Windshield repairs have saved consumers millions of dollars over the years by allowing factory installed auto glass to be safely repaired with scientifically designed plastic resins. In the 1960’s laminated windshield glass was introduced. With the use of polyvinyl butyral the inner layer that laminated glass came into wider use by auto makers. It wasn’t until the 1970’s that true windshield repairs became possible. Until that time, all that could be done was to force some oil-based fluid into the damaged area to disguise it, but the results were poor and offered no real repair qualities to the safety or strength of the damaged area, as you can well imagine. From the first giant repair machine, originally introduced by 3M, to a myriad of equipment and companies that specialize in all aspects of glass repair, the search to find the right repair guy has become quite a challenge for “Joe” consumer.

Poor quality repairs can happen even when the most experienced repair person is at the helm. Windshield glass is layered like a sandwich, and it’s the outer layer of glass that receives all the activity from the harsh road environment. The poly layer in the middle flexes and holds the inner and outer layers of glass together so splintering is reduced and strength is added to the vehicle’s roof. When an object hits the windshield it will cause a hole or crack that runs to the inner glass layer. Even if the damage is small, the first thing that immediately contaminates the area that is broken is good old air, and it’s that air that shows up as a dark gray blemish within the windshield. Don’t mistake this blemishing for water or dirt settling inside the damaged area. The cracks in the glass layer can be so tight that moisture in any form could not penetrate the area.

Read the rest of this entry »

Related posts

• Tusk ATV Tire Repair Kit
• Car Repairs – How to Find the Best Shop
• Automotive Three Stage Paint
• Gearbox Problems With Your Automatic Car
• Dismantling Tips For Prewar Cars – The Doors