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ANSI/AGRSS 002-2002 is often called as AGRSS. It stands for the Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standards. Developed by the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standards Council, this standard provides guidelines to ensure that automotive glass replacements are done safely and efficiently. Here’s all the standard operating procedure laid down in terms of safety and regulations:   Scope and Purpose of ANSI/AGRSS 002-2014 The scope of Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard aka ANSI/AGRSS 002-2002 is to develop and publish nationally recognized automotive glass replacement safety standards addressing procedures, education, and product performance.   Here are purpose rules laid down in ANSI/AGRSS 002-2002   To improve the performance and practices of industry technicians and raise their level of professionalism. To guide the industry in auto glass replacement procedures that meets the pertinent Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard requirements. To provide guidelines and objectives for groups that supply products, education, and training for the industry. To promote public awareness of the need for safe installation procedures, which will reduce the risk of personal injury and/or death from traffic accidents. To provide a comprehensive auto glass replacement standard. To achieve a higher degree of consistency among installation practices. To create an automotive glass installation benchmark for anyone engaged in the replacement of automotive glass.   Adhesive Bonding The guideline states that those engaged in auto glass replacement shall follow the adhesive manufacturer’s application instructions as provided by the manufacturer directly, or through the private labeler. Products must be stored and controlled according to manufacturers’ requirements as provided directly or through a private labeler. No automotive glass replacement shall be undertaken using an adhesive glass retention bonding system that would not achieve minimum drive-away strength by the time the vehicle may be reasonably expected to be operated.   Adhesive must be applied so that the finished bead cross section profile and dimensions meet or exceed original equipment configuration.   If the OEM installation was polyurethane, then the glass must be replaced with polyurethane or an equivalent adhesive bonding system. If the OEM installation was butyl, polysulfide, or other non-polyurethane, and the vehicle is licensed for highway use, adhesive bonded stationary glass installations shall be performed using polyurethane or an equivalent retention system unless in conflict with current OEM specifications.   Vehicle Preparation The standard guideline says that those engaged in automotive glass replacement shall not undertake or complete such installation when any related condition would compromise the retention system and the owner/operator shall be so notified.   Selection of Materials The guidelines states that those engaged in automotive glass replacement shall use retention systems that are produced under documented quality assurance standards. Those engaged in automotive glass replacement shall use glass products meeting the requirements of ANSI Z26.l as required by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 205. Those engaged in auto glass replacement must use either an OEM approved retention system or equivalent retention system as certified in writing by the equivalent retention system manufacturer directly or through a private labeler.   Those engaged in automotive glass replacement shall obtain and follow written comprehensive and current application instructions from the retention systems manufacturer or private labeler. These instructions shall include at least the proper use of the retention system storage specifications, minimum drive-away time charts containing temperature and humidity variables if applicable, and any special procedures required for adverse weather conditions. Those engaged in automotive glass replacement shall require that lot numbers and expiration dates be printed on appropriate products.   Post-installation Instructions The guideline has specifically instructed that the vehicle owner and operator shall be advised of the minimum drive-away time under the circumstances of the replacement. Once the replacement process is complete, technicians are responsible for guiding vehicle owners on post-installation precautions. This includes advising on the necessary duration to refrain from driving, ensuring the adhesive sets properly. Moreover, owners should be briefed on the care measures, like abstaining from cleaning or exerting pressure on the freshly installed glass. It’s equally important to educate them on potential warning signs like unexpected leaks or noises, which could signify issues with the installation.   Inspection and Verification Upon completion of the glass replacement, a thorough inspection is necessary to confirm compliance with AGRSS safety standards. Establishments or technicians aligned with AGRSS might be subject to routine evaluations to validate their conformity to these standards. Maintaining detailed records of every installation, encompassing the materials utilized, technician information, and specific vehicle data, is pivotal for addressing any subsequent installation concerns.   Proper Training Technicians installing replacement automotive glass shall be fully qualified for the tasks they are required to perform. Such qualifications shall include, at a minimum, completion of a comprehensive training program with a final exam and a continuing education component.   Takeaway Automotive Glass Replacement ​Safety Standards ​are pivotal in ​ensuring the ​safety and well-being ​of vehicle ​occupants. These standards, ​meticulously crafted ​and regularly updated, ​guarantee that ​replacement glass meets ​the highest ​quality, strength, and ​clarity specifications, ​matching or even ​surpassing the ​performance of the ​original glass. ​Adhering to these ​standards not ​only upholds the ​structural integrity ​of the vehicle ​but also ​ensures that drivers ​maintain clear ​visibility under diverse ​conditions.

The windscreen is one of the most essential components of a vehicle. It provides drivers with clear visibility and offers protection from the external environment. However, despite its importance, windscreens are susceptible to damage from flying debris, temperature changes, or accidents. One common question among vehicle owners is, “Is the windscreen covered by insurance?” Let’s delve into this query in more detail.   Types of Windscreen Damage Before diving into insurance, it’s essential to understand the kinds of windscreen damage that can occur. There are primarily two types:   Chips: These are small dings or marks caused by stones, pebbles, or minor debris hitting the windscreen.   Cracks: A more severe form of damage, cracks can extend over a larger area and compromise the windscreen’s structural integrity.   Insurance Coverage for Windscreens Many factors determine whether your windscreen is covered by insurance:   Type of Insurance Policy: Not all car insurance policies automatically cover windscreen repair or replacement. There are primarily three kinds of insurance policies:   Third-Party Only (TPO): This is the most fundamental kind of insurance protection, and it typically pays for any harm you cause to other people’s cars or property. In general, it does not cover harm to your own car, including windshield damage.   Third-Party, Fire, and Theft (TPFT): In addition to third-party coverage, TPFT will also cover damages from fire or if your car gets stolen. However, windscreen damages might still be excluded.   Comprehensive Insurance: This type of insurance offers the widest coverage, including damages to your car from accidents, theft, fire, and more. Most comprehensive insurance policies include windscreen cover, but it’s crucial to check the details of the policy.   Windscreen Cover as an Add-On: Many insurers offer windscreen damage as an additional protection or add-on if your insurance policy does not already automatically cover it. This implies that adding your windscreen to the coverage might need you to pay an additional price.   Excess: Even if windscreen damage is covered, there might be an excess – a predetermined amount you must pay before the insurer covers the rest. Some policies might have a lower excess for windscreen claims compared to other claims.   Claim Limit: Some policies may have a limit on the amount you can claim for auto glass repair or replacement. If the cost of the repair exceeds this limit, you’ll be responsible for the additional amount.   Impact on No Claims Bonus: A significant concern for many drivers is whether claiming for a windscreen repair or replacement will impact their no claims bonus (NCB). Some policies guarantee that windscreen claims won’t affect your NCB, but it’s essential to confirm this with your insurer.   Benefits of Windscreen Coverage Having windscreen coverage can be beneficial for several reasons:   Safety: A damaged windscreen can impair visibility and compromise safety. Being able to repair or replace it without worrying about the cost ensures that drivers can always maintain their vehicle’s safety.   Cost-Efficiency: Repairing or replacing a windscreen out-of-pocket can be expensive. Insurance coverage can save you from these unexpected costs.   Convenience: Many insurers have tie-ups with windscreen repair services, providing easy and hassle-free repairs or replacements.   No Impact on No-Claims Bonus: Some insurance policies allow for windscreen repair or replacement without it affecting the no-claims bonus or discount of the insured.   Comprehensive Protection: Windscreen coverage often comes as a part of comprehensive insurance, ensuring that not only is your windscreen covered, but other damages to the vehicle are too.   Potential for Zero Deductible: Some policies may offer windscreen repair with zero deductible, which means no out-of-pocket cost for the repair.   Points to Consider Before deciding on windscreen coverage:   Evaluate the Cost: Weigh the cost of adding windscreen coverage against the potential repair or replacement costs. If you drive frequently in areas with lots of debris or are prone to windscreen damages, the coverage might be worth it.   Check for Repair First: Often, minor chips or dings can be repaired rather than replacing the entire windscreen. Many insurers offer free windshield replacement or repairs if you have the appropriate coverage, ensuring the longevity of your windscreen without incurring replacement costs.   Read the Fine Print: As with all insurance matters, it’s essential to read the policy details carefully. This ensures you know the exact coverage, any excesses, claim limits, and other crucial terms.   Takeaway Whether your windscreen is covered by insurance largely depends on the type of policy you have and its specific terms. If safety, convenience, and cost-efficiency are priorities, it’s wise to ensure your windscreen is covered. Always make an informed decision by discussing with your insurance provider and understanding your policy’s details.

Window tinting provides dual benefits for your car: it blocks harmful UV rays, protecting your interior and skin while adding a sleek, polished look.   However, even the best-applied tint can develop unsightly bubbles, ruining its appearance and reducing its effectiveness. This not only diminishes the tint’s visual appeal but also compromises its ability to provide proper UV protection and insulation. Read on as we explore how to fix a bubble in window tint and restore the latter to its pristine state.   What Are Window Tint Bubbles? Window tint bubbles are hideous bulges or bumps forming beneath a car’s window tint film. Air pockets and bubbles may appear due to incorrect application techniques or insufficient preparation of the window surface.   In inferior tint materials, their lack of durability and flexibility makes them more susceptible to bubbling. Newly installed window tint may have temporary water bubbles that typically disappear as the tint cures.   However, bubbles that persist after the curing process indicate a significant underlying issue. Learning how to fix bubble tint can eliminate the need for a full replacement.   Common Causes of Window Tint Bubbles Identifying the causes allows you to understand how to fix bubble-tinted windows and address them effectively if they appear.   1. Installation-Related Issues Inadequate glass surface pretreatment or incorrect installation techniques might cause bubbles to appear in the window tint. The tint film may stretch and compress unevenly if it gets hot during installation.   This results in spots and air pockets susceptible to bubbling. Being inattentive when installing the tint can cause air, mist, or dirt to get caught behind it.   If the tint film is not precisely cut to fit the window, gaps or air cavities may form in the film’s adhesion. In addition, overstretching or straining the tint film during installation causes uneven application and perhaps even traps air bubbles.   2. Low-Quality Tint Material Using pre-cut tint kits, often made from lower-quality materials, can increase the risk of bubbling. Low-quality tint films are more likely to develop air pockets as their less durable glue leads to poor adhesion. These tint films may lack UV inhibitors, leading to color fading over time resulting in fading and reduced performance.   3. Environmental Factors Extended exposure to the sun’s UV rays is bound to degrade the adhesive on your window tint. It can lose its ability to hold onto the window glass, leading to air pockets and ugly bubbles.   Bubbles surfacing on your window tint after a prolonged period may indicate adhesive failure. Heavy rain, humidity, or frequent car washes can introduce excessive moisture, weakening this adhesive’s hold. Moreover, faulty seals or leaks in your car windows allow moisture to seep in and accumulate beneath the tint.   4. Physical Damage When the tint layer lifts or separates from the glass due to strikes from debris or hail, bubbles may form. Abrasions or scratches may cause the tint film to become less bonded to the glass, resulting in weak spots where bubbles may appear. To avoid damaging the tint layer and creating bubbles, do not clean your windows with harsh or abrasive solutions.   5. Water and Soap Bubbles Persistent window tint bubbles after installation are probably caused by air or soap bubbles trapped beneath the film during installation. Blistering, often known as water bubbles, is a typical phenomenon that occurs when window tint first cures. As the film dries and sticks to the glass, these bubbles usually go away. These bubbles might not disappear but may get smaller over time.   How to Fix a Bubble in Window Tint? If you are wondering how to fix a bubble in window tint, there are a few simple steps you can follow.   Step 1. Apply Heat Before beginning, ensure a warm environment. Use a heater in your garage to keep the window tint from cooling down too quickly in cold weather; otherwise, the material may get damaged. Once heated, use a heat gun or hairdryer to uniformly heat the affected region of the window tint. The tint will become more pliable, facilitating bubble removal. Excessive heat can harm the tint, so be cautious not to overheat.   Step 2. Apply Soapy Solution Combine dish soap and water in a spray bottle. Before adding the soapy water, ensure the tint is still warm from the prior heating process. The heat softens the adhesive, while the soapy water helps lubricate it to reduce friction.   Step 3. Puncture the Bubbles Carefully Using a fine needle or air-release pen, gently puncture the center of each bubble. Avoid applying excessive force to prevent damaging the tint film or the window glass. Throughout the process, keep the affected area moist with the soapy water solution.   Step 4. Smooth Out the Bubbles Make punctures in the bubbles and carefully remove any remaining film with a squeegee or credit card. Firm pressure should be applied steadily while holding the instrument at a 45-degree angle. To discharge any residual air, go from the farthest border of the bubble toward the puncture point.   Preventing Window Tint Bubbles Preventing them is just as important as knowing how to fix bubbles in tinted windows.   Avoid Extreme Temperatures Bubbles in window tint can occur from extreme heat or cold. Park your automobile in a shaded area during inclement weather to protect the tint from temperature fluctuations.   Regular Cleaning and Maintenance Use ammonia-free, mild cleaning solutions and a soft cloth to clean your tinted windows regularly. Avoid harsh chemicals that can erode the tint film. Periodically check for any signs of damage or wear on the tint film. Address any issues promptly to prevent further problems.   Professional Installation Preventing window tint bubbles begins with choosing a qualified professional for installation. Professional installers ensure proper installation techniques and typically use high-quality tint materials, less likely to bubble, for a flawless finish.   Choosing the Right Tint Avoid cutting corners with cheap window tint. Invest in premium window tints made especially for automobile use to guarantee effectiveness and long-lasting results. A tint composed of durable materials and long-lasting adhesive can reduce the chances of bubbling.   Proper Preparation Prior to installation, your car’s windows and surrounding area must be dust—and debris-free. Tint film precisely cut to fit your windows can prevent air pockets and uneven application.   Conclusion Although driving with window tint bubbles is theoretically possible, it is strongly discouraged. You run the risk of unintentionally doing more harm if you try to repair window tint bubbles yourself without exercising caution.   Overheating the tint or surrounding rubber can lead to additional repair costs. Moreover, persistent window tint bubbles may require professional reinstallation to eliminate them. Save time and effort by entrusting your window tinting to an experienced professional. As Florida’s leading auto glass authority, Auto Glass America offers timely, reliable, and affordable solutions. Our mobile service experts come directly to you, providing superior quality windshield and side window repair and replacement service using premium materials. Contact Auto Glass America to book a service or get a quote now!