Driven by escalating demand for bird-friendly glazing as well as new design codes and sustainability criteria, Vitro Architectural Glass has introduced BirdSmart™ Bird Safe Glass.
With four first-surface laser-etched dot patterns, BirdSmart™ glass improves visibility for birds without compromising modern aesthetics. Specifically developed for ease of fabrication and bird-impact mitigation, BirdSmart™ Bird Safe Glass delivers cutting-edge technology and enhanced manufacturing efficiency, offering fabricators new levels of versatility with four dot patterns from which to choose.
Pictured: BirdSmart™ Bird Safe Glass Speck 6 Shift 2x2, which features a diamond pattern with a threat factor of 20.
Revolutionary Laser-Etched Markings
BirdSmart™ glass utilizes laser-etched first surface markings, a precise and non-caustic process that sets it apart from harsher, acid-etched alternatives. During this process, a microscopic layer of glass is removed, and nothing is added to the surface that must be baked in or could be degraded later. This environmentally friendly method does not affect glass strength or durability and ensures clean, durable patterns that enhance glass visibility for birds while maintaining aesthetic clarity.
Performance Without Compromise
A key advantage of BirdSmart™ glass is its ability to integrate with Vitro’s Solarban® low-e coatings.
When paired with Solarban® low-e coatings on the second surface, BirdSmart™ glass delivers industry-leading energy performance metrics, including unaffected visible light transmittance (VLT) and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) values. This seamless compatibility enables fabricators to offer projects that meet stringent energy codes while remaining bird friendly.
Fabrication Options
BirdSmart™ glass patterns are laser-etched on the first surface of clear, Starphire® or Acuity® glasses by Vitro. BirdSmart™ glass can be manufactured with or without a Solarban® low-e coating on the second surface, without any need for special processing requirements or adjustments to the furnace.
Enhanced Efficiencies
Vitro optimizes BirdSmart™ glass production and shipping processes. Both BirdSmart™ and Solarban® low-e coated glasses are manufactured at Vitro’s Wichita Falls, Texas, facility. This all-in-one production process allows fabricators to source all Vitro glass products in one shipment, reducing coordination effort and transit times.
The adaptability of BirdSmart™ glass extends to its ordering options. Ideal for both small and large projects, BirdSmart™ glass is available in sizes up to Titan™ glass (130x240 inches) and can be ordered in quantities as little as one pack. This flexibility results in minimized excess inventory while still meeting diverse customer demands.
Built-in Sustainability
BirdSmart™ glass aligns with Vitro’s commitment to sustainability and industry leadership. Manufactured using a non-caustic, laser etching process, BirdSmart™ glass is an affordable and sustainable solution that has received American Bird Conservancy tunnel testing approval and ensures compliance with building codes and regulations.
For more information or to place an order today, contact a Vitro Architectural Glass representative or visit VitroGlazings.com/BirdSmart.
