A windshield is more than just a piece of auto glass. Did you know it is a key component in the structural integrity of your automobile? If properly installed, the windshield will stay in place giving support to the car’s roof structure in the event of a roll over accident. Without the windshield in place, there is an increased possibility of roof collapse, resulting in greater risk of bodily injury or even death. The windshield also acts as a backstop for the passenger side air bag. If the windshield does not stay in place when the air bag is deployed, the air bag will be rendered useless.
The windshield is comprised of two pieces of glass with a piece of plastic laminate in the center. The make up of the windshield is such that even when hit by a rock or other small road debris, the windshield will remain stable and not crystallize like a tempered door glass.
Auto glass is made domestically, as well as abroad, by many different manufactures and shipped to the United States. Some of these manufactures will compete for the original equipment contracts with various auto makers. The successful bidders will work with the auto maker with design and make the auto glass from scratch. The rest of the glass manufactures will simply acquire and copy an original glass saving on all the research and development cost.
Every windshield sold in the United States must have a DOT (Department of Transportation) number etched in the glass. Every glass manufacturer is assigned a specific number. Windshield makers will sometimes outsource parts from each other and attach their label to that part. The DOT number enables the identification of the manufacturer regardless of the label brand.
What should you do when you are in need of a windshield replacement or any auto glass replacement? Use a reputable Houston auto glass shop or one located in your city. A reputable glass shop will have a physical location, garage keepers insurance, certified glass technicians, an established business, as well as a good reputation. A little research will save you a lot of potential worry and aggravation when you need auto glass in Houston.
