Auto Glass how to Replace Auto Glass
Replacing Auto Glass is a very specialized vocation. Yes, when you watch while the local glass company replaces your windshield, it seems simple and straight forward. There is absolutely more to the process then meets the eye.
Current production cars and trucks have windshields that are bonded to the car body and actually provide part of the strength to the complete structure. Glass is much stronger then it was in years past, and now is figured into the equation when the manufacturer is determining integral strength of the body.
The adhesive used to bond the glass to the body is very specialized. It has a limited shelf life, and if not installed exactly as it is designed , will not bond the glass to the body. In the event of an accident the windshield would very likely pop off the car, providing no added strength to the car.
The result may be a collapsed passenger compartment, as well as flying debris from glass that should have stayed attached to the body, but didn't. This may make the difference between a less serious and survivable accident turning into one with serious injuries or death.
Rear windows are installed with the same special bonding material and also provide part of the structural strength of the body. Side windows, those that do not rise and lower, fall into the same category.
Windows that raise and lower are held into a special channel. Again they could be held in with a special adhesive, or at the very least they are a pressed fit that without proper equipment you would be unable to duplicate.
Long gone is the days of using an inexpensive bead removal tool to remove an inserted rubber bead strip from around a molded rubber gasket and carefully working the window out. Then reversing the process to replace it with one retrieved from the local junk yard.
Today's process is easy for those that are properly trained, and are using the proper bonding agents as required by the original manufacturer of the vehicle.
In the unlikely event you do get your hands on an undamaged used glass for your car, think twice before you try to install it with silicone, or some other adhesive you bought off the shelf at Wal-Mart. In the event of an accident you could be seriously injured or killed as a result of your short cut. As well could anyone else involved in the accident. Also by doing so, you have removed the manufacturer from any liability in the issue, and placed your self at the head of the list for law suits. This includes after you sell or trade the car off with your home grown repair.
By now I'm sure you realize the best way for you to replace any auto glass is to reach for the yellows pages, call around for the best price, and let the professionals do the job right.
