that demand performance without compromising style. 

Explore our complete line of laminated glass products and discover how PRL can help you bring your vision to life with innovative glazing solutions tailored to your needs. Contact our team today to learn more about our offerings and find the perfect glass for your next project.