Understanding the basics of autoglass replacement is crucial for any vehicle owner. Auto glass, including windshields, doors, quarters, vents, and back glasses, plays a significant role in your vehicle’s safety. At Glas Tek, we only use top-tier autoglass that meets or exceeds Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), ensuring that you receive nothing but the best in quality and safety.

Types of Autoglass

There are two primary types of safety auto glass used in autoglass replacements:

Laminated Autoglass:
This type of auto glass consists of two layers of glass with a plastic vinyl sheet in between, called polyvinyl butyral (PVB). Laminated auto glass is designed for windshields, providing strength and safety by keeping the glass intact during accidents or impacts.

Tempered Autoglass:
Used primarily in side windows and back glass replacements, tempered auto glass is made through a rapid heating and cooling process, making it four to five times stronger than standard glass.

Windshield Colors and Shades

Most laminated windshields now come with a shade band across the top of the glass to reduce sun glare, improving driver visibility. This band typically comes in blue, green, or gray, depending on the vehicle’s interior. Note that tempered auto glass does not have this shaded area as it is added to the vinyl layer of laminated glass.

Autoglass Monogram

Every piece of autoglass comes with a monogram (often called a “bug”), which serves as an identification mark. This monogram contains the following information:

• Manufacturer’s trademark (brand/type)
• Manufacturer’s logo
• Plant code (where the part was made)
• Type of auto glass (laminated or tempered)
• Month and year of manufacture
• Model number
• Department of Transportation (DOT) certification number

For more detailed information, you can visit the DOT Database to find out who manufactured your autoglass by entering the two or three-digit number located on your glass part.

“AS” Designations

The “AS” designations on your autoglass indicate the amount of light that can pass through the glass, a key safety feature regulated by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Common designations include:

• AS-1: All auto glass, including windshields
• AS-2: All autoglass except windshields
• AS-3: Privacy glass behind the driver’s front door
• AS-14: Anti-lacerative windshields (less common today)

By choosing Glas Tek for your autoglass replacement needs, you are opting for quality, safety, and top-tier service. We ensure that every autoglass replacement meets rigorous safety standards and provides long-lasting durability.