The best place to start is to call to your auto insurance company and ask them if your policy carries a glass endorsement, or if the windshield replacement is covered under the comprehensive part of your auto insurance. Damaged windshields do not always require a complete replacement, as many times the damage is repairable. You should ask your auto insurance company if the windshield is repairable or if they suggest a full windshield replacement.

It is becoming more common for auto insurance companies to direct their insured to the auto glass repair and replacement facility they prefer to work with. However, your auto insurance company may request that you contact them prior to any work being done. That way they can inform the windshield repair and replacement facility of acceptable rates they are willing to pay. If the windshield repair and replacement facility does not accept their rates, the auto insurance company will not authorize them to do the work.

When searching for windshield replacement companies, the first thing to look for is The National Glass Association logo. The NGA trains and certifies windshield replacement technicians, and it is important to find out if the technician replacing your windshield is NGA certified. In the United States, there are approximately eleven million windshield replacements every year, up to seventy percent of those are installed incorrectly. It is important to use a windshield replacement company that employs National Glass Association Certified Technicians. The windshield operates as a backing to keep the airbags within the vehicle, in the event of a head on collision an improperly installed windshield can pop out, causing the airbags to fail.

A professional windshield replacement company will use either original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or equivalent glass. OEM glass meets the specifications required by your vehicle’s manufacturer. ‘After-market’ glass is another type of glass used by windshield replacement companies. After-market glass is made by lower standards than OEM, and is less expensive because corners were cut to lower the cost of manufacturing. Using this type of glass can result in leakage into the passenger cabin, wind noises, and poor optical quality. 

The auto glass repair and replacement industry is highly competitive. In such a competitive industry, there are will always be companies that will cut corners in order to maintain a competitive edge. Following the recommendations above, will help you choose the right auto glass repair or replacement company for the job.   

"Trivia Question" Who is the largest auto insurance company in Phoenix, Arizona?

• a) Farmers
• b) American Family
• c) Statefarm

Answer: c) Statefarm with 15% of the city’s residents, followed by Farmers and then American Family.

Attention Vehicle Owners in Ahwatukee Foothills, Alhambra, and Camelback East:

You may want to consider having your windows tinted by an auto glass company. Tinted windows protect against the sun’s harmful UV light by preventing much of the UV light from reaching within the passenger compartment. This protects you and your family as well as preventing the inside of your vehicle from fading and cracking.

Having a damaged windshield replaced, or having your vehicle windows tinted may at times seem like an inconvenience. If you follow these tips, you can drive away after having your windshield replaced or your windows tinted with confidence that you and your family are safe and secure within the confines of your vehicle.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

We all know that window tinting can help keep your vehicle cooler in the hot Arizona sun. However, window tinting can also protect your skin from harmful UV rays thereby preventing skin cancer.

Phoenix, Did you know that?

• One in five Americans will develop skin cancer within their lifetime. (US Dept of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention)
• Skin Cancer is the fastest growing cancer in the world. (Skin Cancer Foundation)
• Excessive, prolonged UV exposure may be linked to the development of eye conditions such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. (American Academy of Ophthalmology)

It is a fact that the sun's rays penetrate glass. Statistics show that American drivers develop skin cancer more frequently on their left side while Australian drivers who drive on the opposite side of the vehicle suffer from cancers of the skin on their right side. You can never be too safe when it comes to blocking the sun's harmful rays. In addition to lathering on your SPF 15 every day, you should have your windows tinted.

If not at least for the sake of your skin (and your family's), consider window tinting to protect your vehicle's interior. By preventing excessive UV exposure, you will maximize your vehicle's resale value. Automotive window tinting also gives your car a sleeker look! More on Phoenix window tinting.

Tinting Laws State by State

Glass Etching in Phoenix, AZ

Residents of the Phoenix Metro Area or residents anywhere around the Greater Phoenix Area, deter theft and save on auto insurance by having your auto glass etched with traceable V.I.N. numbers. Auto Glass Etching is highly recommended by police departments and auto insurance companies for the efficient prevention of auto theft.

By permanently installing visible serial numbers into your vehicle's windshield, you can greatly reduce auto theft and aid in the recovery of your car, truck or vehicle in the event it is stolen.

Although vehicle manufacturers mark some areas on your vehicle, it is not enough if the thieves dismantle your vehicle. If your auto glass is security etched with your V.I.N., the likelihood of having your car, truck or vehicle stolen diminishes greatly.

Why would you risk having your vehicle stolen when preventative measures are so simple? Call (480) 782-5489 or contact us for more information on Arizona Auto Glass Etching.

Other Services We Offer

• Windshield Chip and Crack Repairs.
• Windshield Cowl Replacement.
• Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement.
• Rear Window Wiper Blade Replacement.
• Replace Windshield Wiper Arms.
• Wiper Blade Motor Replacement.
• Sun and Moon Roof Repair or Replacement.
• Interior and Exterior Rear View Mirror Replacement.
• Application and Removal of Automotive Window Film or Tint.
• Security Etching of your V.I.N. (Vehicle Identification Number).
• Automotive Door Glass Off Track Repair.
• Replacement or Repair of the Drive, Cable or Scissor Mechanism.
• Door Panel Replacement.
• The Replacement of Door Panel Retainer Plugs.
• Door Wiring Harness or Electrical Door Switch Replacement.
• Window Regulator or Regulator Motor Replacement.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Windshield Replacements are much more than normal car maintenance; in fact, they are a very crucial part of your vehicles safety.  Calling the first auto glass company near you that does windshield replacements in Phoenix, Sunnyslope, Laveen, Cashion and Tolleson areas, is not always the best solution.

Reason? Your windshield serves a greater purpose than keeping out the weather, wind and bugs. It is actually a vital component of your vehicle's safety net and helps support the roof of your car in the event of a rollover accident. In reality, your windshield should be taken as seriously as your seat belts and airbags.

"SAFETY ALERT" Residents of Phoenix, Sunnyslope, Laveen, Cashion, and Tolleson: The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration said more than 12,000 people die every year or are critically injured after being ejected from a vehicle during a rollover accident. The National Glass Association (NGA) has confirmed that a significant percentage of those fatalities occur because the windshield does not remain firmly bonded to the pinchweld. The percentage is probably higher since not all cases are documented.  How seriously have you been taking your vehicles safety?

Make sure your Windshield Replacement Professional Meets These 5 Criteria!

Doing your homework before selecting a Phoenix, Sunnyslope, Laveen, Cashion, or Tolleson windshield replacement company is important. When selecting your Phoenix windshield replacement professional, you should look for the following items:

1. National Glass Association Logo: An auto glass company displaying the NGA logo should be up-to-date on the latest auto glass technology and best practices.
2. National Glass Association Certified: Ask if their windshield replacement technicians are certified by the National Glass Association (NGA).
3. Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard: Ask if they endorse the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard Council (AGRSS) for proper urethane adhesive and corrosion treatment along with proper installation of auto glass.
4. Windshield Replacement Time: Ask how long the windshield replacement will take. If the windshield replacement takes less than an hour, make sure that two windshield replacement technicians are present.
5. Safe Drive-Away Time: Ask about the recommended Safe Drive-away time to ensure that the adhesive used on the windshield will have adequate time to bond.

Not all Phoenix, Sunnyslope, Laveen, Cashion, and Tolleson windshield replacement companies are equal. SunTec Auto Glass is proud to say that we meet all five of the auto glass guidelines outlined above.  If you have any further questions about the windshield repair or windshield replacement process, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Phoenix, Sunnyslope, Laveen, Cashion, and Tolleson residents, depending on the damage to your windshield, you may just need an auto glass repair, which is much more economical. To be sure, you should consult one of our competent windshield replacement technicians.

Phoenix Drivers: You may need a Windshield Replacement if

• You have 3 or more chips.
• Visual clarity is impaired by Sand Pits or other blemishes.
• Any of the chips are bigger than a quarter or if a crack is larger than a dollar bill.

For more information regarding vehicle safety, visit the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration

Call Or Email Today Take advantage of our free valley wide mobile service in Phoenix, Sunnyslope, Laveen, Cashion, and Tolleson areas!

Proper Windshield Installation 

The Cost of Cutting Costs 

Residents of the greater Phoenix: Did you know that improper windshield installation could result in a catastrophe? When you think about saving a buck there are a few facts to keep in mind, such as a windshield’s purpose. Besides keeping the wind, rain and, bugs out, your windshield keeps you and your family safe in the event of a head-on collision or rollover accident. 

In the event of a head-on collision, an improperly installed windshield can pop out. This can cause your airbags to become ineffective as well as increase the chance of being ejected from the vehicle. A properly installed windshield keeps the occupants safe from being ejected from the vehicle, as well as being crushed in the event of a rollover accident. 

Here are a number of ways to ensure your family’s safety.

1. Choosing a qualified windshield replacement company: 
   • Ask the customer service representative about whether or not the installer(s) are certified and how many years of experience they have.
   • Will there be more than one installer?
   • Do you offer a written warranty or guarantee that covers parts, defects, and workmanship?
   • Do you follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for proper windshield or auto glass installation?
   • Is the company name or logo clearly identifiable on their clothing?
   • Is the company name or logo displayed on their vehicle?
2. There are different types of windshields or auto glass. Which type of windshield or auto glass will you be installing? 
   • Original Equipment: (OE) The auto glass or windshield originally installed by the vehicle manufacturer and may be purchased from the dealership. It should have the vehicle’s name or insignia stamped on it. E.g. Chevrolet, Ford, Cadillac etc.
   • Original Equipment Manufacturer: (OEM) This type of windshield or auto glass should be manufactured to the same specifications as the original manufacturer, but may be produced by a different manufacturing source. It should be the same color, durability, thickness, size, and shape as the original windshield or auto glass and meets the same specifications as the original windshield or auto glass manufactured for your vehicle. 
   • Aftermarket Glass: This type of windshield or auto glass comes from companies that do not contract with the vehicle manufacturer. This type of windshield or auto glass comes from companies that by law cannot manufacture the windshield or auto glass to the exact specifications as OE or OEM auto glass. This is due to licensing and copyright laws. It usually costs less than OE or OEM auto glass. It differs in thickness and design. The use of this type of glass can result in water leaks, stress cracks, wind noise, and visual distortion.
3. Be aware of the proper procedure for windshield replacement:
   • The installer(s) should check the new windshield for flaws or blemishes. They should also have the proper parts before removing the windshield. 
   • A pre-inspection form should be filled out for the customer review to sign that notes any existing damage to the vehicle.
   • The installer(s) should wear gloves when touching the new windshield to prevent contamination.
   • The outer surface of the new windshield should be cleaned paying particular attention to the bonding area to prevent loss of adhesion. 
   • An activating agent should be applied to the new windshield and allowed to dry for at least 3 minutes.
   • They should use a protective padding to prevent any scratches or damage to the vehicle.
   • All moldings, clips, windshield wipers, screws, nuts, and bolts, along with the cowl should be removed.
   • The installer(s) should then remove the damaged windshield.
   • The old urethane should be trimmed down to less than 2mm. Areas with rust should be taken down to bare metal and then a primer should be applied to these areas of bare metals.
   • Using a new brush, the black painted border at the edges of the new windshield should be prepared with the appropriate pinch-weld primer, and depending upon the adhesive used, allow a minimum of 10 minutes for drying.
   • The installer(s) should then apply a smooth straight bead of urethane at least 12 mm high around the pinch-weld. There are times the urethane should be applied to the new windshield instead of the pinch-weld, depending on the type of adhesive used.
   • The new windshield should be put in place, carefully aligning the top, bottom, and sides by sight alone.
   • The installer(s) should then inspect the installation of the new windshield both inside and out for proper alignment.
   • All moldings, clips, windshield wipers, screws, nuts, and bolts, along with the cowl that was previously removed at the beginning of the process should now be re-installed.
   • A leak test should be performed to ensure that the windshield is properly sealed.
   • The windshield wipers should be tested, positioned and adjusted as needed.
   • The outside of the windshield should be cleaned and any glass along with any debris should be vacuumed from the vehicle. The defrost air should be blown on high to blow out any glass fragments or other debris that may have dropped into the defroster ducts.
   • A final vehicle inspection sheet should be filled out and signed by the customer, it should also provide the vehicles safe drive-away time.
4. Review safe drive-away time and any uses of the vehicle that should be avoided. 
   • If not presented with one, request a pamphlet about the safe drive-away time. This time may vary depending on the type of urethane used and weather conditions.
   • Avoid washing your car for at least 24 hours, high water pressure can potentially damage the seal and outer moldings before the urethane has had a chance to cure. 
   • Leave both front vehicle windows down at least ½ inch for the next 24 hours. This prevents pressure from the inside of the cabin from blowing a hole in the urethane seal causing an air or water leak.
   • When exiting the vehicle, lightly close the vehicle doors for at least the next 24 hours.

"WARNING" Residents of Phoenix, Sunnyslope, Laveen, Cashion, and Tolleson: According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, there are 42,000 deaths annually on U. S. Highways at an economic loss of 150 billion dollars. With 280,000 rollover accidents annually and only 3 in 10 windshields installed correctly in Phoenix, as well as the rest of the United States, it is well worth ensuring that your windshield is replaced correctly.

Airbags that deploy under conditions, for which they were not intended, is considered a safety defect by safercar.gov, a department of transportation website. A faulty windshield installation can cause a windshield to pop out during an accident. Faulty windshield installations increase the chance of roof collapse and ejection from the vehicle and in turn increases the risk of a serious injury or even death. 

Whether you live in the East Valley or West Valley, or anywhere in the greater Phoenix: As you can see, an ounce of prevention can be worth a pound of cure. Being aware of how important it is to have a properly installed windshield and the role it plays in the structural integrity of your vehicle, as well as an awareness of the proper process in replacing a windshield will allow you to make the right choices when choosing a windshield replacement or auto glass repair company. This will give you added confidence when deciding on whether or not to cut corners in an effort to cut costs.   

Video: The Cost of Cutting Costs

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

While your windshield may seem like it just protects you from the elements, such as wind and bugs, it serves an even greater purpose. It is actually a vital component of your vehicle's safety net and helps support the roof of your car.

In reality, your windshield should be taken as seriously as your seat belts and airbags.

With so many "do-it-yourself" windshield repair kits on the Internet, why risk your or your family's safety when SunTec Auto Glass can offer windshield repairs for nothing? (Most Cases)

Phoenix drivers, generally if the chip is smaller than a dollar bill or if the chip is not in the driver's line of vision, then you can pursue windshield repair instead of windshield replacement. One of our technicians can tell if the chip is eligible for windshield repair and that distortion will not be an issue from the windshield repair. They also can make sure that the windshield's inner Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) layer has not been penetrated or compromised.

Benefits:

• Insurance deductible waived (Most Cases)
• Windshield repair is more cost effective than replacement (cash price)
• Repair Time: 15 minutes for each chip
• Drive-away time: immediately

Disadvantages: 

• Blemishes do not disappear, but spreading is prevented (see above)
• Limit of three chips or a crack up-to 6 inches in length covered by your auto insurance (Most Cases)
• Structural integrity of windshield may be compromised

 How to Repair a Chipped Windshield

As a Phoenix resident, the last time a stone damaged my windshield I went home and surfed the internet to find an auto glass company to repair my windshield. During my search, I came across do-it-yourself kits for sale. Could I actually repair the chip myself? I was intrigued with this idea and decided to learn more about the windshield repair process to see if it was a reasonable option for me. I discovered that the windshield repair process consists of basically four steps.

A Few Things to Note before Beginning

1. Start with clean tools as dirty tools can contaminate the resin.
2. Avoid direct contact with resin by wearing gloves, using goggles and covering your clothing.
3. Work in an area that is cool, dry and well ventilated.
4. Use polyurethane gloves covered with latex or vinyl gloves, the former are for protection, the latter are for dexterity.
5. If the windshield is hot, the windshield should be cooled using shade or a cover.
6. If the windshield is too cold turning on the defroster should help warm it as the resin’s viscosity thickens when too cold preventing a proper fill.

Step One: Prepare the Impact Point

1. Hold a carbine scribe firmly and position it at the edge of the impact point. Clean and open the impact point so the resin can flow into the crack.   
2. Push the scribe down firmly two or three times, additional times may be required to clean and open the impact point.
3. Use a clean, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe any debris away.

Step Two: Completely Fill the Break

1. Position a mirror on the inside of the windshield as this allows you to see the resin fill the break from the inside of the windshield.
2. Screw the suction cup tightly to the bridge.
3. Screw the injector base into the bridge.  
4. Check that the injector base and the leveling screw are above the level of the bottom of the suction cup.
5. Position the suction cup above the point of impact to prevent the suction cup lubricant from coming into contact with the bridge or point of impact.
6. Place the bridge onto the windshield making sure that the injector point is on or near the impact point. Secure the bridge to the windshield by depressing the suction cup lever.
7. Depending on the surface or curvature of the windshield, it may require that the brass cap on the suction cup be held firmly to assist in forming suction.
8. Carefully lower the injector base and leveling screw until it lightly comes into contact with the windshield. Be sure that its level. 
9. The suction cup lubricant should not come into contact with either the resin or the impact point.
10. Add several drops of resin into the injector base. This should be done by dripping it directly from the bottle containing the resin or by using a UV blocking syringe.
11. Now insert the injector.
12. Screw the injector press down until you feel it tighten while holding the injector base with one hand. Unscrew it three or four turns and then screw it down again. Repeat the process two to four times as it creates a vacuum and removes the air allowing for the resin to fill the void. Practice is vital as different breaks and temperatures require different pressure. Too much pressure can crack the windshield or give it a daisy effect.
13. When working outside always cover the break. This prevents the resin from curing or hardening prematurely, allowing the time necessary to fill in the break.
14. Periodically check the break to insure the resin is flowing into the break properly.
15. Holding the injector base with two fingers, unscrew and remove the injector press completely. Slide the bridge away from the impact point in order to determine if the damage is filling correctly.
16. Use a clean, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe clean.
17. If needed, reposition the injector base back over the impact point. While holding the base with two fingers, screw the injector press down again. If the crack is not filling use the carbine scribe to open up the impact point further. If crack still is not filled you may need to begin at Step One again.
18. If filled correctly you should see a fine line when looking directly at the crack. To be sure of proper fill look at the crack from different angles and if it disappears, it is filled. (No black should remain)
19. When the crack is completely filled, the repair must remain set up under pressure while curing for ten minutes or longer. Start the curing process on the exposed areas by either direct sunlight or by a UV lamp. This prevents the resin from seeping out the impact point before it has had a chance to completely harden.

Step Three: Cure and Seal

1. It is important that the resin is cured completely and that the impact point is sealed.
2. While holding the injector base with two fingers, totally unscrew the injector press. Only then, should the suction cup lever be released and the bridge removed.
3. Wipe away any resin with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth. 
4. Apply one drop of pit sealer. Cover the repair with a reusable pit sealer tab. Touch the tab lightly in order to spread the drop.
5. Use the sun or place a UV lamp directly over the repaired area for approximately five to eight minutes. 
6. Remove the pit sealer tab from the windshield then use a razor blade at a 25-degree angle to scrape off the hardened pit sealer. Scrape firmly and only in one direction.
7. Wipe the area with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.
8. Clean the windshield with window cleaner. 

Step Four: Buff and Polish

1. Apply a small amount of pit buffer and wipe well with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth. Repeat as necessary.
2. This last step will give the windshield a professional finish.

As a Phoenix driver, learning about all these seemingly small details and how important they are to the windshield repair process, I decided to have a professional fix the rock chip instead of attempting to fix it myself and possibly creating a greater problem. As I watched the technician work, I could see that he had done this many times before. Now I no longer have a chip or crack in my windshield and I am confident the job was completed correctly by an auto glass repair professional.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

The PCI statement appears to purposely mislead insurance clients and government leaders by implying that, if things went back to the way they were before Safelite Solutions became the third-party service administrator now preferred by over one hundred insurance providers, the workmanship quality would be at risk and the process would be a hassle. Safelite’s statement is not dishonest, but does not address the number of employees and small auto glass businesses that have been lost to Safelite. History shows us that if the law required them to pare down their large call center through the nature of fair competition, small auto glass replacement and repair businesses would open up again and become job creators in themselves. How many jobs would then be created? As many as business allows, the very factor by which Safelite decides how many employees they choose to hire.

When one side of a disagreement uses fear and fallacy as support, it is often a form of manipulation. If using Safelite as a third-party service administrator is not a conflict of interest, why are the use of fear and fallacy required to defend themselves? Small businesses are the backbone of our society and create healthy competition, that in turn results in fair prices. When one large company exists, it allows them the freedom to establish their prices with little concern that a competitor will quote a better price to a potential customer. When the market consists of several small auto glass businesses, it encourages quality service as the customer has a choice of a variety of qualified and professional companies with which to work. Replacing several small auto glass businesses with one large company has the potential to reduce the quality and professionalism a customer receives due to a lack of competition, as a singular company is not as concerned about this issue when the customer has no other choice.

An independent glass repair contractor, Alan Epley, stated in an interview with the talk radio station, News Talk 94.3, “They (Safelite) have the conflict of interest of having glass installation facilities around the state, but yet are also taking claims calls. Therefore they have a financial interest in directing every claim they receive to their own facilities.”

He was referring to South Carolina, where a bill just passed that states, in part, “It is an unlawful trade practice for a motor vehicle glass repair business actively engaged in the repair of motor vehicle glass, or a person or entity with a ten percent or more ownership interest in that business, and acting as a third-party administrator of insurance claims made pursuant to insurance coverage for motor vehicle glass repair to: (1) refer or steer, or cause to be referred or steered, an insured motor vehicle glass repair business to itself; or (2) use consumer information obtained in the process of acting in that dual capacity to solicit motor vehicle glass repair business.” Frank Knapp of the South Carolina Small Business Chamber of commerce says that his clients want fair access to customers.  “It hits to the heart of protection of small businesses and having a level playing field.”

"Trivia Question"
What percentage of drivers in Phoenix, Arizona drive without auto insurance?

• a) 6%
• b) 12%
• c) 18%

Answer: b) about 12% of Arizona's 4.9 million licensed drivers currently drive without auto insurance, compared with about 14% nationally.

Safelite operates out of Columbus, Ohio and operates in all fifty states. They have ten thousand employees and 3.8 million customers per year, according to industry publications. Based on the number of small auto glass businesses and their employees that Safelite has driven out of the industry, basically displaced, and based on their current conflict of interest, it’s expected that this issue will come before all fifty state senates. The auto insurance industry’s campaign of fear and fallacy, in conjunction with Safelite’s campaign of creating a fear of large job losses, could affect the decisions made. Fortunately, a cursory study of the issue lends a clear picture of exactly what is happening; a picture that cuts through the fear tactics being used by the auto insurance industry and Safelite to small auto glass businesses' detriment.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

According to AGRR Magazine/glassBYTEs.com, Auto Glass Week’s mission is to make every auto glass replacement safer by developing and maintaining standards for of auto glass replacement. Education and accrediting the industry and promoting awareness of the AGRSS Standard to the insurance industry and driving public at large.

Last year, representatives came from countries such as Germany, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, Spain and France, as well as Japan and China to take part in an opportunity to learn about the latest in auto glass innovations, laws and regulations. They come to compete in the Annual Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Olympics and the Annual Walt Gorman Memorial Windshield Repair Olympics. 

In the past, the auto glass industry has had many auto glass related conferences and events from which to choose. This year’s Auto Glass Week will be an accumulation of the resources from these varied events as all participating groups have agreed that this will be the only event in which they will participate. This will be the second year that the International Window Film Tint-Off will be held concurrent with Auto Glass Week allowing its competitors to attend the prestigious Auto Glass Week.

While anyone is welcome to register and attend, there are some conditions to compete in the two Olympic events. Employment at an operating auto glass company with at least one year of technical auto glass experience is a requirement to compete. Competitors must follow the current Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard. Owners and suppliers cannot compete and there is a cap on the number of competitors allowed. It is on a first come, first serve basis. Pre-registration is a requirement.

In order to honor the best auto glass repair technician in the world, AGRR magazine founded the Walt Gorman Memorial Windshield Repair Olympics (WRO) in 2006. Each technician has forty-five minutes to complete a windshield repair.  The judges determine the winner by the highest quality repair in the given time. Judges’ consider all aspects of auto glass repair, including professionalism and customer service when determining final scores. The standard by which the technicians are judged regarding the technical aspect is the Repair of Laminated Auto Glass Standard. All contestants must take a ten-question test about the proper practices in windshield repair.

During the forty-five minute technical part of the competition, technicians take a proctor or customer through an entire windshield repair process. This should include proper cleaning, resin placement, environmental element protection, curing and signing the finished work order as well as other components. There are six areas to the competition:

1. Customer greeting
2. Professional conduct
3. Vehicle preparation
4. Products used
5. Repair technique
6. Post-repair procedures

Judges look for those who raise the benchmark for the industry and take the repair to a higher level.

 The first place winner receives $10,000, a gold medal and a trophy. The second place winner receives $1000 and a silver medal. The third place winner receives $500 and a bronze medal. The winner’s company receives use of the Walt Gorman Memorial Windshield Repair Olympics logo for an unlimited time. Additionally, the winning company gains use of the WRO Winner logo on stationery, business cards and advertising for one year. Along with media coverage and press releases on behalf of the champion’s company. Furthermore, an ad published in AGRR magazine featuring the winner and their company.

The winner of the Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Olympics wins the same monetary rewards and medals, as does the winner of the WRO competition. They also win media coverage and press releases sent on behalf of the company for which they work. Additionally, they gain the use of the AGTO Winner logo on stationery, business cards and advertising for one year and use of the 2012 Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Olympics logo for an unlimited time. Furthermore, a congratulations ad and coverage of the victor and their company will appear in AGRR™ magazine.

The technicians in this second competition are given seventy-five minutes to complete a windshield replacement. Additionally, any auto glass replacement technician that has not completed the full replacement within this time loses. Contestants are judged on ten sections. They are:

1. Professionalism and credentials
2. Technician comportment and vehicle inspection
3. Proper product usage
4. Proper equipment and tools usage
5. Windshield removal
6. Install technique
7. Post installation and cleanup procedures
8. Customer wrap-up
9. In-depth knowledge credit 
10. Correction of any inappropriate conditions

There are two additional awards within this competition: the Ingenuity Award and the Innovative Tool Award. 

 The competitions are only a part of Auto Glass Week. There is a trade show floor where those in attendance can see the latest products and meet with manufacturers and suppliers. The event also features:

•  Association meetings
•  Educational Seminars and Workshops
•  Sponsorship Opportunities
•  Exhibitions
• Product Demonstrations
• Architectural and Automotive Film Competitions
• Networking Events

This year’s seminars are as follows:

• Associations and Standards Overview
• Insurance and it’s Effects on the Auto Glass Industry
• Sixty Business and Legal Tips in Sixty Minutes
• Vehicle Safety and Technique Update
• It’s a Small World After All
• Automotive Glass Safety Council Update
• Staying Ahead of the Curve and Emerging Issues for Automotive Glass Repair and Replacement
• Customer Service, how to Keep Customers Rushing Back for More
• Using Digital Avenues to Market Your Business

This year also features a special speaker, Captain Richard Phillips who was commanding the ship Maersk Alabama when Somali pirates captured it on April 8, 2009. It had been delivering food aid to East Africa at the time and Captain Phillips offered himself as a hostage in order to protect his crew. Navy Seal snipers rescued him after he spent five days on a lifeboat with the pirates. 

There is also a silent charity auction with proceeds going to the Auto Glass Safety Council, a non-profit organization. Previous years have had a fishing trip with Carl Tompkins, autographed paraphernalia from celebrities, women’s jewelry, and watches auctioned.

"Trivia Question"
What makes glass transparent?

• a) Because glass is a highly viscous liquid
• b) Because of sand, calcium and oxide
• c) Because of electron energy levels

Answer: c) Photons can pass through glass, because they do not have sufficient energy to excite a glass electron to a higher energy level, which allows photons to pass through unchanged. This is known as transmission, which allows glass to be transparent.

 Co-sponsoring associations each hold their own sessions where some require membership. They discuss how their association is working to better the industry over all and they provide tools and resources. Bisbee Junction, Bowie, and Cochise drivers: This year’s co-sponsors include the Auto Glass Safety Council, the Independent Glass Association, the National Glass Association, the National Windshield Repair Association, and AGRR magazine. 

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Residents of Cascabel, Mescal, and Redington: There are seven types of the sunroof. Sunroof is a generic term that describes an operable panel in a vehicles roof that lets in light and air. Ford Motor Company created the term "moon-roof" in the 1970s. It is now used generically to describe glass panel inbuilt electric sunroofs. That is the type of sunroof that slides between the metal roof and the interior headliner; it may include a tilting feature along with an electronic control. The down side to this type of sunroof is some headroom is lost, as it has to slide and store completely within the roof of the vehicle. Not all vehicles have the required room for a moon-roof style of sunroof.

Sunroofs are either original equipment manufactured or aftermarket. A sunroof installed after manufacturing the vehicle is aftermarket, as much as seventy percent of all aftermarket installations are installed for new car dealers, before being sold to the public.

The other six styles of sunroof are the pop-up, spoiler, folding, top-mount sliding, panoramic, and removable roof panels. Removable roof panels were popular in the late 1970s and are called T-Tops. They have two removable pieces of glass that leave a T-shaped structural brace in the middle of the roof.  Panoramic sunroofs are new, larger and use multi panels. The panoramic sunroof offers openings for the front and back seats. The top-mount sliding sunroof is a large glass panel that slides open in tracks on top of the roof. The folding-style sunroof gives a convertible feel to a vehicle. The panel is vinyl fabric that folds back as it slides open, and is usually electric powered and not manually operated. The Spoiler-style sunroof tilts, slides, and leaves a smaller opening than most other sunroofs. Additionally, the pop-up style sunroof, referred to as a pop-out or hatch. This style of sunroof is manually operated and tilts up.

The solar sunroof has been around for over a decade, but its price has prevented it from being popular. It operates just like most sunroofs, but it provides solar energy that powers interior ventilation fans. Right now, it is available on the 2010 Prius, the Mazda Millenia, the Renault ZOE, and some newer Audi models. 

A new type of sunroof just coming on the market is the oversized inbuilt, that are big enough to open up to the back seat. It is equipped with Electro-chromatic variable intensity glass, along with very large, fixed and electrically operable glass panels. This glass will not affect passenger comfort, or allow the interior to fade and eliminates the need for shades. This style sunroof uses Electro-chromatic glass panels that adjust from transparent to opaque, depending upon the time of day. The panels are metallic, laminated glass that rejects heat, reduces UV light and still maintains clear visibility.

"Trivia Question"
In what year did the sunroof first appear as a standard item?

• a) 1937
• b) 1965
• c) 1982

Answer: a) The first car company to offer a sunroof as a standard item was the Nash Motor Company as an option on some of its 1937 models.

Sometimes there are problems with sunroofs, such as leakage or air noise. Today’s sunroofs use materials like silicone and EDPM rubber, (ethylene propylene diene Monomer), which resist UV light and do not dry out and crack as did the rubber gaskets that were once used. Remember to clean the gaskets with soap and water a couple of times a year. Never use vinyl dressing, mineral oil, or petroleum jelly on the gaskets. The best decision is to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning.

Cascabel, Mescal, and Redington Drivers: As we can see, there is more to sunroofs than meets the eye. When we buy a vehicle, rarely do we think about the many sunroof options available, or the possibility that it may need repaired or a replacement in the future. If you do need a repair or replacement, calling an auto glass shop that is National Glass Association certified is your best option. Until then, enjoy the wonderful, open and airy experience that sunroofs provide.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

As more automobiles use speech recognition to activate various devices, such as a GPS, a quiet ride becomes more important. The background noise that rushing air creates while driving with a windshield seal that is compromised, can distort any information a driver attempts to convey to these devices. Many of us have experienced frustration when we have held conversations with someone who is using a hands-free cell phone while driving. “What! Can you repeat that! Would you repeat that again!” The good news is we can replace the windshield and molding to the same quality as they were when the vehicle was manufactured.

There are three sources that create the excess noise in older vehicles; the noise generated by fluctuations in aerodynamic pressure around the windshield and the vehicle’s frame; the noise generated by tires rolling against the road’s surface; and the noise and vibration that generates when another vehicle passes close to our own. The amount of noise heard when another driver passes depends on the type of automobile driven. The noise that automobile tires make while in use varies depending on factors such as speed and the type of vehicle driven. It is muffled by the vehicle’s frame, carpeting, seats and other parts of the vehicle. Since the windshield has no protection from the wind, it takes the full impact. If there are any leaks in the seal between the windshield and the pinchweld, (the frame in which your windshield is adhered) it will be noticeable, especially at higher speeds.

"Trivia Question"
Does sound travel faster through the air, water or glass?

• a) Air
• b) Water
• c) Glass

Answer: c) The speed of sound varies depending on density and pressure, for the most part, the denser the object the faster sound will travel (air 768 mph) (water 3319 mph) (glass 8862 mph)

The laminate sandwiched between the two layers of glass diminishes noise coming from the outside of the passenger compartment.  An enhanced type of laminate is now in use for this very purpose, creating a quieter ride. Residents of Thatcher, Tonto Basin, and Young: By replacing a vehicle’s windshield, even those who drive an older vehicle can enjoy the benefits of the most up-to-date improvements. Just the improved ability to enjoy a conversation, listen to our favorite music, or talk radio, is worth the small amount of effort it takes to have your windshield replaced. Moreover, any voice activated components will be able to function as intended. 

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

The top priority with cars today is style. While safety is continually improving, style is what really brings customers into a showroom. Advertising touts style and performance, but the added safety and utility features that windshields provide do not receive any mention. This leaves many of us unaware of just how important and progressive windshields have become. 

From installation to the use of color, your windshield is no longer just a window. Windshields make up to seventy percent of the structural integrity of your vehicles roof today, versus the days when the steel A-pillar served this purpose. An improperly installed windshield, or windshields installed using inferior products are dangerous in the case of a roll over or head-on collision, as the windshield can pop out preventing it from providing one of its most important functions. When a windshield pops out, there is little left to prevent the roof from caving in during a roll over accident. In the case of a head-on collision, it would leave an open hole from which passengers could be ejected, rather than keeping them safely in the vehicle. 

There is a nanocomposite coating material between the layers of tempered glass, which gives the windshield a blue undertone. This nanocomposite layer is a product of the growing field of nano-science, or nano-technology, studies that work with matter on an ultra small-scale. The nano-composite layer does not scratch, bubble, deform, or fade because it is not a film. It absorbs certain frequencies of light, and this reduces the effect of glare or haze. It filters out over ninety percent of infrared emissions. This filtering protects the interior of the vehicle from aging and cracking, as well as reduces the amount of heat allowed in the passenger compartment. This reduces the amount of fuel used while the air conditioner is running. Since newer windshields are cooler, allowing clearer visibility, and are much stronger, we can expect future automobile styles to feature more glass.

Today, we have more to distract us than drivers did just a few decades ago. We have CDs, phones, and navigational systems that can cause us to look many places other than at the road. While this has not happened over night, these types of distractions have grown considerably over the last few years. Automobile engineers and scientists are addressing this issue through heads-up technology. It allows drivers to see non-distracting, translucent, 3-D information displayed on the windshield.  Heads-up technology allows drivers to gain needed information while still keeping their eyes within the proper field of vision. It is successfully being used in military aircraft and is just now being designed for automobiles. General Motors is currently analyzing this technology. It can bring attention to important road signs or people and animals on the road. It can outline the road making it easier to drive in snow, rain and fog. 

Since the military carries out most of the research in this area, the manufacturing costs remain very high. Most of the cost comes from the process of heating and polishing the required materials in the final stages of production. The good news is that the product is a mixture of glass and oxides of platinum and aluminum. Using this transparent metallic glass results in a stronger product, which adds only millimeters to the thickness and weighs less than the glass used today.

"Trivia Question"
What is a windshield called or commonly referred to as in the United Kingdom and Australia?

• a) Aeroscreen
• b) Windscreen
• c) Front-lite

Answer: b) What we commonly refer to as a windshield in North America, is known to the people of the United Kingdom and Australia as a windscreen.

We live in an age where our windshield could become the most durable part of our vehicle. The futuristic windshield will still require replacement from time to time. Arivaca, San Carlos, and Solomon Drivers: Finding Auto Glass Companies that employ National Glass Association certified technicians should be just as important in the future, as it is today. Ensuring proper windshield replacement or auto glass repair is of utmost importance, as it allows your windshield to function as designed, keeping occupants safer in an unfortunate accident.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Auto window tinting can reduce temperatures up to sixty-nine percent, my passengers were happy and I spent less time driving with my air conditioning running at full blast. Even when I had to park in the sun, I was climbing in and out of a much cooler car. The interior of any vehicle left in the sun can exceed 130 degrees, but window tinting slows down the amount of heat absorbed by the interior of the vehicle. 

I was now more protected from not only the discomfort of too much heat, but also from the dangers of UV light, the source of the sun’s energy. Though the auto glass itself slows short UV wavelength transmission, the auto glass does not protect as well from the long wavelength of UV light that the sun transmits. Window tinting reduces the burning impact of UV light on our skin by reducing the amount of UV light within a vehicle’s interior by up to ninety-nine percent. This is a significant amount, especially when considering that research shows drivers are more prone to cancer on exposed skin, typically closest to a vehicle’s windows.

There are other benefits of auto glass tinting as well. Additional privacy and security for your vehicle's occupants and contents, by hiding things from the view of potential smash-and-grab criminals. Window tinting contributes to holding pieces of glass together when broken and provides protection for the interior surfaces of your vehicle from aging factors such as fading and cracking. 

"Attention"
Residents of Strawberry, Roosevelt, and Safford: Before tinting automobile windows, it is a good idea to become familiar with Arizona state law governing its use as laws vary by state. In Arizona, no less than thirty-three percent of available light may pass through the front two auto windows leaving a maximum allowable sixty-seven percent of light deflected.  There are no parallel Arizona state restrictions regarding the back and back side windows, meaning there are more choices for the degree of tint protection on these windows including any colour choices other than red-amber. 

"Trivia Question"
How many Ultraviolet Rays does our Sunlight have?

• a) 1
• b) 3
• c) 5

Answer: b) Sunlight contains three types of ultraviolet rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC.

Had I known this information when I first moved to Arizona, I most likely would have had window tinting applied right away. The amount of protection from the sun’s UV rays and the sun’s heat, in addition to the added security provided, makes it well worth dropping off a vehicle to have tinting applied to the windows. Now that I drive a car with window tinting, I would have it no other way.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

"Did You Know?"
Peridot, Pima, and Pine Residents: Auto glass replacement is a multi-step process, and each step is equally important. Any ignored or improperly completed step could cause the windshield to fail during a collision or rollover accident. One way you can make sure that you receive proper service, is to work with an auto glass repair and windshield replacement company that employs certified auto glass repair and replacement technicians.

The foremost auto glass association to train and certify technicians is the National Glass Association. The NGA is the largest trade association to represent automotive and architectural glass products and installations, and its logo is nationally recognized. Founded over forty years ago, it provides to glaziers and consumers information regarding windshield glass as well as all other types of auto glass. The NGA is a resource for both the consumer and auto glass repair and replacement technicians. The NGA publishes information related to issues, techniques, trends, and advancements within the auto glass repair and replacement industry. 

The NGA offers two levels of certification for auto glass replacement technicians. Level 1 Certified Auto Glass Technician (CAGT) requires a minimum of six months of auto glass replacement experience, and the test is taken at an NGA approved facility. Level 2 Certified Master Auto Glass Technician (CMAGT) requires a previous CAGT certification and a minimum of three years of auto glass replacement experience, the test is taken at an NGA approved facility. 

In order to improve consumer understanding of the importance of auto glass repair and replacement, the NGA created an organization called the Coalition for Auto Glass Safety and Public Awareness, (CASPA). This is a highly valuable orginization for consumers as it assists them in locating quality, certified auto glass repair and replacement shops and technicians. There are numerous auto glass repair and replacement companies operating and it would be difficult to know which one to use without the valuable assistance of this organization. 

The National Windshield Repair Association (NWRA), is recognized for providing accurate and up to date information on advancements within the auto glass repair industry. NWRA provides newsletters and subscriptions to its members; information that will assure any windshield repair is done with the most up to date equipment and techniques.

"Trivia Question"
In theUnited States, what percentage of windshields are replaced incorrectly

• a) 15%
• b) 38%
• c) 46%
• d) 70%

Answer: d). 70% As many as 7 out of every 10 windshields replaced are done incorrectly.

Since there is no governing body that supervises the auto glass repair and replacement industry, it is wise to become an informed consumer. Associations such as the NGA and the NWRA are providing this information to consumers. Consumers in Peridot, Pima, Pine, and elsewhere can find peace of mind in the knowledge that their auto glass repair or auto glass replacement is properly done to the NGA and NWRA specifications. 

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

"History"
Residents of Morenci, Payson, and Star Valley: Did you know that glass was originally made and still is made by combining sand, soda, and extreme heat? Ancient glassmakers kept their methods secret to maintain their reputations as glassmakers. Only the very élite could afford the glass products made during this time. Many places, including Venice Italy, still protect their methods and formulas.

Today, everyone uses glass in one way or another. Glass has gone from fragile to being able to serve as part of the safety structure of vehicles. Windshields can withstand and protect a vehicle’s occupants from debris and winds that commonly reach seventy miles an hour, while maintaining optical clarity. If the windshield does break, it breaks into small pieces that stay together. If the auto glass were not "Safety" or "Tempered" glass, it would break into dangerous shards that could fall or be blown into the passenger compartment of a vehicle, causing severe injuries and even death. 

Bullet resistant glass has only been manufactured within the last few decades. This specialized auto glass is created using multiple layers of glass and plastic laminates of varying durability. Bullet resistant glass continues to see improvements that will make a lighter, thinner, and stronger product. There is even a bullet resistant windshield that allows for occupants inside a vehicle to shoot bullets through the windshield without destroying its safety features, while those shooting the windshield from the outside of the vehicle cannot penetrate into the passenger compartment.

Infrared windshields reflect heat away from the inside of the vehicle. Other exciting uses of infrared in windshields are presently in development. General Motors are previewing an enhanced windshield vision system using paper-thin film that converts infrared light into visible light, which allows drivers to see better at night. There are numerous sensors on the outside of the vehicle providing feedback data into a system that will be displayed across the entire windshield. This would bring important road signs to the drivers’ attention such as speed limit signs. It would highlight the edges of roads, exits, and objects in the road such as animals or people. In effect, we could drive in snow, rainfall, and fog while still clearly seeing important road signs, lanes, and unexpected objects in the road. 

"Trivia Question"
The yellow-green scarab at the heart of King Tut’s pendant is made of what type of glass?

• a) Tektite
• b) Trinitite
• c) Fulgurite

Answer: a) The glass in King Tut’s pendant was made with the help of a meteorite that crashed into the Egyptian desert melting the sand forming a type of glass called "Tektite

With such a jump in technology, it will be exciting to see all the new discoveries in the near future. Glass manufacturing has come far in the last 4,000 years. Most of the improvements have been beneficial to our safety. Morenci, Payson, and Star Valley drivers: all you need to do is a small amount of maintenance and when required to repair or replace a windshield, be sure you use a well qualified Auto Glass Company whose technicians are National Glass certified. 

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Drivers in Eden, Fort Thomas, and Miami: Many of us have experienced that moment when we hear that awful sound of a rock hitting our windshield, leaving a chip or crack. It is a good reminder to comply with the signs on trucks that suggest keeping a two hundred foot distance. Many of us continue driving with a windshield that is chipped or cracked, putting off getting it repaired or even replaced, not realizing the potential danger if we unfortunately become involved in a roll-over accident or a head on collision. Chips and cracks can create weakness in the windshield that could prevent it from serving its purpose, which is to keep the vehicle’s occupants within the confines of the passenger compartment safe.

In addition, a cracked or chipped windshield can cause a driver to receive a traffic citation. State laws vary, but in Arizona, the law enforcement officer decides if you will receive a citation. The fee for this infraction varies by city. If you receive a citation in Tempe, for example, the fee is $136.00. It would be far less costly to repair the chip or crack in the windshield quickly before it grows and becomes irreparable. A pitted windshield can be a ticket-able offense; an officer can assess the severity of the damage and the safety of the windshield.

Rocks and gravel are not the only causes of windshield damage. It is never a good idea to attempt to melt ice off a windshield by using hot water, because you take the risk of creating a crack. Alternatively, washing a car that has been in the hot Arizona sun, using cold water can cause the same type of damage. It would be wise to inspect your windshield for chips or cracks when cleaning it, as defects are not always obvious. You should periodically inspect your windshield wipers, as the cost to replace them is negligible. To discover that they are too old, dried out, and cracked during a sudden down pour of rain could be terrifying. Replace them frequently, with windshield wipers designed to fit your specific vehicle.

"Attention"
Residents of Eden, Fort Thomas, and Miami: When taking your vehicle to an auto glass company for auto glass repair or auto glass replacement, make sure you're using a qualified auto glass shop. Ask about their certifications and ask if the installer that will be doing the work is certified and experienced. It is important to find out if they use original equipment manufacturer products. By taking these quick and simple steps, you can feel confident that you have done your part to insure the safety of you, your family, and any other potential occupants.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

One such auto glass improvement is commonly called ‘bulletproof’ though this is a misnomer; a more accurate term is ‘bullet-resistant’. Creating bullet-resistant auto glass follows the same process used for making standard windshields with only slight variations in the materials and techniques. Bullet-resistant and standard windshield replacement auto glass sandwich a sheet of polycarbonate thermoplastic material between two sheets of safety glass, all three laminated together. Bullet-resistant windshields are a series of these polycarbonate and auto glass ‘sandwiches’ laminated together to create one, thick windshield.

Standard automobile windshields have a sheet of polycarbonate laminated between two sheets of safety auto glass. Some of the brand names for the polycarbonate material used are Lexan, Cyrolon and, Tuffak. The polycarbonate material used in bullet-resistant auto glass is usually a tougher form such as polyvinyl butyral, polyurethane or ethylene-vinyl acetate. Bullet-resistant windshields have several of these sandwiched polycarbonate and auto glass sheets stacked and laminated together. The amount of layers laminated together is dependant on the amount of protection required. As an example, military grade bullet-resistant windshields are typically five inches thick - some twenty times thicker than standard auto windshields. 

The standard auto windshield and the bullet-resistant auto windshield function almost identically. The primary differences deal with mass and velocity of both the projectile and the windshield itself.  Auto windshields could be considered ‘rock-resistant’, meaning the windshield may take a hit by a small rock moving at low velocity with little to no damage. As the size and/or the speed of the rock increases, most likely, the damages increase as well. The same logic applies to bullet-resistant windshields, only to a greater degree. The larger the caliber, and the greater the velocity at which it travels, the greater the damage is to the windshield. Damages incurred are also determined by the speed at which the windshield is moving.

The Full Package

To install only a bullet-resistant windshield, would defeat the purpose of installing any bullet-resistant auto glass. If a vehicle has one bullet-resistant window, all other windows need bullet-resistant auto glass as well. In addition, it is possible to compromise the vehicles ability to function by installing auto glass that is to too heavy and thick for the vehicles original design. The layers of polycarbonate and auto glass required to create a bullet-resistant windshield are custom-made and molded to the curved, outer auto glass.  Mounting the windshield to a molded vehicle frame is extremely difficult. The auto glass installer will compromise the vehicles structural integrity without a tight, secure molding to the frame of the vehicle, which may require some redesigning to fit the additional layers that make up a bullet-resistant windshield.

While it is true that polycarbonate is lighter in weight than auto glass, it is impractical to use without auto glass because of its tendency to yellow, fog and, scratch easily. Even cleaning polycarbonate can cause it to discolor and scratch. Any of these issues would inhibit the optical quality of a polycarbonate only windshield. A driver would find himself looking around the windshield rather than through the windshield. With a windshield made only of polycarbonate, a minor repair would become impossible and a full windshield replacement inevitable. 

The future of windshield replacement is wide open to possibilities, though now it looks like any major change will be well into the future. The U.S. Air Force is presently developing a transparent ceramic made of aluminum, oxygen, and nitrogen that will be used to manufacture a much lighter and stronger bullet-resistant auto glass, though it is currently unavailable for use.

Claypool, Clifton, and Duncan drivers: To make a windshield that would be nearly impervious to speeding projectiles, while possible, would not serve a practical purpose within today’s standard motor vehicle industry due to insufficient development of tomorrow’s materials and because of the exorbitant cost and effort required of using materials available in today’s world. The good news is that while many are in the process of discovering tomorrow’s windshields, others are continuing to improve the windshield repair process that will carry us into the next era of automotive windshields.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Winter can serve up severe temperature variations at times, which is hard on windshields. It also brings with it added road hazards, such as the trucks that are busy plowing the snow to the side of the roads. As they are plowing, these trucks can fling chunks of ice into your path. While they are doing this, they are also laying down sand or salt in all directions to reduce the danger of cars slipping on the icy cold roads. Moving all of this snow, sand, and salt adds to the possibility that a passing motorist may toss a pebble or chunk of ice on your windshield. It is a good idea to stay alert when these trucks are around. Give these trucks plenty of space and keep a slow, steady speed. This may aid you in avoiding such an event.

Driving safely within this type of environment still does not ensure that you will not receive a chip or crack in your windshield. While it is tempting to hold off repairing or replacing a damaged windshield until winter is over, it is not a good idea, as changing temperatures add additional stress on the auto glass. It is best to take your vehicle to a National Glass Association certified auto glass company that employs certified technicians, as they can determine whether the windshield can simply be repaired or instead may need a full replacement. Since the windshield is a vital part of a vehicle’s safety system, even a small chip can make it dangerous to drive on winter roads, as the chip can create a weakness in the windshield. A small crack or chip is repairable at a minimal cost; however, the temperature variations tend to speed up the process of potential spider cracks that require windshield replacement, which is more costly. If the chip is in the line of sight of the driver, it is probable that the windshield will need replaced.

"Trivia Question"
What percentage of auto accidents are due to bad weather?

• a) 15%
• b) 18%
• c) 24%

Answer: c) 24%
Researchers and statisticians found that 24% of all crashes occurred during adverse weather conditions,such as ice, snow, and rain.

There are a couple of things to avoid before driving in the winter, for instance, attempting to remove ice from the windshield using hot water. Auto glass is not designed to withstand this rapid and drastic temperature change. Using a plastic ice scraper will help prevent scratching the windshield, which is difficult to buff out.  Avoid using keys, putty knives, or other metal objects to avoid scratches. Plastic ice scrapers cost very little and you could even keep a couple of extras in your car so that you are always prepared. Whatever you do, avoid attempting to drive while looking through a small circle of cleared windshield. Visibility is extremely limited when driving this way. Take a few minutes to either warm up your windshield or scrape off the ice for safety’s sake. If not for that reason, then do it to prevent possibly receiving a costly ticket.

We have all taken unnecessary risks at times with no negative consequences, which encourage us to continue taking risks. Nevertheless, it only takes one reckless decision to change the rest of your life. Drivers in Globe, Bylas, and Central, stop and take a few moments to ensure your windshield is allowing the best visibility to keep you and your family safer.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

The first impact-resistance glass discovered by accident in 1903, by a French chemist named Eduoard Benedictus who dropped a glass beaker onto the floor. It had a coating of plastic cellulose nitrate and though the glass beaker broke the broken pieces stuck together. This new application for glass did not really catch on until World War I, when this application was utilized for the eyepieces of gas masks. World War II created new needs for the use of what we now call bullet-resistant glass. The glass laminates used at this time were much thicker and heavier than the modified versions we use today. There are two types of bullet-resistant glass, one is laminate glass and the other is the version in use today, called polycarbonate thermoplastic glass.

Super Strong!

Drivers of Ehrenberg, Gadsden, Gila Bend and Lukeville: Laminated glass consists of various layers of glass. The outer layer of glass is brittle so it breaks easier, but it flattens and slows bullets. Adding more layers will create a laminate that can withstand greater impact, but at some point becomes impractical due to weight and thickness. Tempered glass breaks into small, equally shaped pieces as opposed to standard glass that breaks or cracks and produces irregular shards, which are more dangerous. 

Super Complex!

Polycarbonate thermoplastic glass is manufactured using a specific variety of ingredients and is recognized by many different brand names such as Lexan, Armormax and Makroclear, among others. The outside layer of glass is harder than the inside layer and is used to slow down and flatten the bullet. Conversely, the inside layer must be softer to give it more flexibility. The polycarbonate thermoplastic layer is sandwiched between two layers of glass to lessen the intensity of the impact by spreading the force out sideways.

Super Safe!

Since the polycarbonate thermoplastic distributes blunt force relatively evenly, it can withstand the impact of a fist or a hammer, whereas the glass layer alone can easily be penetrated. Oddly enough, so could the polycarbonate thermoplastic if used without glass because they work synergistically. As with the older version of laminate glass, the more layers that are bonded together, the greater impact polycarbonate thermoplastic glass can withstand. Polycarbonate thermoplastic glass is between .25 to 3 inches thick, because it weighs less and is thinner; more layers can be put to use and therefore can withstand greater impact than the older version of bullet-resistant laminate glass. If it is anything thicker than that, it is considered armored glass.

Super Expensive!

Bullet-resistant windshields are expensive to make because the thickness required makes the flexibility needed to form and fit a windshield highly difficult. Bulletproof/resistant glass alone costs between $25.00 and $100.00 per square foot. It would be difficult to find any company who would install a bullet-resistant windshield without making the entire vehicle bullet-resistant, because it would be useless if done otherwise. The cost to have this type of windshield would actually raise the overall price. While windshields are what we typically think of when we think of bulletproof glass, a vehicle consists of many windows, which can be utilized, as well as places you may not have thought of. For instance, in police stations, banks, schools, prisons, anywhere security is an issue.

Did You Know?

Residents of Ehrenberg, Gadsden, Gila Bend and Lukeville: Did you know that Bullet-resistant glass has eight levels in which it is rated. The higher the level, the greater the protection. In the US, bullet-resistant glass is tested and rated by the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. National Institute of Justice along with the Underwriter’s Laboratory. Europe also has rating and testing organizations to regulate glass.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Never have I been so appreciative of windshield wipers than when I drove into an unexpected storm.

"Trivia"
Roll, Salome, San Luis and Somerton Drivers: What year was the windshield wiper invented? Answer: in 1903 by Mary Anderson

Before this experience, I had not given windshield wipers a thought. Now, as they swung back and forth creating a clear view, I had a great appreciation for their impact on my driving experience. The fact that such an apparently simple apparatus is so amazingly important fascinated me. I discovered that making windshield wipers is as efficient as the results they provide when in proper working condition.

Residents of Roll, Salome, San Luis and Somerton: The process starts with rubber that is broken down to a fine grain using a mixer. Powdered carbon is then mixed with the rubber for several hours. Workers then cut the rubber from the mixer and feed it into a heat-treating machine before being placed into an extrusion machine, which combines it with a synthetic rubber. Next, the rubber is pressed through a steel dye to form a continuous profile band.

The rubber profile bands are now cooled in a salt bath before being cut into lengths and split in half to form wiping blades with sharp edges. The wipers are then treated with graphite, used to reduce windshield friction, prior to being placed on a grate to dry. The rubber wipers are so smooth they are difficult to grasp, so workers are required to feed them into an assembly machine by hand. Long narrow metal strips are then inserted into the rubber lengthwise giving it tension to maintain its form against the windshield and hold its shape.

Next, a series of automated procedures, starting with a steel coil are put into a stamping machine that repeatedly cuts and bends the steel to form brackets. These brackets connect the wiper blade to the wiper arm, giving it a curved shape that will fit against a variety of windshields.  The wiper blades are then dipped into a vat of black paint to form a base coat. This process is repeated twice and subsequently the two coats of black paint serve as protection against corrosion for several years.

Then, an automated machine sets plastic joints on the smallest brackets and then clips them two at a time on the larger middle bracket. Next, the machine sets an adapter onto the top center bracket so the wiper can be attached to a variety of car wiper arms.

All the trays holding the assembled wiper parts come together and the machine continues its final assembly. Four brackets held by joints branch out from the main center bracket. The brackets hold the wiper blade in eight different places that allows a full range of movement to the wiper blade while applying even pressure all along the blade. These now completely assembled wipers come off the assembler two at a time so workers can visually inspect them. The workers will test the performance of the blades using a rotating sheet of wet glass, they will monitor the friction the blades apply to the glass and gauge their durability.

The wipers are then tested on an opaque black windshield in order to discover how well they work, since it is important to achieve a clean wipe with no streaking. These completed and tested wiper blades have an amazing life span of over a million wipes.

Now I will be confident when I drive in rain knowing the wipers will be doing their job for many years to come.

"Trivia"
Roll, Salome, San Luis, and Somerton residents: What tragic event took place that led to the invention of the intermittent windshield wiper? Answer: The inventor, Robert Kearns, lost his sight in one eye, after being hit in the eye with a champagne bottle cork.

Video: How It's Made Windshield Wipers

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

In 1903, Mary Anderson invented the first windshield wiper. This innovative idea came to her on a trip to New York when she noticed that the trolley car driver had repeatedly wiped the windshield in order to see through rain or snow. As a solution, she invented a swinging arm device that cleared rain or snow from the windshield by using a simple hand-operated crank that inconveniently required help from the driver or passenger to make it work. Unfortunately as innovative as the swinging arm device was, Mary Anderson would never greatly profit from her evolutionary invention.

In 1916, all vehicles manufactured or sold in the United States mandated to be equipped with windshield wipers, but they still required manual help. Then in 1921 with the invention of the automatic windshield wiper called the Folberth, named after its inventor William Folberth, the hand-operated swinging arm device replaced with a single blade wiper run by suction from the engine's intake manifold. This device connected to the inlet pipe of the engine and used pressurized air to operate. The Folberth automatic wipers came with a problem in that wiper speed either increased or decreased with the speed of the vehicle.

By 1926, Bosch developed the electric version of the windshield wiper, which were installed mainly in the most expensive cars as a luxury item. Even then the first electric power wiper blades did not work very well since they would more often malfunction then function properly.

Advisory: Aguila, Ajo, Arlington, Rocksprings; it is very important to either replace or properly maintain your windshield wiper blades, to keep your windshield optically clear.

Concurrently changes were occurring to the type of blades used in the wiper. In 1968 the speed wiper blade was introduced which reduced blade wind resistance and kept the blade from rising off the windshield at high speeds. Then in 1976, an innovation called the slim wiper blade performed even better with wind resistance at even higher speeds. About the same time, West Germany developed a Spoiler type wiper blade that actually utilized wind resistance to improve wiper performance.

While these changes were happening to the blades, a major innovation occurred to the windshield wiper and wiper arms. Formerly wipers were universally silver in color, but eventually were updated to reflect the black with anti glare and corrosion resistant paint that is now used.

It was this period of time that saw the greatest change in the windshield wiper. In 1953 on his wedding night, Mr. Robert Kearns caught a champagne bottle cork in his eye losing his eyesight in that eye. Driving home one evening ten years later, the remaining eye strained due to the rapid back and forth motion of his wipers. As an engineering professor, he had the background and mechanically creative mind to come up with a solution to the problem and in 1963; he invented the intermittent windshield wiper. The intermittent wiper using the concept of intervals and speed settings that adjust to the amount of rainfall, plus the adjustment in color of the wipers, were so successful they are relatively the same ones in use today.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Starting with a plain sheet of glass an automated plotter moves a cutting wheel over it and the wheel scores the glass. Then a robotic arm uses a torch and moves along the score line and the thermal shock completes the cut. Next, a robot suctions up the cut piece of glass and transfers it to the next station, where all the sharp edges of the glass are sanded. This stage of the process is referred to as seaming.

Now a conveyor belt takes the glass through some soapy water to clean it up. Then nozzles spray the glass with a mix of talcum powder and water, this will prevent the glass from sticking to a second sheet of glass. A robot now sets a second piece of glass on top of the freshly sprayed one. The two sheets of glass are layered this way for processing, but will be pulled apart later.

"Trivia Question" Mobile, Stanfield, Red Rock and Picacho Residents: Why do all windshields have a black border around them?  Answer: To hide any imperfections caused by the urethane.

The glass is now silkscreened with black paint around the border of the glass, which will eventually be the inner part of the windshield. Automated arms carry the glass to a station where samples of the glass are visually inspected. Then rollers transfer the glass to automatic squaring pucks, which position them. Then a robot lifts the sheets of glass and carries them to four metal pins. The pins recede and the glass falls onto a bending iron, the bending iron is shaped like a specific windshield.

The conveyor takes the bending iron with the two glass sheets into an oven called a bending Lehr. The Lehr heats the glass sheets to 750 degrees Celsius causing the glass to sink into the shape of the bending iron. Then the glass goes through a slow cooling cycle to anneal or toughen the new shape. Next, a robot picks up a sheet of vinyl cut in the shape of a windshield. Then it takes the vinyl sheet to one of the newly shaped pieces of glass, just separated from the other piece. Then another robot lowers the other identical piece of glass onto the vinyl.

"Trivia Question" Mobile, Stanfield, Red Rock and Picacho Residents: What is the purpose of the vinyl in your windshield?  Answer:  As the glass breaks into small pieces, the vinyl holds the glass together, preventing injury to the occupants of the vehicle.

At this point, there is no clear view through the windshield until it goes through the machine called a nipper. The nipper presses the windshield through a series of rubber rollers squeezing out any air pockets in it. As the air is removed, the view through the vinyl gets a bit clearer. Now squaring pucks position the windshield so robots can attach the bracket for the rear view mirror.

Finally, the windshield is placed in a big blue chamber called the autoclave for one hour to remove any remaining air pockets in the windshield. Before the glass is finished, it undergoes one last visual inspection to make sure there are no chips, blemishes or defects in the windshield. In the event of an accident, the windshield is designed and manufactured for safety due to the laminate used as a safety feature. (Two pieces of auto glass with a layer of vinyl between).

Video: How It's Made - Windshields

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Prior to the invention of windshields people used goggles to protect their eyes from bugs, dirt, wind and rain.

Residents of Bouse, Cibola, Congress, and Dateland: A Sense of Relief

Currently windshields have attributes such as the ability to reduce heat buildup by reflecting the infrared light waves from direct sunlight and the ability to block-out 99% of the suns harmful ultra violet light. More importantly, your windshield can contribute as much as 60% to the support of the roof of your vehicle during a rollover accident. These are just some of the windshields innovative attributes.  Who knows what the future holds? Perhaps a plasma shield and no glass at all!

Video: 1954 Buick Special New Windshield Commercial

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

The tempering process begins by cutting raw glass to an exact size and shape, then smoothing the sharp edges. Side and rear windows undergo a silk screening process. In addition, the electric circuit for heated rear windows is screened on with a silver ceramic paste that bonds to the glass as it bakes. The bending process follows and the glass is then transported through a furnace with temperatures as high as 1500 degrees Fahrenheit. Curved rolls, presses or bending rings are used to shape the hot glass and then pressurized air-cools it quickly. The window looks like ordinary glass but it is much stronger. Nevertheless, if tempered glass does break, it disintegrates into small fragments with rounded edges. 

Residents of Parker, Palo Verde, Morristown, and Circle City: The tempering process makes the auto glass in your vehicle stronger and safer, protecting you and your family in the event of a head on or rollover accident.

The Laminating Process

The windshield laminating process begins when two pieces of glass are cut to an exact pattern. Then the edges are smoothed and the cut glass is washed, dried and matched together. A black paint border is silk screened on the inside surface and the matched pieces of glass are then placed on bending irons and moved through a furnace called a Lehr. Heat softens the glass allowing it to conform to the shape of the bending irons. After the glass cools, it travels into a climate controlled dust free room where it is sandwiched together with a strong vinyl interlayer. At this point, the heat and pressure of an autoclave permanently bond the glass and vinyl into a single transparent windshield. 

Residents of Parker, Palo Verde, Morristown, and Circle City: This process creates what is known as a see-through sandwich! (Your Windshield)

Solar Reflective Windshields

Solar reflective windshields are made with a hi-tech coating process.  Pittsburgh Plate Glass (PPG), an auto glass manufacturer, produces a windshield made with state of the art equipment, creates a remarkable solar reflective coating. This superior coating gives their Sungate automotive windshield the ability to reject 60% of the suns total energy and 99% of the suns damaging ultra violet rays, further reducing the chance of getting sunburn or worse yet skin cancer.

Video: Auto Glass Manufacturing 

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Before the glass is cut, a special powder is dropped on the surface of the glass providing a separation medium between each piece of glass. Then the glass is cut by scoring it with carbide cutting wheels and then snapping it over a roller, which acts like a fulcrum. Mainline scoring equipment consists of slit cutters that score the ribbon of glass in the direction of the flow, and crosscutters score it across the flow. After scoring the glass, a continuous ribbon of glass comes to the mainline snap rolls where cross-cutter scores are open.

Next the plates of glass are routed down the mainline one plate at a time or in small groups. The glass is then moved from the mainline conveyors to the automatic packing lines by means of a corner table, a belt conveyor and rolls conveyor. The glass leaves the corner table and enters the snapping conveyors where the slit cutter scores are open. After the snapped section of glass is cleared, it is transferred one section at a time onto a series of narrow conveyors.

The glass is automatically inspected and reject glass is recycled through the plants culet system and is eventually reused in the batching process. Finally, the glass is conveyed onto the automatic vacuum transfer module (VTM) which operates like a vacuum cleaner, sucking the individual lites of glass off the main conveyor onto the finished step. As the stack of glass gets higher an elevator table indexes down to maintain consistent drop of glass. Once the stack is complete, the elevator table is lowered and the finished container is moved aside while an empty container is moved under the packing module.

An off-line part of the manufacturing process is known as the MSVD chamber or magnetic sputter vacuum deposition. This is where proprietary high performance low emissivity coatings are applied to the glass.  During this process cut pieces of glass are rolled into a vacuum chamber were microscopic layers of various metals, primarily silver, are bonded to the glass. Throughout the process, periodic quality inspections are performed and finally the container is sealed and shipped out to customers in Tortilla Flat, Valley Farms, Winkelman, Dudleyville, Fort McDowell, Phoenix and other cities and towns around the globe.

Return to: part one

Video: How Glass is Made part 2

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

"Important Information"
Residents of Kearny, Hayden, Toltec, Eleven Mile, and Eleven Mile Corner: Gradually cooling the glass, is an important process that actually builds the strength into the glass.

 At its final width and thickness, the glass is cooled down by a series of water coolers, which brings the temperature of the glass down to around 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. Then the glass is safely moved onto the main-lines conveyor, which moves the glass into the Lehr where it is further cooled down at a controlled rate in order to insure the proper stresses are put into the glass to make it cut well. After cooling, the glass comes out of the Lehr at about 350 degrees Fahrenheit where it is further cooled down by large open-air fans bringing the temperature down to about 200 degrees Fahrenheit. While the glass moves through this cooling down area, the glass is carefully inspected prior to the cutting operation.

Continue to: part two

Video: How Glass is Made part 1

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

The glass in your vehicle is manufactured to block out bugs, rocks, rain, and wind and serves a greater purpose in the infrastructure of your vehicle in case of a rollover accident. As you drive down the road and scan the horizon with perfect clarity, it is the windshield and its many attributes that make it all possible. The glass can refract sunlight and block-out heat or ultra violet (UV) light, which could greatly reduce the risk of serious sunburn or cancer, making the windshield or the glass in your vehicle a major benefit to your well-being.

SunTec Auto Glass understands the importance of using only the best quality auto glass available for your vehicle and more importantly for the safety of you and your family. If you are in San Tan Valley, Superstition Mountain, Queen Valley, Bapchule, Sacaton, or Maricopa and Pinal Counties require windshield replacement, auto glass repair, window tinting or glass etching, contact SunTec Auto Glass to handle those chips and breaks in your windshield.

Did you know Glass comes from many different sources?

Humans have been making glass for about 5,000 years. The word glass originated from the Latin term glesum meaning transparent lustrous substance. The earliest use of glass probably occurred in ancient Egypt where glass items were considered luxuries found only in the tombs of priests and royalty. The yellow-green scarab at the heart of King Tut’s pendant is made of glass that is millions of years old. The glass in King Tut’s pendant was made with the help of a meteorite that crashed into the Egyptian desert melting the sand forming a type of glass called tektite, which comes from the Greek word tektos meaning molten.

Residents of San Tan Valley, Superstition Mountain, Queen Valley, Bapchule, and Sacaton: RADIATION AWARENESS
                      
A nuclear device nicknamed "the gadget" was hoisted to the top of a 100-foot-tall steel tower and detonated in New Mexico at the White Sands Proving Grounds on July 16, 1945. With a searing light and intensity many times that of the midday sun, an explosion of intense heat carved a large crater in the desert sand, which is largely made of silica melted, thus becoming a mildly radioactive light green glass named Trinitite. The glass in your vehicle is also, mostly made up of silica sand giving it that slight greenish tint minus the radiation.

SunTec Auto Glass purchases all of our auto glass from original equipment manufacturers such as Pilkington, Guardian, Carlite, and Pittsburgh plate glass. These are among the best auto glass manufacturers that produce and supply auto glass for many vehicle manufacturers in the United States and abroad.

Video: Auto Glass Manufacturing

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Usually, the auto insurance company will waive the deductible for windshield repair if no other damage is claimed. This is commonly referred to as a 'glass only' claim. If the chip or crack is larger than a credit card or dollar bill, the auto insurance company would require that the windshield be replaced and the deductible, if any, would apply, unless your comprehensive auto insurance policy carries an auto glass endorsement which would make the deductible not applicable. The Arizona Department of Insurance regulates statutes that have made this possible.

→ ARS20-264 requires insurers to offer full auto glass coverage. This is made possible by adding an auto glass endorsement that is available with comprehensive insurance coverage. This endorsement covers ‘glass only’ claims and it is important to ask for this endorsement to be included on your auto insurance policy when getting your vehicle insured. It costs a little bit more but is well worth having.

Utilizing this information can save you hundreds of dollars in the event your windshield or any other automotive glass becomes damaged. If you are not sure whether your existing auto insurance policy includes the necessary endorsement, it would be a good idea to call the auto insurance company and take the necessary steps to ensure the auto glass endorsement is included in your auto insurance policy, giving you peace of mind. Arizona has another statute that prevents insurers from increasing your auto insurance rates because of any ‘no fault’ auto glass claims you have filed.

→ ARS20-263 makes Arizona a ‘no-fault' claim state, which means your insurance premium, cannot be directly increased because you filed an auto glass claim. It is possible however that your insurance company may choose not to continue insuring you when it comes time to renew your policy leaving you vulnerable to paying higher premiums to another insurer depending on the number of claims you have made.

It would be beneficial to speak with an experienced auto glass company prior to contacting your auto insurance company with yet another auto glass claim. A knowledgeable auto glass company may know of other options that may be available to you such as warranties or specials that would alleviate the need to contact your auto insurance company at all. Another Arizona statute gives you the right to choose which auto glass company you would like to perform the work on your vehicle.

→ ARS20-469 gives you the right to choose which auto glass company you want to use. The insurance company may suggest a specific auto glass repair company, but they cannot penalize you if you choose your own auto glass repair company. What they can do is barrage you with a series of questions and try steer you towards the auto glass company of their choice. By choosing your own auto glass company, you can choose an auto glass company that may offer the following:

1. Warranty that meets and exceeds the warranty of the auto glass company that the auto insurance company may have suggested, such as an auto glass company that may offer lifetime chip repairs without having to make a future windshield repair claim.
   
   
2. Specials that the auto insurance companies' suggested auto glass company cannot or will not offer, but other auto glass companies may offer, such as dinners, gas, and movie passes. These specials and promotions come out of the auto glass company's profits and losses and are not added to what the auto insurance company is going to pay. Since auto insurance companies are in total control of the pricing, the auto glass company either accepts the auto insurance companies' rates or the auto glass company cannot do the job for the insured, through their auto insurance policy.
   
   
3. Choosing your own auto glass company gives you the option of having Original Equipment Manufactured glass installed. This is an automobile manufacturer endorsed auto glass. Since the agenda for most auto insurance companies is to save money, letting the auto insurance company choose an auto glass company for you, may leave you with aftermarket glass. Aftermarket glass can be a wild card, as the specifications may differ from that of your original manufactured windshield. Aftermarket glass may have poor optical quality, uneven thickness, and may cause leaks or wind noise.  

Choosing your own auto glass company can empower you to make the best choice for you and your family. Using due diligence when choosing an auto glass company may ensure that you and your family are safer as a direct result of making your own decision.

→ Arizona law ARS28-957.01. (A) Makes it illegal to operate a vehicle with a windshield that is not adequate; and it is solely up to the ticketing officer and what he deems adequate. The adequate windshield law is very vague and leaves a lot up to interpretation. What you may surmise to be a small crack, chip or scratch may result in an Arizona windshield fix-it-ticket. Putting off the repair or replacement of your damaged windshield may not only result in a fix-it-ticket, but it puts the safety of you and your family at risk of an accident that may be caused as a direct result of a windshield that is not adequate.

As you can see there are many paths that can be taken and starting out on the right foot will save you time and money, as well as potentially keeping you and your family as safe as the auto glass was originally manufactured for.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

These are just some of the factors that have gone into the forefront of auto glass technology. Take an imaginary journey from the earliest history of the automobile to the “other side”, where auto glass is no longer just a means to provide protection.

Imagine the Past of Peoria Auto Glass

Slip on those goggles and rain gear, and let us begin the trip in a vehicle with a folding windshield! The earliest windshields, introduced by 1904, allowed the driver to tip the top half down for an unobstructed view. These “wrap-around” windshields were actually considered a luxury and sold as optional equipment for motorists. By as late as 1919, nine out of ten cars had only a one-person top and side curtains. It was not until 1929 that the majority of vehicles were equipped with glass all around to provide protection from wind, rain, mud splashes, road dust, and flying debris.

Two inventors were responsible for the inception of safety glass, which was originally developed in 1905: French scientist Edouard Benedictus accidentally discovered safety glass when he knocked a flask to the floor containing nitrocellulose; it had dried up leaving an adhesive film, which kept the bits of fragmented glass from separating. In addition, British inventor, John C. Wood, had developed his own method, which was produced under the brand name Triplex.

Some additional auto glass breakthroughs include the following:

PPG’s first solar glass, Solex, brought about a change in style and comfort in 1952 by absorbing some of the infrared, heat-producing part of the solar spectrum to avoid interior damage.

Curved side windows began to appear in the early 60’s and fabricating techniques were created to permit drilling of holes in side windows for anchoring and lifting mechanisms. This meant more styling, flexibility, and the opportunity to add more built-in safety features.

Current & Future Auto Glass Trends

Drivers of Peoria, Surprise, Litchfield Park, Mirage, and Buckeye:

A Clearer Perspective of Auto Glass Today and the Future.

According to Auto Glass magazine, published by the National Glass Association, the amount of auto glass used in a car has been growing steadily at two to three percent a year; meaning that vehicles have 25 percent more glass than 20 years ago. The following bullets represent current and future trends for the industry:

• Increasing popularity of electrochromic mirrors represent another growth trend for upcoming vehicle models. This product lessens the glare from car lights, reducing the danger of night driving.
• Laminated auto glass, made by placing clear plastic film between two glass panes, then sealing using heat and pressure, has also become very popular. Laminated auto glass offers improved sound control, and many buyers like the idea of a quieter vehicle. Vehicle owners also want auto glass products to absorb more of the sun's ultraviolet rays and heat.
• PPG’s Sungate® windshield provides heat reflective coating laminated between the two layers of glass effectively blocking 60 percent of the sun’s total energy.  This attribute keeps the car's interior cooler and blocks damaging ultraviolet radiation. The Sungate® antenna windshield provides full range AM/FM radio reception, eliminating the need for an exterior mast antenna.
• The price of energy affects the development of auto glass, glaziers and designers are constantly developing alternate ways to improve auto glass efficiency on vehicles including the use of different coatings, which will continue to grow.

Video: A Day of Glass

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Your vehicle’s windshield consists of two sheets of tempered glass with a layer of laminate sandwiched between them and in the event the glass breaks, the layer of laminate holds the broken pieces together. The space shuttle’s windshield also has a layer of laminate sandwiched between two sheets of tempered glass. However, the space shuttle’s windshield consists of three individual windshields, bonded together to create one thick windshield. The outer windshield is .6 inches thick and protects the cockpit and its occupants from the heat experienced during launch and re-entry. The middle windshield is three and a half inches thick, has pressure and thermal protection attributes and is of high optical quality. The inner windshield is .6 inches thick and is part of the cockpit’s pressurization system. 

Did You Know? 

Yuma, Martinez Lake, and Poston Drivers: Auto glass UV Coatings help decrease the risk of cancer, and helps protect the interior of your vehicle from fading and cracking!

Your vehicle’s windshield has UV protective coatings that block up to 99% of UVA and UVB light. The space shuttle’s windshield also has UV protective coatings and since space shuttles are exposed to such a high degree of sun glare, they have shades that are put in place manually when their use is required. Obviously, it would be impossible to utilize such protective shades on automobiles. 

Your vehicle’s windshield and the space shuttle’s windshield are made to withstand varying degrees of expansion and contraction related to temperature changes. Your vehicle’s windshield requires far less protection than the space shuttle’s windshield, which is exposed to temperatures ranging between negative two hundred and fifty degrees below zero and three thousand degrees Fahrenheit. 

From Rocks to Meteorites

Your vehicle requires only one windshield, whereas the space shuttle requires the use of several smaller windshields. The largest of these windshields are the two that are above the crew compartment and are just large enough to be utilized as an emergency exit. Your vehicle’s windshield is designed aerodynamically to deflect rocks and the space shuttle’s windshield is designed aerodynamically to deflect micrometeorites.

Your vehicle is coated in primer and paint in order to protect against rust and the elements. The space shuttle is covered with glass coated tiles and has a mixture of ninety percent air and ten percent slurry that consists of fibers mixed with water. The tiles are coated with reaction cured glass sintered (heated without being melted), which causes them to be rigid. Upon the space shuttles’ re-entry into earth’s atmosphere the heat is so intense it would melt metal in a matter of seconds, yet the glass remains stable. Most interestingly, these tiles can be taken from an oven that is heated to twenty three hundred degrees Fahrenheit and can be immediately immersed in cold water without damaging the glass. The surface heat dissipates so quickly that the tiles can be held by their edges without using gloves, only seconds after removing them from an oven, and while their interior is still glowing red-hot.  

Glass for all Environments

Yuma, Martinez Lake, and Poston Drivers: It is difficult to believe that glass may be used under such intense environments, since the glass we deal with on a daily basis appears to be fragile, when in fact it can be extremely durable. Your vehicle’s windshield is made to withstand some of the harshest treatments and is strong enough to be part of a vehicle’s structural integrity. Your vehicle’s windshield has the ability to keep you and your family safe within its environment. However, it could never withstand the intense environment to which the space shuttle is exposed. In the end, what we perceive to be fragile can in fact be made to withstand a variety of extreme conditions and environments.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Humans have been making glass for about 5,000 years. The word glass originated from the Latin term glesum meaning transparent lustrous substance. The earliest use of glass probably occurred in ancient Egypt where glass items were considered luxuries found only in the tombs of priests and royalty. The yellow-green scarab at the heart of King Tut’s pendant is made of glass that is millions of years old. The glass in King Tut’s pendant is made with the help of a meteorite that crashed into the Egyptian desert melting the sand forming a type of glass called tektite, which comes from the Greek word tektos meaning molten.
                       
A nuclear device nicknamed "the gadget" was hoisted to the top of a 100-foot-tall steel tower and detonated in New Mexico at the White Sands Proving Grounds on July 16, 1945. With a searing light and intensity many times that of the midday sun, an explosion of intense heat carved a large crater in the desert sand, which is largely made of silica melted, thus becoming a mildly radioactive light green glass named Trinitite. The glass in your vehicle is also mostly made up of silica sand giving it that slight greenish tint minus the radiation.

SunTec Auto Glass purchases all of our auto glass from original equipment manufacturers such as Pilkington, Guardian, Carlite and Pittsburgh plate glass. These are among the best auto glass manufacturers that produce and supply auto glass for many vehicle manufacturers in the United States and abroad.

What is Glass used for?

Did you know Glass has numerous applications?

            
The glass in your vehicle is used to block out bugs, rocks, rain, and wind and serves a greater purpose in the infrastructure of your vehicle in case of a roll-over. As you drive down the road and scan the horizon with perfect clarity it is the windshield and its many attributes that make it all possible. The glass can refract sunlight and block-out heat or ultra violet (UV) light which could greatly reduce the risk of serious sunburn or cancer, making the windshield or the glass in your vehicle a major benefit to your well being.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

The credit for discovering a way to repair windshields goes to Dr. Frank Werner, a renowned scientist from Wyoming. He had 77 patents for various applications and products such as the ski-boot bindings. He had replaced three windshields in rapid succession due to the rough Wyoming terrain and decided there had to be some way to repair windshields rather than requiring a complete windshield replacement each time a windshield was dinged or cracked. He worked with a chemical engineer by the name of Bill Wiele who developed a clear adhesive resin that matched the windshield glass optically and together they developed a windshield repair system.

 "Trivia Question"

Tacna, Tonopah and Waddell residents: At what size does a chip have to be before the entire windshield must be replaced? Answer: The chip must be larger than a quarter.

The credit for distributing the windshield repair process to the public goes to Gerald Keinath who in 1972 bought the patent rights for the windshield repair system from Dr. Werner. Gerald Keinath incorporated a company called Novus and designed a business plan in order to bring windshield repair to the public for the first time. Initially, the original equipment was too heavy for one person to carry. During the years since, others have perfected the windshield repair equipment and the resin used for the windshield repair process. Now the windshield repair equipment could almost fit in your pocket.

Before the early 1970’s, an oil based resin was used for cosmetic purposes only. The resin was poured onto the damaged area allowing the chip on the windshield to absorb the oil-based resin thus hiding the damage. In 1971, the 3M Company became the first to produce equipment to repair windshields and named it ‘ScotchWeld’. The windshield repair process used ultra sound vibrations and a syringe to inject resin or other adhesives into the damaged area. The windshield repair equipment was expensive to manufacture and was so large the bed of a pick-up truck had to be used to transport the windshield repair equipment. This made it difficult for them to lease or to sell the product because it was so cumbersome. Though 3M introduced windshield repair to the insurance companies, they eventually decided to focus on other products.

Mort Gallub, the owner of a company called Glass Medic, which was the largest auto reconditioning operation along the east coast, had been following the burgeoning windshield repair process as it was being developed and improved, because replacing damaged windshields cut into his profit margins. After experimenting with existing windshield repair systems, he hired a research engineer and together they developed a ‘vacuum pump’ process which he began marketing and using in his business.

The number of windshield repair companies continued to grow during the next few years. Companies such as Harmon Glass, Auto Glass Specialists, and Delta Kits had their start during this period. By the mid 1980s, the number of windshield repair companies had greatly expanded with the formation of  Glass Technology, Liquid Resins International, Tri-Glass, Glass Mechanics, and Ultra Bond to name a few. The focus varied among these companies with some focusing on improving the equipment, some companies focused on creating quality resins and others set their sites on marketing the windshield repair system.

"Trivia Question"
Tacna, Tonopah and Waddell Drivers: How long does a crack have to be before the entire windshield has to be replaced? Answer: 6 inches or larger than a dollar bill.

Over the next decade, the windshield repair process continued to grow. In 1998, Safelite Auto Glass, the largest glass replacement retailer in the United States, began focusing on windshield repair and created a new unit that specialized just in auto glass repair. Today, they are one of the largest auto glass repair companies.

It is expected by industry insiders that the windshield repair process will continue to grow and improvements will continue to be discovered, not only in the United States and in Europe, but in many other parts of the world as well. We can be confident that windshield repair will continue its odyssey of discovery and to the benefit of everyone that owns a vehicle. Still, it is always possible that if not for Wyoming’s rough terrain and Dr. Werner, we would still be required to replace damaged windshields rather than repair them.

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google

Windshield Repair in Sun City: Going Green

Jay Sampson, Chairman of NGA’s National Windshield Repair Committee states, “Windshield repair professionals save consumers and their insurance companies millions of dollars annually."

1. Repairing and extending the useful life of millions of costly windshields.
2. Repairs also save the precious fossil fuels that would otherwise be wasted to produce replacement windshields.
3. Windshield repair saves money for customers and delivers “green” benefits. Every windshield saved is one less non-biodegradable windshield passed on to our already overcrowded landfills.

According to Leo Cyr, vice president of NGA's Auto Glass Division, "The NGA condemns any and all forms of fraud, insurance or otherwise. There can be no excuse for filing an insurance claim if the windshield is undamaged. By the same token, windshields are vital automotive safety components. To operate a vehicle with a damaged windshield could adversely affect proper deployment of some passenger side airbags, or, compromise the structural integrity and crush resistance of virtually all vehicles."

How do you know if the individual is a certified auto glass professional?

The next time someone approaches you at a car wash or parking lot, be sure to ask if their installers are trained, NGA certified auto glass technicians.

SunTec Auto Glass of Phoenix is proud to say that we meet all four of the critical criteria for a highly trained windshield repair or replacement professional. This includes: 

1. NGA Logo (National Glass Association) trained and certified technicians so that you can be assured we are up-to-date on the latest auto glass technology and best practices.
2. Endorse AGRSS (Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard) for the use of proper adhesive, corrosion treatment and prevention.
3. Utilize the recommended number of auto glass technicians for auto glass replacement and windshield repair.
4. Adhere to the safe drive-away time to ensure that the adhesive used will have adequate time to bond.

Stay Tuned for More on Phoenix Windshield Scams

Check out the next article (part 2), where we will show you some of the typical ways scammers approach drivers in an attempt to make money off your auto insurance policy, and subsequently, from the increase in your premiums!

By Paul Ryans | Find us on Google