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| Frequently Asked Questions Dealing with Windshield Installation |
| Q: What holds your windshield in place? A: Auto makers use urethane adhesive to bond the windshield to the body of the car. |
| Q: What does the windshield do for your safety? A: The windshield provides major structural strength. It helps support your car's roof if your car rolls over. It also keeps all of you in the car. |
| Q: How do you know your windshield was safe to begin with? A: There are stiff requirements imposed upon the manufacturers of motor vehicles by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Vehicle manufacturers must certify each make and model of car to a specified roof crush test (FMVSS 216) and windshield retention test (FMVSS 212). Both the adhesive and the installation process must pass these actual destructive tests. |
| When you replace a windshield, be sure it is bonded only with the same adhesive approved for the original installation. |
| Q: What are the installer's other adhesive choices when
replacing a windshield? A: Silicone and butyl were once the most commonly used sealants. Essex urethane adhesive, which is 90 times stronger than silicone or butyl, is used for most cars today. |
| Q: Will your replacement windshield give the same protection as
the original? A: Most auto glass installers are concerned about passenger safety. They use an Essex adhesive to replace your glass with bond strength equal to that of the manufacturers original installation. Some installers use a replacement adhesive that is not certified to pass Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards testing. Even worse, they advertise passing FMVSS 212, and ignore FMVSS 216. Be sure to ask. |
| Q: Why is it important to wait the prescribed time to drive
away? A: For safety in both retention (212) and roll-over (216), it takes time. The longer the urethane cures, the stronger the bond and the safer the car. Safe drive away time depends on the temperature and relative humidity. The installer can show you the results of typical tests run at 70° F and 50% RH. And for the next two or three days after drive away, it is recommended to open windows slightly and to avoid slamming doors or washing the car. Professional installers may suggest additional safety precautions. |
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