What Makes Auto Glass So Special?
There are 2 kinds of auto glass, these are tempered and laminated glass. Tempered glass, normally installed in the back and side windows of a vehicle, is put through a special process, where it will be heated and then cooled rapidly. Laminated safety glass, which is normally installed in windshields is 2 thin pieces of glass, that have a layer of vinyl in between. It is heated and pressed together in an autoclave.
Both of these glasses are stronger and impact-resistant than traditional glass. When tempered glass is hit, it does shatter, however, it shatters and hits the floor in pieces that have no sharp edges. When laminated safety glass is hit, it shatters also, however, the pieces will stick to the vinyl, and not hit the floor.
When an accident occurs, auto glass can sometimes be damaged and need replacing, however, this is not the only way a glass replacement will be needed. Gravel which is kicked up from the road can cause chips or a small vein on a windshield. Over a period of time, vibration will cause the vein to start to spread out. Within some states, driving with a damaged windscreen will ensure a ticket is issued.
Most people are pleasantly surprised by how easy it is to have their windshield replaced. Auto specialists do this on a daily basis and can either come to your home or business to do it. The wipers, cowl, and molding will be removed first, after which the damaged windshield will be lifted out. Any old adhesive will be cleaned off too. Once this is done, a new adhesive will then be applied to hold the new windshield in place. The cowl, molding, and wipers will be also replaced, the whole job will take no more than an hour. However, you should not drive your car for at least 1 hour, this will give the adhesive time to properly cure.
Call Alliance Glass & Mirror Santa Fe today at (505) 544-4662 if you need your auto glass replaced or repaired. We are based in Santa Fe, NM.
