The Different Types of Windscreens

Windscreens play an important role in the functioning of any vehicle. They need to be extremely durable as well as safe so that they limit the amount of injury caused should the driver be involved in an accident.

All types of glass used in making windscreens are considered safety glass, however, there are two common variations available to purchase. We take a look at these two types of windscreen glass and explain the pros and cons of each type.

What are the different types of windscreens?

What is Laminated Windscreen Glass?

Laminated glass is where two pieces of glass are attached to one another using polyvinyl butyral (PVB) which is a type of transparent plastic. Extreme heat and high pressure is applied to the windscreen which in turn fuses the PVB and the sheets of glass together.

There are several benefits to using laminated glass for windscreens. A major plus point is that the vinyl prevents the glass from shattering should the car be involved in a collision. This prevents all manner of injuries that would normally be associated with shattering glass.

Another benefit is that it helps to protect drivers who are not wearing a seat belt by acting as a barrier if they are thrown forward onto the windscreen.

What car window is laminated glass used for?

Laminated glass is most commonly used in all types of vehicles because of its safety properties. Most often it is used to make the windscreen and on some occasions it is used for the side windows and back windows too. Outside of the automobile industry laminated glass is used on store fronts or areas in the home where it could be potentially broken in an accident.

What is Tempered Glass?

The other type of glass that is used is tempered glass, which is a glass that is harder and stronger than standard glass. This type of glass undergoes a process that involves rapid heating and cooling which makes the glass break into lots of pebble like pieces should it be broken.

These pieces are dull, rather than sharp, so they won’t cause any harm to passengers in the vehicle if it shatters.

What car window is tempered glass used for?

In the automobile industry the tempered glass is often used on the side and back windows. Other uses for tempered glass include telephone boxes, polarized sunglasses, cooking dishes, and some mobile phone screens.

A downside of tempered glass is that it can not be repaired, instead the entire window needs to be replaced. Laminated glass however can be fixed if it experiences minor damage.

Importance of Windscreen Care

Regardless of what type of glass you have, it is essential that you take care of your windscreen at all times. You should regularly inspect it to see if you can spot any hairline cracks or slight chips. Should you notice any issues with your windscreen then you will need to get the windscreen repaired as soon as possible.

Failure to do so could result in the glass cracking or shattering while you are out on the road, something that could put your life and the lives of others at risk.

A quick call to the windscreen repair specialists at The Windscreen Company, will ensure the damage is quickly remedied, and it the damage is extensive you can rely on an affordable and speedy replacement so you can get back on the road.