Laminate vs. Tempered Windshields for Cars: Which One to Choose

When choosing the right windshield for your car, it's essential to consider the differences between laminate and tempered glass. While both types of windshields offer protection from the elements, they have distinct advantages and disadvantages that should be taken into account before making a decision. So what are the differences between laminated vs. tempered windshields? Let's explore the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed choice. It's important to understand that two different kinds of auto glass - with very different purposes - are available on the market. Let's dive into this blog to dig out more.

Laminate vs. Tempered Windshields for Cars 

Tempered Glass 

In a tempering furnace, a pre-cut, standard piece of glass is first heated and then rapidly cooled to create tempered glass, also known as toughened glass. It is heated to around 1200°F, where the pre-cut and edged piece of glass is inserted into the furnace. Following the heating process of the glass, the glass is cooled rapidly after being heated. Quenching is the term used to describe this process.   As a result of the quenching process, a piece of glass becomes four to five times stronger than before it was tempered after it has been hardened. When tempered glass is completed, it is much harder to break due to its hardness. The most common use of tempered glass in cars is for the windshields of the passengers, while the most common use of laminated glass in cars is for the front and rear windshields. The tempered glass's design is such that if it breaks, it can shatter into small pieces, making it less likely to cause additional injury or damage to the user.   Chemical and thermal treatments can also be applied to tempered glass pieces, giving the glass a more balanced internal stress capability to withstand external stresses. If your vehicle has tempered glass broken, seek the assistance from car glass replacement experts.

Pros

• The strength of tempered glass is greater than that of laminated glass.
• The cost is lower.

Cons 

• It is not possible to repair the tempered glass.
• The glass is less effective at blocking ultraviolet light than laminated glass.

 

Laminated Glass

It is important to note that laminated glass is made up of two layers of glass sandwiched between a thin layer of vinyl. As a result, the window becomes thicker and more stable. As a result of the fact that they do not shatter or break easily, they are considered to be one of the safest kinds of glass. The most common type of glass used in vehicle windshields is laminated glass. It is thought that they can be rather effective at preventing break-ins due to the effort required to crack them, which makes them very difficult to breach. Contact the car glass repair experts if you see any cracks in your car windshield.

Pros 

• A high level of strength
• The ability to resist shattering.
• Insulation against sound
• Maintaining security

Cons 

• The strength of laminated glass is less than that of tempered glass.
• Compared to tempered glass, it is more prone to cracking.
• The cost is higher.

 

If you have laminated or tempered glass, what are your repair options? 

When your insurance company does not cover the expense, car glass repair is significantly more affordable than car glass replacement. In most cases, repairing rather than replacing a vehicle's glass is the best choice for the owner.

Laminated glass 

Repairing your windshield is possible due to its laminated glass construction. Most laminated glass cracks and chips are repairable with small to medium-sized tools. It is almost always necessary to replace a windshield if it has severe chips, cracks, or glass damage that meddles with your vision.  

Tempered glass 

A complete replacement of your side or rear windows is likely required if you sustain damage to them. The lack of resin in tempered glass makes it harder to fix, so most auto glass shops recommend replacing it. Only a qualified auto glass specialist can determine whether minor chips in tempered glass can be repaired.

Which one is perfect for you? 

Although both types of glass have different uses and functions when it comes to safety, they work together to keep you and your family safe.

Summary 

Both of these types of glasses are perfect for your car windshield, and it completely depends on which you choose for your car. However, if you have a problem with your car windshield, it is always a good idea to seek the assistance of a professional.