Your car’s windshield is more than just a piece of glass; it’s a vital safety component engineered to protect you and your passengers from the elements and potential hazards on the road. Let’s delve into the world of windshield glass, exploring its composition, how it breaks safely, features that enhance its strength, and the process of replacing a windshield on your car.
What is Windshield Glass Made Of?
The seemingly ordinary glass on your windshield is a marvel of engineering. It’s not your typical single-pane glass; it’s a laminated glass sandwich. Two layers of specially treated glass are bonded together with a strong and transparent plastic interlayer, typically made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB).
How Does Laminated Glass Keep You Safe?
The laminated design is the secret behind the windshield’s remarkable safety features. When struck by an object, the PVB interlayer traps the broken glass pieces within the sandwich, preventing them from shattering into dangerous shards that could spray into the vehicle. This provides continued visibility for the driver and helps maintain the structural integrity of the roof in case of a rollover accident.
Additional Safety Features of Windshield Glass
Modern windshields incorporate additional features to enhance safety and functionality. Tinting reduces glare from sunlight and oncoming headlights, improving visibility and reducing eye strain. UV Protection shields occupants from harmful ultraviolet rays. Some windshields even house embedded radio antenna wires for improved reception.
When Does a Windshield Need Replacing?
Even the most robust windshield can’t withstand everything. With the average windshield lasting between 8 and 10 years, you’ll eventually need to replace it on your vehicle.
Some major red flags that your windshield is overdue for a replacement include cracks or chips larger than the size of a quarter, multiple cracks, hazing and cloudiness that reduces clarity.
If you need a state inspection and are worried about your cracked windshield. The windshield wipers, not the windshield itself are inspected during the process.
Windshield Wipers at Kwik Kar
With proper care, you can help your windshield last longer. Avoid slamming car doors, to prevent pressure cracks from forming around the windshield. Park in shaded areas whenever possible to minimize sun damage and use the appropriate cleaning products, designed for windshields, to avoid scratches and hazing.
Windshield wipers are made of synthetic polyisoprene or rubber and contain metal parts. Over time, the rubber can become brittle and cracked from exposure to the Texas sun and weather. The metal parts can also wear out and break. If you’re in need of windshield wipers, look no further than Kwik Kar.
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