Despite having a similar appearance, auto glass and regular glass have very distinct characteristics and manufacturing processes.
Additionally, they serve various functions and are repaired and replaced differently.
Car manufacturers use auto glass in windshields, windows, sunroofs, and even in side mirrors. But why do car manufacturers prefer auto glass over normal glass?
Auto Glass
- Auto glass is classified between tempered and laminated.
- Regular glass is softened to create tempered glass, which is then quenched—a procedure that cools the glass uniformly by blasting it with high-pressure air.
- Heat is used to attach layers of the plastic resin polyvinyl butyral (PVB) between sheets of regular glass to create laminated glass.
- Compared to regular glass, tempered glass can resist more pressure and temperature. But it is difficult to reshape after the tempering process.
- Laminated glass has many layers. It is why compared to tempered and regular glass, laminated glass is significantly stronger but lighter.
- Tempered glass with tiny chips and cracks is repaired using epoxy. But if there is a “bullseye” crack, professionals will suggest replacing it.
- Laminated glass is difficult to repair compared to tempered glass, but it is possible.
Regular Glass/ Normal Glass
- To create a regular glass or soda-lime glass, silica, sodium oxide, and calcium oxide are combined and heated in a specific furnace to about 3050 degrees Fahrenheit (1675 degrees Celsius).
- In comparison to tempered and laminated vehicle glass, regular soda-lime glass is much less expensive to make and install.
- Regular glass is used for commercial and residential purposes.
- Regular glass is not used in any car because it shatters easily.
There are many reasons why car manufacturers pick auto glass over regular ones. Because the safety of the vehicle’s occupants is the primary concern of car manufacturers, they will not use inefficient and easy-to-shatter glass. Also, it is not cost-effective.
If you want to learn more about auto glass, Imperium Auto Glass is ready to answer your queries. We are located in Houston, Texas. Visit us!