The Different Types of Windscreens

Windscreens play an important role in the functioning of any vehicle. They need to be extremely durable as well as safe so that they limit the amount of injury caused should the driver be involved in an accident.

All types of glass used in making and repairing windscreens are considered safety glass, however, there are two common variations available to purchase. We take a look at these two types of windscreen glass and explain the pros and cons of each type.

What are the different types of windscreens?

What is Laminated Windscreen Glass?

Laminated glass is where two pieces of glass are attached to one another using polyvinyl butyral (PVB) which is a type of transparent plastic. Extreme heat and high pressure is applied to the windscreen which in turn fuses the PVB and the sheets of glass together.

There are several benefits to using laminated glass for windscreens. A major plus point is that the vinyl prevents the glass from shattering should the car be involved in a collision. This prevents all manner of injuries that would normally be associated with shattering glass.

Another benefit is that it helps to protect drivers who are not wearing a seat belt by acting as a barrier if they are thrown forward onto the windscreen.

What car window is laminated glass used for?

Laminated glass is most commonly used in all types of vehicles because of its safety properties. Most often it is used to make the windscreen and on some occasions it is used for the side windows and back windows too. Outside of the automobile industry laminated glass is used on store fronts or areas in the home where it could be potentially broken in an accident.

What is Tempered Glass?

The other type of glass that is used is tempered glass, which is a glass that is harder and stronger than standard glass. This type of glass undergoes a process that involves rapid heating and cooling which makes the glass break into lots of pebble like pieces should it be broken.

These pieces are dull, rather than sharp, so they won’t cause any harm to passengers in the vehicle if it shatters.

What car window is tempered glass used for?

In the automobile industry the tempered glass is often used on the side and back windows. Other uses for tempered glass include telephone boxes, polarized sunglasses, cooking dishes, and some mobile phone screens.

A downside of tempered glass is that it can not be repaired, instead the entire window needs to be replaced. Laminated glass however can be fixed if it experiences minor damage.

Other windscreen types

In addition to the windscreens outlined above, some specialist types of glass can be used for vehicles. Usually, these types of glass are not installed on standard vehicles, but they may be required for certain environments. 

These include:

Polarised windscreens 

A polarised windscreen includes a specialist film that is embedded within the glass. This film uses tiny crystals which help to filter out light and reduce glare, improving the driver’s vision. 

Overall, the purpose of a polarised windscreen is to enhance visibility, and while not as commonplace as laminated or tempered glass, it is becoming increasingly popular. 

UV-protected windscreens 

The purpose of UV-protected windscreens is to block harmful ultraviolet radiation (UV) from the sun from entering a vehicle. In particular, UVA rays can cause sunburn, premature skin ageing and even skin cancer. UV-protected windscreens reduce these risks and are being incorporated into more and more vehicles. 

Bulletproof glass

Bulletproof glass is made by combining multiple layers of laminated glass to create a strong surface. Also combined with a thermoplastic material, this barrier is able to withstand bullets and can be made up to 3.5 inches thick.

This glass is typically used for military vehicles, armoured vehicles or vehicles that are going to be entering a hostile environment, where its occupants need protection. 

Importance of Windscreen Care

Regardless of what type of glass you have, it is essential that you take care of your windscreen at all times. You should regularly inspect it to see if you can spot any hairline cracks or slight chips. Should you notice any issues with your windscreen then you will need to get the windscreen repaired as soon as possible.

Failure to do so could result in the glass cracking or shattering while you are out on the road, something that could put your life and the lives of others at risk.

A quick call to the windscreen repair specialists at The Windscreen Company, will ensure the damage is quickly remedied, and it the damage is extensive you can rely on an affordable and speedy windscreen replacement so you can get back on the road.