Why is safety glass better for windshields?
Safety glass is used in all automobile glass. It is manufactured to reduce the likelihood of injury, if it breaks. Windshields are made from a lamination process. This “tempering” process makes the glass many times stronger than un-tempered glass of the same thickness.
Will windshield glass cut you?
The glass from the windshield (a laminated glass product) under certain circumstances can become dislodged from the vinyl inner layer to which it is laminated. If it does, the pieces “spalling” off the windshield can be sharp and certainly cut a person’s skin. While this is not common, it is possible.
Are there different types of windshield glass?
There are three types of windshield glass that can be used on your vehicle; dealer glass, aftermarket glass, and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) glass.
What is the difference between safety glass and regular glass?
Safety glass is also known as tempered glass or strengthened glass, because it has been processed using heat to make the glass stronger. Safety glass might also owe it’s safer properties to having been laminated. Tempered safety glass is much stronger and more scratch resistant than regular glass.
What is the difference between a windshield glass and window glass of a car?
The glass used for windshield is not the same as the glass used for other windows. All windows in a vehicle are made of safety glass required by the OEM, however the windshield goes through an additional process of lamination to protect passengers.
How can I tell if glass is safety glass?
To identify whether your property has laminated or toughened glass, you will need to look for a printed kitemark code in the corners of the glass:
- BS EN 14449 – laminated glass.
- BS EN 12150 – toughened glass.
How can you tell if your windshield is not properly installed?
When you look at your car in the sunlight, your windshield glass should appear smooth and consistent. If you notice any waves or bumps in the glass, this is a sure sign of a quality issue with your new windshield glass. This is yet another sign that your installer did not get your windshield glass from the manufacturer.
Is it possible for a cracked windshield to shatter?
If you’re wondering, “Can a cracked windshield shatter?”, yes, it can. Especially after the impact caused by a collision. The good news is, windshields today are specifically designed to hold shattered glass together. OEM windshields, in particular, use special adhesives keeping broken glass pieces glued together.
Can a car windshield be replaced with after market glass?
Having your windshield glass replaced with original glass directly from your vehicle manufacturer is key to ensuring a proper fit and long-lasting repair. Unfortunately, if you have no proof that your replacement glass came from your manufacturer, it is possible that the installers may have used after-market parts to cut costs.
Why do windshield installers have to wear gloves?
It is vital that the installers of new windshield glass wear gloves so that oils are not transferred from the worker’s hands to the glass itself. This is because new windshield glass is covered with urethane, which is needed in order for the glass to be secured properly.