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Broken Windshields and Windshield Replacements - Questions & Answers

By gguild | April 23, 2008

Sometimes frequently asked questions about windshield replacements outnumber the not-too-frequently responded answers.

When it comes to auto windshield repairs or windshield replacements, there are no shortages of frequently asked questions. Fixing broken windshields is probably something of a mystery to most of us. We hear how important a good, professional installation is, but usually we don’t understand why it is so important.

Here are some of the frequently asked questions that are not frequently answered about windshield replacements:

Is it possible for an individual to replace his own broken windshield? Can you tell me how to replace a windshield?

Possible? Yes. Advisable? Definitely not! Automobile windshield replacement is a multi-step process and within each of the steps in the process there is a potential for weakening the overall installation. A windshield replacement that is not properly installed can cause air-bag failure due to popping out the windshield upon deployment. It will also weaken the structural integrity of the roof allowing a cave-in during an accident. Windshields should be replaced by NGA certified windshield replacement technicians at an NGA certified windshield repair center. Learn about proper windshield replacements and how to replace a windshield.

Are all windshields manufactured to the same government standards?

In fact, there are no government standards for windshield manufacture. There are simply two standards: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) windshields and auto glass and after-market. The same companies that manufacture the windshields that automobile makers install in new cars at the factory manufacture OEM windshields. The specifications are detailed and strict. As an original equipment manufacturer, the glassmakers have access to those specifications. Other after-market manufacturers can only attempt to back-engineer the specifications from a sample of the glass and they don’t really make a very strenuous attempt. The reason for this is simply money. The goal of after-market, non-OEM manufacturers is to provide a low-cost, high-profit product. OEM windshields and auto glass just make sense.

When are windshield repairs a better alternative to windshield replacements?

If the windshield damage covers an area not in the driver’s line of sight, not bigger than about 1 inch in diameter, and has not damaged the laminate layer of the glass, then the windshield may be repaired. Typically, dings and chips are best repaired. However, if the damage impairs the driver’s line of sight, then insurance companies will recommend replacement most of the time.

Is it possible to tell inferior windshield replacements from proper windshield replacements?

Unfortunately, not until it is too late. The only way you can be assured that an installation is done properly is by checking on the installation technicians and facilities to see that they are both NGA certified. Some examples of problems of improper installations include:

Wrong adhesive material = too rigid and the glass will crack under stress; too lax and the glass will pop-out under stress. Many disreputable installers are known to use glass putty and caulking materials. Such materials endanger your lives in an accident as the will not hold the glass in place.
Poor-quality glass products = the worst culprit to your safety is non-OEM, after-market, imported glass. This type of windshield replacement is to OEM glass what counterfeit currency is to real money, with the difference being the failure of the glass in your windshield could easily cost you your life. There are a lot of overseas glass manufacturers that produce windshield glass that looks like the real thing but does not meet any of the specifications of windshield glass as you find installed on new cars.
Careless preparation of work area = The bonding surface must be clean, clear and even. The old bonding material must be trimmed to less than 1/16 of an inch, primed for the adhesive and adhesive spread smoothly and evenly for a perfectly even bond to the glass. If not, then everything else is for nothing. After all, an automobile windshield is a safety device.

No matter how long of an article we write, we could never cover all the questions you might have. The best way to get your questions answered is to use this site to help you seek out NGA certified windshield replacements shops closest to you. Not only can they honestly answer your questions but can also show you elements of the process. Also, use this site and its articles to answer your other questions about windshield replacement and windshield repair and other interesting facts about this specialty glass market.

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