Your windscreen cracks, but your side window shatters into small pieces. That difference is deliberate, and it comes from two different kinds of safety glass.
Laminated glass
A laminated windscreen is two layers of glass bonded to a clear film. When it is hit, it cracks but the film holds the pieces together. This keeps the screen in place, keeps you protected and keeps your view of the road. Every windscreen is laminated, and some newer cars have laminated side windows too.
Toughened glass
Toughened glass is a single pane that has been heat-treated. It is strong, but when it breaks, it breaks completely, into small, blunt pieces. Most side windows, quarter lights and rear screens are toughened.
Why both are used
- A windscreen has to stay in one piece, so it is laminated.
- A side or rear window may need to break so people can get out or be reached, so it is toughened.
What it means for you
A laminated windscreen with a crack can still look intact, so do not ignore it. A broken toughened window needs replacing straight away. Either way, send us a photo and your registration, and we will bring the matching glass.
