What Is Tempered Glass?

Tempered auto glass is the main safety feature installed in cars. It is much stronger and cannot break easily compared to general glass. Its high thermal stress resistivity prevents it from getting damaged during hot weather. Tempered auto glass also provides safety in braking and is a cost-effective solution for car windows.

Tempered auto glass involves heating the glass to high temperatures and cooling it rapidly. This improves the strength of the resulting glass, which is four to five times stronger than regular glass. Because of its extreme tensile strength, the glass can withstand a large impact. Tempered glass is for the side and rear windows, whereas laminated glass is preferable for windshields. If it breaks, it shatters into tiny chunks, which decreases the likelihood of serious harm to the people inside. 

• Improved Strength and Hardiness

The most important advantage of tempered glass is its strength. The heating and cooling method develops interior tensions within the glass, which makes it stronger and more resistant to breaking. This makes it very useful in side and rear windows, exposing them to more hits and pressures on the outer side. The chances of tempered auto glass shattering are minimal, even if it is hit by a minor accident or some object. This provides better protection for the passengers.

• Safety in Breaking

When tempered glass breaks, it breaks into small and round pieces, thus reducing the possibility of injuries from sharp points. This is one of the safety features for vehicle passengers since there are fewer chances of suffering deep wounds from broken glass. On the contrary, even though laminated glass will not break, a broken piece of tempered glass will prevent passengers from sustaining big jagged pieces of shattered glass​.

• Thermal Stress Resistivity

Tempered glass resists temperature stresses. Therefore, it is useful for windows subjected to changing weather, as a sudden temperature change can shatter the usual glass. Tempered glass is stronger and more secure at extreme temperatures without compromising passenger safety​.

• Cost Effectiveness 

Tempered glass is more affordable than laminated glass for the side and rear windows. Thus, the replacement cost of tempered glass is economical compared to the laminated glass used for windshields. 

• Clean With Mild Soaps: Use automotive glass cleaners, and avoid abrasive materials, as they might scratch the surface.
• Check For Cracks: If the side and rear windows have cracks or chips, check periodically since these may break the glass into pieces.
• Do Not Slam the Car Doors: Avoid slamming the car doors, as it exerts too much force on the glass.
• Fix Damage Early: When cracks or chips happen, seek professionals like Blue Diamond Auto Glass. While tempered glass is not repairable like laminated glass, the earlier it undergoes replacement, the safer it will be for everyone

Tempered auto glass is an excellent safety feature in the car that provides strength, durability, and resistance to thermal stress. It has a shatterproof design and is highly affordable compared to other glass types. Thus, it is suitable for the side and rear windows of the vehicle. For a vehicle owner, tempered glass will provide reliability and durability, giving peace of mind on the road.