Tough Tek Metals, a small-town manufacturer based in Lansing, Iowa, is celebrating a major milestone: 100,000 safety screens provided to military housing across the United States and beyond, a number that represents far more than production output. It represents lives protected, families supported, and tragedies prevented.
For the team at Tough Tek Metals, the achievement is deeply meaningful.
“Although nobody calls us and thanks us, we know we are having a meaningful impact,” the team shared. “We know falls are being prevented, and that’s what matters most.”
A Mission Rooted in Child Safety
Tough Tek’s patented safety screens were developed with a clear purpose: preventing children from falling out of windows while still allowing families to fully use their windows for ventilation and comfort.
Unlike traditional fall-prevention systems that limit how far a window can open, Tough Tek screens allow full airflow while maintaining safety, blending seamlessly with standard window designs.
The company’s work is closely tied to a larger movement in child safety. After a tragic incident involving a child in military housing, legislation known as “Evan’s Law” was enacted, requiring protective measures such as safety screens or guards. Tough Tek’s solution quickly became a trusted answer to that need.
Proven Impact for Military Families
The impact has been significant. According to feedback from military housing providers, properties using Tough Tek screens have seen zero falls from windows protected by their product, even after previously experiencing multiple incidents with other solutions.“These screens allow our military families to open their windows as intended—while keeping their children safe and preventing devastating tragedies,” the company shared.
Small-Town Innovation, National Reach
While the company operates out of Lansing, Iowa, its reach is national—and growing internationally. “What this milestone shows is that size doesn’t determine impact,” the team said. “It’s the determination to solve a problem that truly matters.” Working alongside partners like Iowa State University’s Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS), Tough Tek developed and refined its patented design to meet the highest standards of safety and durability. Beyond safety, the screens are built for long-term performance—helping property managers reduce maintenance costs while maintaining a clean, residential look.
Built by a Dedicated Local Team
This milestone would not be possible without the company’s skilled and committed workforce.
“Our team takes pride in every product we send out,” Tough Tek shared. “There’s a strong culture of respect, quality, and teamwork that drives everything we do.”
With fewer than a dozen minor defects reported across 100,000 units, the company’s commitment to quality has been a cornerstone of its success.
Looking Ahead
As Tough Tek Metals looks to the future, the mission remains clear: expand its reach and continue protecting families. “Our goal is to supply our safety screens around the world,” the company stated.
Proud to Call Lansing Home
Tough Tek credits its hometown for helping make this achievement possible. “We are proud to be located in Lansing and grateful for the support of our community, Main Street Lansing, and local leaders,” the team shared.
A Milestone That Matters
If summed up in one sentence, Tough Tek Metals says it best: “Our goal is to protect children, adults, and property at a reasonable price while building high-quality products that last.”
