Damage to your car windows can range from a minor crack to a major break. Even the smallest chips, however, can lead to significant problems if you don’t schedule an auto glass replacement promptly. Glass repair experts work with two types of glass: tempered and laminate. Each play very specific roles in safeguarding drivers on the road. Here’s what you need to know before you seek out a replacement.

The Two Major Types of Auto Glass

What Is Laminated Glass?

Laminated glass is designed with three distinctive layers. The first and third layers consist of sturdy glass panels, while the center is made with polyvinyl butyral, or PVB. The importance of this glass is that, if it breaks, it will not shatter into potentially dangerous shards inside the car, which is why it’s used on windshields. In the event of an accident, or if tough debris were to hit the glass, it would help prevent injury to the driver or passengers by cracking in place but remaining relatively intact. In addition to safeguarding people inside the car, the PVB layer is often tinted to provide significant protection against potent ultraviolet rays.

What Is Tempered Glass?

Tempered glass, by contrast, is used on rear and side car windows. Unlike the three layers used to produce laminate glass, tempered car windows feature a single pane that is first heat treated and then cooled quickly. When it breaks, it breaks into many small pieces with relatively harmless edges. Because the glass is breakable but also has safer edges, it is easier for law enforcement officials and first responders to help passengers out of a car if an accident or other type of emergency occurs.

Whatever type of auto glass replacement your car needs, trust the experts at Consumer Glass in St. Peters, MO, for quality auto glass repair in the St. Louis and St. Charles metro areas. The certified professionals at this locally owned and operated company will handle everything from windshield replacements to rear or side car window repairs. They’re proud to offer commercial and residential glass repair services and are approved by most major insurance providers. Visit their website to learn more, or call (636) 397-6800 to schedule an appointment.