Auto Glass Basics: All You Need to Know

If you look at the glass on cars and ordinary glass, you’ll see no discernable difference. Both auto glass and regular glass have very similar appearances, and from the naked eye, they look identical. If you touch them, it would be tough to distinguish between regular glass auto. There are, however, some significant differences between auto glass and regular glass. These differences are required for safety, endurance, and strength. Here is a basic breakdown of auto glass.

1. Safety Glass

The glass used on vehicles is safety glass. Safety glass is glass that has had additional modifications done to reduce the risk of it breaking, and when it is broken, less likely to cause harm. There are two types of safety glass: laminated glass and tempered glass. Laminated glass is a type of glass with two layers of glass held together by an interlayer, usually PVB. This extra layer increases the thickness of the glass and makes it more robust.

On the other hand, tempered glass is glass that has usually been treated with heat and then cooled down. Heat-treating the glass increases its strength and makes it less likely to shatter. Both tempered glass and laminated glass are used on cars, but they’re used in different areas.  

2. Windshield

The glass on a vehicle's windshield is usually laminated. As explained earlier, laminated glass has an extra layer, which adds to its thickness. This extra layer ensures that even the glass is hit or damaged; it stays together and ensures the safety of the people in the car. Furthermore, using laminated glass also means that cracks and damage in the glass will spread slower, giving the car owner ample time to get the glass repaired or replaced.  

3. Car Windows

Tempered glass is used on the driver and passenger windows of cars. It’s especially useful on windows because the added heat makes the car windows sturdier, making it less likely to break. Furthermore, if a car window breaks, it shatters into many small pieces that are less likely to cause fatal damage. Tempered glass on the windshield would be dangerous as a shattered windshield would affect the driver's vision and safety, but the tempered glass on the side windows are quite safe and effective.

If you need a windshield replacement or auto glass repair in Houston, check out AAR Auto Glass. They offer all types of auto glass services conveniently at an affordable price. Get in touch with them now to book your appointment.