Your car’s windshield and windows are designed to keep drivers and passengers safe. Since auto glass throughout a car serves different roles, panes for each area have key differences. If you’re preparing for window or windshield replacement, here’s what to expect from the glass that will be installed.

What Type of Auto Glass Do Car Windows Use?

All windows are typically made of tempered glass. This product is made of a single-ply layer manufactured under high heat, then cooled down for added strength.

When tempered glass breaks, it shatters into small, dull pieces. In an accident, this helps drivers and passengers avoid serious injuries from shards. Tempered glass can also be broken more easily than windshields in emergencies, such as rescuing children or pets from a hot car. 

What Type of Auto Glass Do Windshields Use?

Most windshields nowadays are made of laminated glass. This variety contains multiple layers of glass panes secured by durable sheets of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) film.

When broken, laminated glass remains mostly intact without shattering. The underlaying film holds the shards together, creating a spider-web pattern instead of emitting pieces. This safety feature protects drivers and passengers from shard-related injuries and provides an additional cushion to prevent people from flying out of the vehicle during an accident.

Small chips and cracks on laminated glass require immediate repairs. Not scheduling windshield replacement to address minor damage could cause cracks to spread and compromise the pane’s safety features. 

If you need window or windshield replacement, turn to Glass Doctor in Spokane Valley, WA. They have provided auto glass service since 1977. Serving clients throughout the surrounding area, they prioritize affordability and customer satisfaction. They use only superior products to secure vehicles and improve safety. Visit their website for more information on their products, or call (509) 368-7924 to schedule an appointment.