Discover important facts about vehicle glass, including the main types—laminated and tempered—and their safety features. Learn how these specialized glasses protect passengers and ensure driving safety. Get tips on choosing professional repair services for windshield damages and understand the significance of timely repairs to prevent accidents. This overview provides essential knowledge for vehicle owners seeking to understand their car's glass components and safety mechanisms.
Picture your vehicle hitting an obstacle, causing the windshield to crack. Unlike regular glass that shatters into jagged pieces, automotive glass breaks into small, safer fragments.
This is because car glass is specially engineered for safety and resilience. Designed to absorb impacts, it helps protect passengers during accidents.
Below, learn about different types of automotive glass and their specific roles.
What are the main types of automotive glass?
The two primary categories are laminated and tempered glass.
Windshields are made from laminated safety glass, while side and rear windows use tempered glass.
Laminated Glass: Originating in the 1920s, laminated glass is composed of two glass layers bonded with Polyvinyl Butyral, then heated to create a durable, safe barrier.
Since laminated glass stays intact upon impact, it prevents dangerous glass shards from flying around and acts as a cushion, reducing injury risks during collisions.
Tempered Glass: This involves a single glass sheet processed with high heat and rapid cooling, increasing its strength.
Tempered glass is perfect for side windows because it shatters into small, dull pieces upon impact, minimizing injury. Damaged tempered glass must be replaced, as it cannot be repaired effectively.
Replacing Your Car’s Windshield:
Hire certified auto glass specialists to perform repairs. They will remove wipers and moldings, clean old adhesive, and install a new sealant before fitting a new windshield. Costs may be covered by insurance or paid out-of-pocket.
Promptly repair any windshield cracks. Driving with damage affects safety by impairing structural integrity and can lead to ejection risks in accidents.
Note:
This blog shares useful and practical insights. While efforts are made for accuracy, information may differ across sources. For precise and safe results, consult with professionals.