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While most drivers think there is only one type of windshield and auto glass, there are actually two different types of glass used in vehicles- laminated and tempered. There are similarities between the materials but also key differences that can impact the safety of your vehicle and the cost of repairs. It’s important for drivers to know the difference between the two types of glass and when each should be used.
In this article, we’ll explain what laminated and tempered glass is and the differences between repairing them. We’ll also discuss why it’s important to hire a professional for auto glass repairs.
What is Laminated Glass?
Laminated glass is made up of two or more pieces of glass that are sandwiched together with a thin layer of plastic or vinyl. This type of glass is often used in windshields and other vehicle windows because it is more shatter-resistant than tempered glass. If the glass does break, it will usually break into small pieces rather than large shards.
When a windshield is made from laminated glass, it is usually referred to as “safety glass.” Laminated glass is also used in some skylights and storefronts.
What is Tempered Glass?
Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that is treated with heat or chemicals to make it stronger than regular glass. This process makes the outer surface of the glass very hard while the inner surface remains soft. As a result, tempered glass will break into small, harmless pieces if it is damaged.
While tempered glass is more durable than regular glass, it can still break if it is hit with a lot of force. For this reason, tempered glass is often used in car windows that are not as likely to be hit by debris, such as windows.
The Differences Between Laminated and Tempered Glass
Now that we’ve explained what laminated and tempered glass is, let’s discuss the key differences between the two materials.
Differences in Composition
The biggest difference between laminated and tempered glass is their composition. Laminated glass is made up of two or more layers of glass that are sandwiched together with a thin layer of plastic or vinyl. Tempered glass, on the other hand, is a single piece of glass that has been treated with heat or chemicals to make it stronger.
This difference in composition makes laminated glass more shatter-resistant than tempered glass. If either type of glass is hit with a lot of force, it will break. However, laminated glass will usually break into small pieces, while tempered glass will break into small, harmless pieces.
Differences in Cost
Another difference between laminated and tempered glass is the cost of repairs. Laminated glass is more expensive to repair than tempered glass because it is made up of multiple layers. Tempered glass is less expensive to repair because it is a single piece of glass.
Differences in Safety
The final difference between laminated and tempered glass is safety. Laminated glass is more likely to stay in place if it breaks, while tempered glass will break into small pieces. This makes laminated glass the safer option for windshields and other windows that are more likely to be hit by debris.
Best Repair Options for Each Material
Now that we’ve discussed the key differences between laminated and tempered glass, let’s talk about the best repair options for each material.
For laminated glass, the best repair option is usually to replace the entire piece of glass. This is because laminated glass is made up of multiple layers, and it can be difficult to replace just one layer. Replacing the entire piece of glass is more expensive than repairing tempered glass, but it will ensure that your windshield or other window is safe and shatter-resistant.
For tempered glass, the best repair option is usually to replace the broken piece with a new piece of tempered glass. This is because tempered glass is a single piece of glass, and it is easy to replace just the broken piece. Replacing the entire piece of glass is also an option, but it is not necessary.
Replacing a broken piece of laminated glass is more expensive than replacing a broken piece of tempered glass. However, laminated glass is more shatter-resistant, so it is the safer option for windshields and other windows that are more likely to be hit by debris.
Avoid DIY Auto Glass Repairs
No matter what type of glass you have, it is important to avoid DIY auto glass repairs. Replacing a windshield or other window is a difficult and dangerous task that should only be performed by a trained professional. Attempting to repair your own windshield can void your warranty, and it could put you and your passengers at risk if the glass breaks during the repair process.
If you need to have your windshield or other window replaced, be sure to contact a trained professional who has experience performing auto glass repairs. They will have the tools and knowledge necessary to safely and correctly replace your windshield or other window. Hiring a professional for auto glass repairs will ensure that your vehicle is safe and that the repair is done correctly.
Questions to Consider When Hiring a Repair Company
-What experience does the company have repairing laminated and tempered glass?
-Is the company licensed and insured?
-Does the company have a warranty on their repairs?
-Will the company provide a written estimate before performing the repairs?
-How long will the repairs take?
-Are the repairs guaranteed?
-What is the company’s payment policy?
-Is the company available 24/7 in case of an emergency?
When contacting a repair company, be sure to ask these questions to ensure that you are hiring a qualified and reputable company.
Be Sure to Schedule Repairs Promptly
If your windshield or other window is damaged, it is important to schedule repairs as soon as possible. Waiting too long to have the repairs done could increase the risk of further damage and could also lead to a higher cost for repairs.
Auto glass repairs should always be performed by a trained professional. If you need to have your windshield or other window repaired, be sure to contact our reputable repair company today.