The Importance of Windshields

When cars were first coming into use in the early 1900s, the windshield was an optional feature.  Because of the slow speed of the automobile back then, there was very little risk of being thrown from the vehicle.  By the mid-to-late 1910s, the windshield started to become more prevalent in newer model vehicles.  However, the early version of auto glass was very brittle and like normal glass, shattered into large shards which would cause injury or death to some automobile drivers in the event of an accident.  Right about the same time, it was Henry Ford who began to look for a better product more suited to higher speed automobiles.  Auto glass engineers began experimenting with molten glass and the effects that heat has on it.  This is where the laminated glass concept came from and quickly grew in popularity with auto manufacturers, due to its strength and resistance to shattering.  The laminated glass would bend and flex before it would ever shatter.

Growth Over The Years

By the 1920s all automobiles were using laminated glass for their windshields.  From there, the technology for automobile windshields began to evolve very quickly.  By the 1930s, a special urethane was invented that allowed the windshield to bond to the frame of the car more securely and increase safety measures for the passengers.  By the late 1930s, auto glass manufacturers created a special resin that would block ultraviolet rays.  This accomplished 2 things.  First, it protected the passenger from the dangerous rays.  Second, it would prevent the windshield glass from discoloring over time.  By the 1950’s it was more popular for the windshield to be curved or rounded to give the driver a greater view of their surroundings.  By the 1960s the government began to regulate the strength of windshields for safety purposes.  

Modern Windshields


As cars evolved over time, the auto glass was forced to evolve as well.  Today, the windshield is not just a luxury item that makes your ride more enjoyable.  The automobiles manufactured today use the laminated windshield as a structural component of the car.  In the event of an accident, the windshield serves several safety purposes.  That is why it is so vital for you to properly maintain and repair or replace your windshield if you ever find yourself with a chip or a crack.  Although it might be a small chip or crack, it can quickly grow into a larger issue and even become a safety issue over time.  Windshield replacement Edmond OK is the premier location in central Oklahoma to get your windshield repaired or replaced.  If you have any existing damage to your windshield or auto glass, visit us today to ensure the safety of you and your passengers.