Essential Insights into Automotive Glass Types
This article provides an in-depth overview of automotive glass types, including laminated and tempered glass, their safety features, and repair procedures. Understanding these distinctions is vital for vehicle safety and timely repairs. Learn about the manufacturing process, differences, and importance of maintaining your windshield to ensure optimal safety on the road.
Understanding Automotive Glass
What occurs if your vehicle collides with a tree, causing the windshield to crack? Unlike typical glass, which shatters into sharp fragments, automotive windshields break into small, safer pieces.
This is due to the unique composition of automotive glass, engineered for impact resistance and safety.
Learn more about the different types of automotive glass and their functions below.
What are the primary varieties of auto glass?
The two main categories are laminated and tempered glass.
Windshields are crafted from laminated safety glass, while side windows and rearview mirrors use tempered glass.
Laminated: Developed in the 1920s, laminated safety glass consists of two glass sheets bonded with Polyvinyl Butyral. The assembly is then heated, resulting in durable laminated glass.
Because of its design, laminated glass stays intact upon impact, preventing dangerous shards from flying around. Additionally, it acts as a cushion during collisions, reducing injury risk.
Tempered: Tempered glass is produced from a single glass sheet subjected to intense heat followed by rapid cooling, enhancing its strength.
It's ideal for side windows, which shatter into small, blunt fragments rather than sharp shards when broken. Unlike laminated glass, tempered glass must be replaced if damaged, as it cannot be repaired.
How to replace your vehicle's windshield?
Contact a professional auto glass technician. They will remove wipers, moldings, and cowl components, clean off old adhesive, and apply a fresh layer. The new windshield is then installed securely. Costs may be covered by insurance or paid directly by the vehicle owner.
Always repair or replace a cracked windshield promptly. It serves as a critical barrier during accidents, helping prevent ejection and further injuries.
