Why We Chose Non-Removable Stops for Security Film Projects

Added Security: Non-Removable Stops on Storefront Doors

When you’re protecting a building, glass choice matters — but so does how it’s held in place. One of the most overlooked security weaknesses in many storefronts and school entry systems is the use of removable glazing stops.

At The Glass Shop LLC, we specify and install non-removable stops for all security, vestibule, and high-impact applications. Paired with Dow 995 structural silicone or Pentagon Protection mechanical attachment systems, they keep the glass locked to the frame even after heavy impact or attempted tampering.

The Problem with Removable Stops

Most commercial framing systems use snap-in stops that make glass replacement easy — and that convenience is exactly the problem.

During a break-in attempt, removable stops can:

• Pop free under impact, allowing the entire glazed panel to fall out of the frame.

• Be pried off with basic tools from the exterior side, especially on older storefronts.

• Undermine film and silicone anchoring, because the glass can still dislodge along the unsecured edge.

The result? Even laminated or filmed glass can drop out once the edge restraint fails — leaving an open path for entry.

Why Non-Removable Stops Are a Security Upgrade

Non-removable stops are mechanically fastened or structurally bonded into the framing pocket. When paired with proper sealant or mechanical attachment, they:

• Lock the glass inside the frame, preventing exterior removal.

• Resist prying, vibration, and repeated blows.

• Preserve the bond of Dow 995 structural silicone, which depends on consistent edge retention.

• Support impact, blast, and intrusion-resistant performance ratings.

Even in retrofit projects, switching to non-removable stops transforms standard storefronts into hardened systems capable of delaying forced entry for minutes instead of seconds.

Dow 995: The Silicone That Holds When Stops Don’t

Dow Corning 995 Structural Silicone is the glazing industry’s benchmark adhesive for impact and security applications.

Key Specs:

• Tensile Strength: > 200 psi (1.38 MPa)

• Elongation: > 500 %

• Service Range: –40 °F to 300 °F (–40 °C to 149 °C)

• Movement Capability: ± 25 %

• Adhesion: Excellent to anodized aluminum and glass

995 stays flexible for decades, redistributing impact forces through the frame. But even the best silicone relies on the stop system to keep the glass edge in the pocket — which is why removable stops defeat its purpose.

Pentagon Protection: The Dry Mechanical Alternative

For clients who prefer a non-silicone attachment, Pentagon Protection manufactures an interlocking mechanical anchor that clamps the filmed glass securely to the frame. These dry-fit systems meet ASTM F1233, UL 972, and GSA TS01 impact standards and are ideal where silicone cure times aren’t feasible.

Used alongside non-removable stops, Pentagon systems maintain edge compression and resist push-through — even after multiple impacts.

Recommended Configurations for High-Security Entrances

1. Non-removable interior stops fastened or bonded in place.

2. Dow 995 wet-glazed bead or Pentagon mechanical anchor tying film to frame.

3. 8 – 15 mil safety or security film applied edge-to-edge on interior lite.

4. Laminated or tempered glass rated to project requirements.

5. Properly sealed corners and sill terminations to prevent moisture or prying intrusion.

Together, these components create a layered defense that keeps the glass in its frame under force, vibration, or thermal stress.

Why It Matters in Southwest Missouri

Schools, city offices, and retail businesses throughout Southwest Missouri are upgrading to modern secure-entry systems. By specifying non-removable stops with structural attachment, The Glass Shop LLC helps ensure that every storefront retrofit or vestibule build provides true forced-entry resistance — not just thicker glass.

📞 Call today for a free on-site security glazing estimate.We stock Dow 995, Pentagon Protection kits, and non-removable stop hardware for most major storefront systems. 417-229-5550

Window Film Will Be on The Attachment Side Unless Both Sides Receive Security Film