Category: FAQ’s

The side windshield of a car, the glass panel that provides a clear view of the road to the side of the driver and passengers, goes by various names and terminologies across the world. These differences in terminology often reflect regional variations, cultural influences, and historical contexts. In this blog by Auto Glass America, we’ll delve into the multifaceted world of side windshields and their diverse appellations.   Side Window In many English-speaking ​countries, the ​most straightforward and ​universal term ​for the side ​windshield of ​a car is ​”side window.” ​This term is ​used in ​the United States, ​Canada, the ​United Kingdom, and ​other nations ​where English is ​the primary ​language. It’s a ​simple and ​practical name that ​accurately describes ​the purpose of ​the glass ​panel.   Car Window Another common term that transcends borders is “car window.” While this term can refer to any window in a car, it is often used to describe the side windshield in the context of casual conversation.   Roll Down Window Historically, side windshields were more commonly referred to as “roll down windows.” This term emerged during the era of manual crank windows, where the window could be rolled down or up using a handle. Despite the widespread shift to power windows, the term still lingers in some regions as a nostalgic reference.   Side Glass The term “side glass” is used in various parts of the United States. This name emphasizes the material used for the windshield, which is made of glass.   Door Window In certain contexts, particularly in automotive repair or maintenance, the side windshield might be referred to as the “door window.” This terminology is more technical and is often used by mechanics and professionals.   Wing Window In the United Kingdom and some other parts of the world, the side windshield is occasionally called the “wing window.” Historically, cars had small triangular windows near the front of the vehicle that could be opened for ventilation. These windows were often referred to as wing windows, and the term may have carried over to describe the larger side windshield.   Door Glass Another technical term often employed by mechanics and those in the automotive industry is “door glass.” This term clearly specifies the location of the glass panel and distinguishes it from the windshield at the front of the car.   Vent Window In the United States and Canada, there was a time when cars featured smaller, often triangular windows that could be tilted to allow air circulation. These were called “vent windows.” In some regions, this term might be used to describe the side windshield, especially if the design harkens back to the era of vent windows.   Quarter Glass The term “quarter glass” typically refers to the small, often triangular, rear side windows in a car. However, in some cases, it might be used to describe the larger side windshield. This is more commonly encountered in the automotive industry.   Passenger Window and Driver’s Window Some people simply refer to the side windshields by their relative position within the car, using terms like “passenger window” and “driver’s window.” This is a practical way to specify which window you are talking about.   Side Panel In certain contexts, the side windshield may be called the “side panel.” This term is less specific to the glass itself but rather encompasses the entire side of the car, including the door.   Porthole In some vintage or classic car circles, enthusiasts might use the term “porthole” to describe side windshields. This term draws from the nautical theme, as some classic cars had small, circular windows reminiscent of ship portholes.   Doorlite This is a less common term, used regionally, to describe the side windshield. It is a blend of “door” and “lite” (a variant spelling of “light”). It highlights the function of the glass to let light into the vehicle’s interior.   Carriage Window In more traditional and formal language, the side windshield may be called a “carriage window.” This term has historical connotations, harkening back to the days when horse-drawn carriages had windows.   Roller Window In some regions, particularly where older vehicles are still in use, the term “roller window” is used. This name hearkens back to the days when windows were manually rolled up and down with a handle.   Lateral Window A more formal and technical term for the side windshield is the “lateral window.” This term is often used in automotive engineering and design circles.   Takeaway What you call ​the side ​windshield of a ​car can ​vary widely based ​on where ​you are in ​the world, ​your cultural influences, ​and your ​personal preferences. Whether ​you refer ​to it as ​a “side ​window,” a “car ​window,” or ​by one of ​the other ​terms mentioned, each ​name carries ​a unique history ​and significance, ​adding to the ​rich tapestry ​of automotive terminology.

If you own ​a car, ​you are certainly well ​aware of ​the numerous expenses ​associated with ​maintaining or improving ​it. You ​might be unsure ​if investing ​in auto glass, ​especially laminated ​glass, is a ​good idea. ​We’ll explain laminated ​glass for ​cars in this ​blog post ​and examine if ​it is truly ​as pricey as ​it might ​seem.   Factors affecting cost of laminated glass Now, when it ​comes to ​the price of ​laminated glass ​for your car, ​there are ​several factors that ​play into ​it. Here’s a ​closer look ​at what can ​make it ​more or less expensive:   Type of Laminated Glass The type of laminated glass you choose can impact the cost. You have got various options, from basic clear laminated glass to tinted or UV-protective versions. The fancier the features, the higher the cost.   Size and Complexity The size and complexity of your car’s windshield matter. Larger or more uniquely shaped windshields, like those with curves or integrated sensors for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), are pricier to replace or repair.   Your Car’s Make and Model Different cars have different windshield designs, and that can affect the price. High-end or luxury vehicles might come with more expensive laminated glass due to added tech or custom shapes.   Quality of the Glass Just like any product, the quality of the laminated glass you choose will impact the cost. High-quality laminated glass might cost more, but it usually comes with benefits like better clarity and durability.   Special Features and Tech Fancy features like heads-up displays, rain sensors, or infrared-reflective coatings can raise the cost because they add complexity and require specialized glass.   Labour and Installation Costs The installation process is a big part of the expense. Labor costs can vary based on where you live and the skills of the technician. A proper installation is crucial for safety and performance.   Insurance Coverage Understanding your policy can affect your out-of-pocket costs.   Cost of laminated glass On average, replacing a laminated glass windshield in a regular car can range from $100 to $400 or even more. This includes the cost of the glass, labor, and any added features or technology. Repairing small cracks or chips in laminated glass is usually less expensive, ranging from $50 to $150, depending on the severity of the damage and whether it can be repaired without a full replacement.   To give you a more specific idea, let’s say you need to replace a damaged windshield in a typical sedan. That could set you back anywhere from $200 to $500, depending on the type of laminated glass, added features, and labor. For a high-end vehicle with advanced ADAS tech, you might be looking at $800 or more because of the added complexity and specialized features.   If you are worried about the cost, there are some tips to help you manage it:   1. Check Your Insurance Review your insurance policy to see how much of your auto glass repairs or replacements it covers. Many policies include these, which can cut down your costs.   2. Repair vs. Replacement If you have minor damage like a small chip or crack, you might be able to get it repaired instead of replaced, saving you money.   3. Get Multiple Quotes Get quotes from a few reputable auto glass shops. Look at the prices, but also consider the quality of materials and work offered by each shop.   4. Choose the Right Glass When you have a choice, pick a laminated glass windshield that meets your needs without any unnecessary features that can hike up the price.   Takeaway While laminated glass for auto glass applications can be pricier than standard glass, the safety, durability, and long-term savings it brings make it a valuable choice. The initial expense might be there, but it’s an investment in your safety, driving comfort, and peace of mind on the road. So whether you need to replace a cracked windshield or want to level up your car with the latest tech, remember the value of laminated glass in keeping you and your vehicle safe.

One of the ​most critical ​elements of a ​vehicle’s safety ​is its glass, ​and laminated ​glass has emerged ​as a ​popular choice in ​the construction ​of automobile windows ​and windshields. ​But is laminated ​glass breakable, ​and how does ​it perform ​under different stressors and impacts? In this blog by Auto Glass America, we will delve into the world of laminated auto glass to understand its durability and the innovative features that make it a top choice for vehicle safety.   Understanding Laminated Glass Laminated glass is ​a type ​of safety glass ​used in ​various applications, including ​automobiles, buildings, ​and aircraft. It ​is composed ​of multiple layers ​of glass ​and an interlayer ​made of ​polyvinyl butyral (PVB) ​or ethylene-vinyl ​acetate (EVA). This ​interlayer acts ​as a bonding ​agent, holding ​the layers of ​glass together ​and preventing them ​from shattering ​upon impact.   1. Impact Resistance One of the primary reasons laminated glass is chosen for auto windshields is its remarkable impact resistance. Unlike conventional tempered glass, which shatters into small, sharp fragments upon impact, laminated glass remains intact. When struck with force, the outer layers may break or crack, but the interlayer keeps the glass bonded and prevents it from falling apart. This feature significantly reduces the risk of injuries to occupants during accidents.   2. Durability against Environmental Factors Auto glass is ​exposed to ​a variety of ​environmental factors, ​including extreme temperatures, ​ultraviolet (UV) ​radiation, and moisture. ​Laminated glass ​is designed to ​withstand these ​conditions, offering durability ​and longevity. ​The interlayer provides ​UV protection, ​preventing the glass ​from yellowing ​or becoming brittle ​over time. ​Additionally, it helps ​to maintain ​the structural integrity ​of the ​glass under varying weather conditions.   3. Enhanced Security In addition to its safety benefits, laminated glass also offers enhanced security. It is difficult to break through laminated glass quickly, making it a valuable deterrent against theft and vandalism. The interlayer holds the shattered pieces together, making it challenging for criminals to gain entry into the vehicle. This added security feature is particularly crucial for protecting valuable possessions left inside the car.   Is Laminated Glass Breakable? While laminated glass is exceptionally durable and resistant to various stresses, it is not entirely indestructible. Like any material, it has limitations, and its breakability depends on several factors, including the type of impact, the thickness of the glass, and the quality of the interlayer.   1. Impact Severity The breakability of laminated glass varies with the severity of the impact. It can withstand minor impacts, such as pebbles or small debris, without breaking. However, in the case of a severe collision or a heavy object striking the windshield, the outer layers of the glass may shatter.   2. Thickness of the Glass The thickness of the laminated glass also influences its breakability. Thicker laminated glass provides greater resistance to breakage. In many modern vehicles, the windshield is composed of two layers of glass with a PVB interlayer, which makes it more robust compared to single-layer tempered glass. The additional thickness contributes to the overall strength and durability of the glass.   Maintenance and Care for Laminated Auto Glass To ensure the continued durability and safety of laminated auto glass, regular maintenance and proper care are essential. Here are some tips for maintaining your laminated auto glass:   1. Regular Cleaning: Clean the glass regularly using a mild, non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can scratch the glass or damage the interlayer.   2. Repair Chips and Cracks: If you notice small chips or cracks in the glass, it’s important to address them promptly. Laminated glass can often be repaired, preserving its structural integrity and preventing the damage from spreading.   3. Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes: Avoid subjecting your vehicle’s laminated glass to rapid temperature changes, as this can stress the glass and potentially lead to cracks.   4. Choose Professional Installation: When replacing auto glass, opt for professional installation services. Proper installation is crucial to ensuring the glass’s integrity and safety features.   Takeaway While laminated glass may break under extreme conditions, it does so in a manner that minimizes risks to passengers and provides a high level of safety. It continues to be a preferred choice in the automotive industry, playing a vital role in protecting lives on the road.

So your vehicle has a crack or a chip on the rear window? Learn the art of fixing rear window cracks and chips with professional finesse in this step-by-step guide to automotive repair by Auto Glass America.   Gather Your Tools and Materials You’ll need some basic tools and materials for this job. Here’s what you’ll need:   Windshield Repair Kit: You can find these kits at an auto parts store or online. They usually come with everything you need, including resin and applicators.   Cotton Swabs or Toothpicks: These will help you apply the resin.   Razor Blade or Scraper: You’ll use this to remove any loose glass or debris around the crack.   Clean Cloth and Glass Cleaner: You want that area to be squeaky clean.   Masking Tape: To create a barrier around the crack, keeping the resin where it should be.   Assess the Damage Take a good look at the damage. If the crack is longer than a dollar bill or if the chip is deeper than 1/8 inch, you might want to consider consulting a professional. This DIY method is best for small cracks and chips.   Clean the Area Now that you’ve ​decided to ​proceed, the first ​thing you ​need to do ​is clean ​the area around ​the crack ​or chip. Use ​your glass ​cleaner and cloth ​to make ​it as clean ​as possible. ​Get rid of ​any dirt, ​dust, or debris. ​The cleaner ​it is, the ​better your ​repair will turn out.   Create a Barrier Use your masking tape to create a barrier around the crack. This will help contain the resin and prevent it from spreading where it shouldn’t.   Remove Loose Glass and Debris If there are any loose bits of glass or debris in or around the damaged area, carefully remove them with a razor blade or scraper. You want a clean surface to work with.   Time to Apply the Resin Now it’s the fun part! Most windshield repair kits will have detailed instructions, but let me give you the gist of it.   Take one of ​the applicators ​from your kit ​and load ​it with the ​resin. Be ​sure to follow ​the manufacturer’s ​instructions.   Place the ​applicator over ​the crack or ​chip and ​make sure it’s ​centered.   Apply ​gentle pressure to ​the applicator ​to force the ​resin into ​the crack. You ​might see ​some air bubbles ​coming out ​– that’s a ​good sign. ​It means the ​resin is ​filling the space.   Let it sit in the sun for about 15-20 minutes. The UV rays will help cure the resin.   After it’s cured, remove the applicator.   Repeat the Process You might need ​to repeat ​the process a ​couple of ​times to make ​sure the ​crack or chip ​is filled ​properly. If it’s ​a chip, ​you can add ​more resin ​until it’s flush ​with the ​surface.   Scrape Off Excess Resin Once you’re satisfied with the repair, remove the masking tape and use your razor blade or scraper to carefully scrape off any excess resin. Be gentle to avoid scratching the glass.   Polish the Area To make it look as good as new, apply a bit of glass polish to the area and give it a good buff. This will help smooth out the surface and make the repair less noticeable.   After all this is done, step back and admire your handiwork! Your rear window should look a whole lot better now.   A Few Tips and Tricks It’s best to ​do this ​repair on a ​warm, sunny ​day. The UV ​rays help ​the resin cure ​properly.   Don’t ​rush through the ​process. Take ​your time to ​get it ​right.   If the ​crack or ​chip is in ​a spot ​that’s in your ​line of ​sight while driving, ​it’s better ​to consult a ​professional. Safety ​should always come first.   Some kits come with a syringe-style applicator that can create a vacuum and pressure to force the resin into the crack. This can be very effective for deep chips.   Don’t be discouraged if the repair isn’t 100% invisible. It might still be noticeable, but it should prevent the damage from spreading.   Takeaway Repairing a rear ​window crack ​or chip is ​totally doable ​with the right ​tools and ​a bit of ​patience. Not ​only will you ​save some ​money, but you’ll ​also have ​the satisfaction of ​knowing you ​fixed it yourself. ​However, it ​is best to ​get it ​checked with an ​expert technician ​as they have ​a better ​understanding of dealing with autoglass.

You might wonder, ​”How long ​does it take ​to replace ​a windshield, and ​what’s the ​deal with all ​these factors ​that come into ​play?” Well, ​you’re not alone. ​Windshield replacement ​is a rite ​of passage ​for many vehicle ​owners, and ​the time it ​takes can ​vary quite a ​bit depending ​on a bunch ​of things. ​Let’s dive into ​the fascinating ​world of windshield ​replacement and ​explore all the ​different factors ​that can affect ​how long ​you’ll be without ​your car.​   The Windshield 101 Your windshield isn’t just there to keep bugs out of your teeth. It plays a crucial role in your car’s structure and, of course, your visibility on the road. When your windshield gets banged up beyond repair, you’ve got to replace it – it’s essential for your safety.   Windshield replacement is the process of swapping out your damaged windshield for a brand-spanking-new one. Usually, this job is done by a skilled auto glass technician to make sure it’s a snug and secure fit.   Factors that influence duration of windshield repair Let’s look at the things that can make this replacement process faster or slower:   1. Type of Vehicle: Your choice of wheels makes a difference. Different vehicles have different windshield shapes and sizes. Swapping out the windshield on your compact car is usually quicker than replacing the windshield on a SUV or a luxury sedan.   2. Type of Windshield: Not all windshields are created equal. You’ve got original equipment manufacturer (OEM) windshields and aftermarket ones. OEM windshields are designed to be a perfect fit, which can speed things up. But if you go for an aftermarket windshield, it might take a bit longer to ensure it fits just right.   3. Extent of Damage: How badly is your windshield hurt? A minor chip or crack can often be patched up fast. But if it’s a big bad crack, it’s gonna need a full replacement, and that’ll naturally take longer. Plus, where the damage is on the windshield can also make the process more complicated.   4. Weather Conditions: Windshield replacements typically happen outdoors, and rain, extreme cold, or other nasty weather can slow things down. So, pick a nice sunny day for your appointment.   5. Availability of Parts: If the auto glass shop has your new windshield in stock, things can move quickly. But if they’ve got to order it or any parts, you might have to wait a few days or even a week for them to arrive.   6. Technician’s Experience and Tools: Who’s working on your car makes a difference. A seasoned technician with all the right tools can get the job done faster. So, look for a reputable auto glass shop with experienced techs for a quicker and high-quality replacement.   7. Safety Measures and Regulations: Safety is a big deal in windshield replacement. Techs must follow safety rules and regulations to ensure the windshield is securely installed. These guidelines are there to keep you safe in case of an accident, but they can add a bit of time to the process.   The Time Frame: On average, a windshield replacement takes anywhere from one to three hours. This includes getting the old windshield out, prepping your vehicle, putting the new windshield in, and letting the glue dry. But remember, this is a ballpark estimate. Your actual time might be shorter or longer.   Cost vs. Time: What about paying extra to get it done faster? Some places offer same-day or express windshield replacement for a fee. While this can cut down your waiting time, you’ve got to weigh the cost against how urgently you need it and your budget.   After the Replacement: Once the new windshield is in, you’re not quite done. The adhesive used to secure the windshield needs time to cure. The curing time depends on the type of adhesive and weather conditions. So, follow what your tech tells you about when it’s safe to hit the road.   And you might notice a few tiny differences in your new windshield. Some slight distortions or variations in tint can happen, especially if you go for an aftermarket windshield. But don’t sweat it; it’s normal and shouldn’t mess with your driving experience.   Takeaway The time it takes to replace a windshield can change a lot based on different factors. On average, plan for one to three hours, but don’t forget to consider everything that can influence the timeline. When you’ve got a damaged windshield, don’t procrastinate. Get it taken care of quickly for your safety. And when you do, choose a trustworthy auto glass shop with experienced techs for a job well done.

The windscreen or windshield is one of the most crucial parts of a vehicle, ensuring the safety of its occupants and providing clear visibility for the driver. Over time, it’s not uncommon for windscreens to accumulate chips or cracks due to debris on the road, minor accidents, or temperature fluctuations. The big question for many car owners is: how many times can a windscreen be repaired before it needs to be replaced? This is a pertinent question, especially when considering both safety and cost.   The Basics of Windscreen Repair Before delving into the number of times a windscreen can be repaired, it’s essential to understand the basics of the repair process. A windscreen chip or crack repair typically involves the injection of a special resin into the damaged area, which is then cured using ultraviolet light. This process restores the structural integrity of the glass and improves its appearance. However, the repair doesn’t make the damage disappear entirely; rather, it prevents the crack or chip from expanding.   Factors Affecting Repairs Various elements influence windscreen repair effectiveness, including damage size, location, and previous repairs, impacting decisions on repair versus replacement. Here are some factors that affect windscreen repairs.   Size and Type of Damage: Not all damages to the windscreen are repairable. Small chips, usually less than the size of a coin, can often be repaired. Cracks that are less than three inches long are also generally repairable. However, long cracks, those that reach the edge of the windscreen, or complex starburst patterns may warrant a replacement instead of a repair.   Location of Damage: Damage that is directly in the driver’s line of sight can be problematic. Even if the damage is repaired, it might still distort visibility. In such cases, replacement is often recommended. Similarly, cracks or chips close to the edge compromise the structural integrity of the windscreen, making replacement a safer option.   Number of Previous Repairs: With each repair, the windscreen may become less resilient to further damage. This doesn’t mean the repair isn’t strong, but the glass around the repaired spot could become slightly more vulnerable. If a windscreen has multiple repair spots, especially close together, it may be more prone to developing new cracks.   How Many Times Can Windscreen Be Repaired? There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Theoretically, if a windscreen keeps getting small chips or cracks in different areas, and each is repairable, then it can be repaired multiple times. However, the more practical answer would consider a combination of factors like safety, aesthetics, and the strength of the windscreen.   For safety reasons, if there are more than three or four repairs, especially in the critical vision area, replacement might be a safer bet. Multiple repairs might clutter the driver’s vision, even if each individual repair is small. It’s also worth noting that as the number of repairs increases, the overall aesthetics of the windscreen can be compromised.   When to opt for Replacement Over Repair? Beyond the number of repairs, consider these scenarios:   Depth of Damage: Modern windscreens are made up of two layers of glass with a plastic layer in between. If the damage penetrates the inner layer, a repair won’t suffice.   Edge Cracks: As previously mentioned, cracks that reach the edge of the glass can compromise its structural integrity. In such cases, a replacement is often recommended.   Contamination: If a chip or crack has been left exposed for a long time and has been contaminated by dirt, it may be challenging to achieve a clear, successful repair.   Cost Considerations: If your insurance covers windshield replacement, it might be financially wise to opt for a replacement after multiple repairs. Always check with your insurance company regarding their policy on repairs and replacements.   Takeaway Thе dеcision to rеpair or rеplacе a windshield hingе on a blеnd of factors, including thе typе, sizе, location, and numbеr of damagеs, as wеll as safеty considеrations. Whilе thеrе’s no dеfinitivе numbеr for how many timеs a windscrееn can bе rеpairеd, it’s always prudеnt to consult with profеssional tеchnicians. Thеy can assеss thе еxtеnt of thе damagе, thе quality of prеvious rеpairs, and providе guidancе on thе bеst coursе of action, еnsuring that safеty rеmains paramount.