Glass has been a crucial component in every automobile made for many decades now. It's far more than merely practical however, serving as a valuable protection component, should there be an accident. Glass windshields first came into regular use in the 1920s, with the ability to mass-produce them efficiently enough for automotive use.
Auto glass is manufactured to withstand certain guidelines that are handed down to the industry through crash testing, and is more commonly known as "safety glass." What many people don't realize however is that there are actually two distinctly different types of safety glass - tempered glass, and laminated glass.
Tempered glass is most commonly recognized for the fact that when it breaks, it doesn't shatter but instead merely crumbles into tiny pieces that are not actually sharp. It takes a great deal of force to cause this to happen however, as tempered glass is known for being extremely durable and resistant to impact and the elements. Tempered glass is most typically used for rear and side windows of cars.
Laminated glass behaves differently if broken, shattering into the ever-familiar "spiderweb" pattern, but not actually breaking into dangerous shards. It is made through a process of heat and cold, used to seal layers of plastic and glass together. The plastic holds the glass together and keeps the sharp glass from exploding when shattered, causing injuries.
If you find yourself needing a glass repair service, or to have a windshield replacement performed, there are a number of things you should look for. The National Glass Association certifies glass replacement technicians, meaning they should uphold the highest standards and use the best materials such as a urethane-based adhesive. These certified technicians should also verify the presence of any airbags, passenger or driver side, prevent any particulate matter from interfering with the adhesive bond, and clean and prime all surfaces and areas so they are properly prepared for the new glass installation. They should also explain to you, their customer, precisely what they're doing, and how best to take care of your new auto glass for years to come.
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