Windshields
were a Luxury
In the
early days of automobiles, windshields were a luxury. Windshields were an
optional and extra feature that could be purchased for cars. If you could spare
the extra money you could purchase a windshield for your vehicle. If not, then
goggles and scarves would be your only protection against wind and other
elements.
The Origin of the Shatterproof Windshield
Originally,
windshields were just made out of normal glass and could easily shatter upon
impact. It wasn’t until the early 20th century
that the shatterproof laminated glass used in windshields today was invented. A
French chemist by the name of Edouard Benedictus invented shatter-resistant
glass. It wasn’t used in automobiles until the 1920s.
Windshield
Wipers invented by a Woman
A woman named Mary Anderson invented windshield wipers in 1903.
She was in New York City and noticed that a trolly car could not keep the
falling snow cleared from its windshield, so she applied for a patent to create
the early version of the windshield wiper.
Temperature is the Windshield’s Enemy
Temperature is not good for a windshield. It may be tempting to
pour hot water on your cold windshield to help speed up the defrosting process
but do not do this. It will cause the windshield to crack or break. The extreme
temperature difference causes the glass to expand and then ultimately, crack.
Repairing a Windshield isn’t so bad
Repairing
a windshield isn’t as difficult as you might think. Yes, it can be a pain, but
if you get it looked at right away it is a relatively simple process. If you
get a crack or chip in your window visit the experts in the RichmondHill auto glass area
to see what they can do for you.
Windshield Claims
Thirty percent of auto insurance claims are for windshields.
This is isn’t surprising considering all we expose our vehicles to. There are
the hazards and dangers of daily driving, weather, and other factors that all
contribute to windshield damage.
Technology to repair Windshields
Technology that is capable of repairing cracks up to a foot and
even longer has been in the market since 1990. So be leery of auto glass shops
that say they cannot repair a crack because of its length only. If no other
factors are an issue then a longer crack should also be repairable.
Chips don’t always become cracks
90% of stone breaks never crack. This is interesting to note,
but it is still a good idea to have a stone break looked at if it is in your
line of vision or in another area of the windshield where it is a safety
hazard.
Windshield replacements are more dangerous
In the 30 year history of windshield repairs there has never
been a lawsuit or injury reported from a windshield repair. There have been
numerous injuries, deaths and lawsuits from windshield replacements.
Damaged windshields can be illegal
In some places driving with a damaged windshield is illegal. You
can be ticketed for it. This is particularly true if the damage affects your
ability to see properly while driving.
Early windshields were unsafe
Early windshields were made out of plate glass and therefore
very unsafe. They weren’t shatterproof like the windshields of today. Early
windshields were also made in sections instead of being one big large piece of
glass.
Do your research
If you
are in need of having a stone chip or crack replaced it is best to do your
research about where you are going to take it to have the work done. Ask many Richmond
Hill auto glass shops
for information before deciding which shop is best for you. Not all auto glass
shops are as professional and knowledgeable as they claim to be. Auto Glass
Changers is a great place to go.
Window Tint can help protect your windshield
Window tinting can help to increase the safety of your
windshield. It can help protect it from the damaging rays of the sun, and can
also allow some protection from stone chips and other debris.
Tempered glass
The majority of side and back windows of vehicles are made from
tempered glass. This glass is manufactured using a rapid heating and cooling
process. If broken, tempered glass will break into very small pebble-like
pieces and is less likely to cause serious injury.
Windshields support airbag deployment
In many vehicles, the windshield supports the passenger side
airbag upon deployment. The improper replacement of your windshield could
affect the airbag’s ability to deploy properly causing serious injury to your
passenger.
Windshields support your roof
The windshield supports the roof by preserving the integrity of
the passenger compartment. It keeps it from collapsing and crushing the driver
or passengers. If you think of this fact then you can see why proper windshield
repair and replacement is imperative for safety reasons.
Windshields cushion the blow
Windshields are meant to keep you inside the vehicle, but if you
are thrown forward during a crash the windshield will cushion the blow.
Windshields are made from two layers of glass around a layer of polyvinyl
material. The glass will break but the inner layer is meant to be flexible and
will cushion the impact.
Urethane Adhesives
Urethane adhesives are what are used to attach your windshield
to the body of your vehicle. These adhesives come in various types with
different bonding characteristics.
You can prevent auto glass damage
There are many ways to prevent auto glass damage. The number one
way is to keep your distance when driving behind other vehicles. Most often
stone chips occur when drivers are following too closely and a rock is flung up
from the vehicle in front of them. It is recommended that you try to stay back
four car lengths. Another tip is to try to avoid parking at the side of the
road. This is often when a stone will fly up and hit your windshield. Another
thing you can do is to try to avoid construction areas. If you can do so then
you should plan your routes ahead of time so as to avoid construction.
Size does not matter
The size
of your stone chip or crack does not matter when it comes to replacement or
repair. All types of cracks can lead to replacement. If you aren’t diligent
when it comes to have a stone chip or crack looked at immediately it could
result in the need for replacement. Consult with your RichmondHill auto glass shop
to determine if repair or replacement is the best method for your situation.
Windshields do more than shield wind
Windshields do so much more than shield wind. They are a huge
factor in maintaining your safety when you operate your vehicle. They
contribute to keeping the structure of your overall vehicle, they help support
airbag function, and they help protect you from the elements and debris that
could come flying your way. It is important to realize the importance of your
windshield and to take the steps to properly maintain it. You should frequently
examine your windshield for any irregularities and also inspect your wiper
blades frequently. Why would you not want to help protect one of your vehicles
biggest assets? Your safety on the road is important to both you and the other
driver’s around you.
For more interesting tip and tricks, call Auto Glass Changers
today.
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