Many of America’s later model automobiles have been constructed with laminated side window glass, the problem is that many car owners don’t know what type of windows they have. Since there’s a big difference in the type of repairs needed for these two types of glass it is important for consumers to understand what type of glass they have and the benefits and drawbacks of each type.
While laminated side windows were at first a new technology reserved for foreign luxury cars, they now appear in other automobiles, including some American SUVs. With laminated side windows becoming more prevalent, many drivers are becoming more familiar with the benefits that laminated glass can provide. One of the most notable advantages of laminated side windows, and probably the biggest draw to luxury car makers, is the quieter ride provided by layered glass. The plastic laminate material provides an additional sound barrier, helping to suppress outside noise in the passenger cabin.
Another benefit that the owner of a car with laminated side windows might hope to never appreciate personally, is the prevention of a “smash and grab” type car burglary. Since tempered glass is not used on laminated glass side windows, the glass doesn’t shatter into a million pieces, as side windows traditionally do. The middle laminate material holds the pieces together, so even if the glass is destroyed, the barrier stays in place, preventing entry to the vehicle.
The problem the owner would face after the attempt of this type of crime would be the significant difference in price between laminate and tempered glass side windows. Since tempered glass is five times harder than the glass used in laminate windows, it’s actually easier to damage laminated windows. And since stress to windows can be caused by everyday events – elbow bumps and fender benders – it doesn’t necessarily take a common criminal for one to incur the considerable cost of replacing laminated glass side windows.
While providing protection from theft, laminated glass can pose a safety hazard; in the event that the car is submerged in water, the side windows cannot be kicked out. While this may seem like a minimal risk, it’s a good incentive for car owner to know what type of glass their own car has, and all the benefits and disadvantages. So if you don’t know exactly what is standing between you and the world at 65 mph, look it up or ask around!
I had not considered that laminate glass could help prevent a smash and grab type of theft. Laminate glass indeed does give a vehicle a more quiet ride.