The 5 things to know

Am I using a reputable installation facility?

A reputable installer will:

• Allow you to choose which glass brand you want to use
• Understand the importance of using an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) equivalent to protect you and the value of your car
• Be able to explain the critical performance specifications of your vehicle glass (such as Solar Optimization) and what they mean to you.

Am I getting replacement glass with equivalent performance specifications to my original equipment?

Your car's windshield and sidelites came off the dealership lot with specific performance characteristics. Some aftermarket replacement glass parts do not match these original performance specifications. These inferior glass products can have:

• Reduced or no acoustic properties
• Non-Solar Optimized properties (think - increased heat buildup in your car & needing to use the air conditioner a lot more)
• Poor optics
• Poor surface control (think - wind noise & wiper blade missing spots)

All glass is not created equally, demand that your glass be replaced with it's original performance specifications.

Am I choosing replacement glass that meets or exceeds Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards?

One of the main reasons for these standards is to ensure that your windshield can resist breakage and penetration in a collision. Choosing a glass that meets or exceeds these standards helps reduce injuries, fatalities, and the ejection of vehicle occupants during a crash. OEM equivalent glass from Pilkington exceeds FMVSS.

Am I getting a value by choosing a less expensive glass?

Of course, price matters. But installing inferior replacement glass can create a host of new problems that may cost you more in the long run. Quality windshield replacement glass should:

• Be accurately cut and finely polished during the edging process to ensure proper fit, minimize wind noise, and minimize cracks (lower quality aftermarket glass will often be manufactured to lower tolerances, resulting in ill-fitting installations, leading to a number of potential problems like leaks, stress cracks and increased vulnerability to damage).
• Have surface control so the wipers fit the glass appropriately
• Offer the same performance specifications of your original equipment insofar as solar protection, noise cancellation and performance of added features like rain, light and/or condensation sensors are concerned.

Will the glass be installed using high quality urethane adhesive?

High quality adhesives are tested in extreme temperatures (hot and cold) to ensure proper bonding is in place. These adhesives dry faster, so your car can be ready within a “safe drive-away time.” Inferior adhesives may not set as quickly, endangering you and your passengers if there is an accident immediately after installation. Be sure that the safe drive away time for your installation is explained to you, as it varies depending both on the type & quality of glue as well as the number of airbags in your car. A good technician will be familiar with and forthright about the products he or she is using.