A windshield is the front window of your car. It provides visibility and protects you and your passengers from weather conditions. The glass on your windshield can be made of various materials. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a windshield for your vehicle. Regardless of the material you choose, be sure to get a good-quality windshield.
Glass
In a vehicle, the windshield glass is the front window that provides visibility and protects the occupants from the elements. Its condition is crucial to the safety of the vehicle. Hence, it must be regularly checked and replaced to ensure its good performance. In addition, it should be replaced as soon as possible after an accident.
The manufacturing process of windshield glass involves a number of steps. The raw materials are tested and the variables involved in the process are monitored. Besides manual inspection, photoelectric devices are used to detect defects automatically. Other automatic measuring equipment is used to determine the radius of curvature and other dimensions. Unlike regular glass, windshield glass must meet specific specifications. Standards for this purpose were developed by the American Society for Testing Materials and SAE International.
Materials
There are several materials that can be used to create windscreens. Many of them can be custom-made to fit specific shapes, sizes, and forms. These materials are available at glass manufacturing companies. You can also find them online. Here are a few examples of the different types of windscreen materials. All of them are durable, and they are designed to protect your car from harmful elements.
While most windscreens are made of glass, others are laminated. Laminated glass is very resistant to shattering and is made to be thicker and sturdier than ordinary glass. Many windscreen materials are also tempered, or strengthened with chemical treatments.
Functions
A windscreen offers protection from the elements and acts as a barrier during a collision. It is made by joining two layers of glass together with polyvinyl butyral (PBV). This clear material sets under high pressure and creates a strong bond. This enables windshields to protect passengers from flying glass.
Windscreens also act as a structural reinforcement for the roof of the vehicle, preventing it from collapsing on the driver and passengers in the event of an accident. With modern manufacturing techniques, windscreens are remarkably resistant to pressure.
Cost
The cost of repairing or replacing a windshield varies widely. A small chip will cost you around $60 to $100, while a large crack can set you back at least $125. Oftentimes, it is best to take your car to a professional to get the best results. The cost of windshield replacement will also depend on the condition of your car, the type of glass used and the make and model of your car. Some minor chips and cracks can be repaired at home at a much lower cost.
Before getting your windshield repaired, you should check your auto insurance coverage. Many companies cover windshield replacement as part of comprehensive auto insurance. If you have collision insurance, they may cover the full cost of the repair. Otherwise, you may have to pay a deductible on your own.
Certification
The automotive glass replacement safety standard (AGRSS) is a comprehensive set of safety standards for windshield repair and installation. These standards ensure that auto glass installation technicians are trained and equipped to provide safe and quality installations. They also help insurers and other industry stakeholders to identify shops that meet the highest standards. While it is not a legal requirement, AGRSS certification can provide additional peace of mind for consumers.
Read More: JEGS Car Hoods & Components For Your Classic Chevelle
There are three types of tests used to measure windshield quality. These tests include deterred lens factor and displacement grade. Each of these tests involves comparing a standard windshield with a test windshield, and a test subject must get at least 42 of them right to pass. Once a person passes the test, they are given a certification valid for three years. To renew certification, a person must complete one continuing education unit (CEU) in windshield repair. One CEU consists of 20 questions about windshield repair. The questions are designed to test the current knowledge of the repair professional.
Repair
To repair a cracked windscreen, you can use a windshield repair kit. A kit typically contains two types of resin and instructions. You may only need a few drops of the resin to complete the repair. However, you should remember that you cannot guarantee a perfect finish. It is recommended that you have your windscreen repaired by a professional.
In the 1970s, the windshield repair industry started to spread across the country. Many companies began to manufacture their own tools and began to perform repairs for customers. Some of these companies went on to expand internationally.
