Your windshield does much more than keep bugs and wind out of your face while driving. It’s one of your vehicle’s most important safety components—but most people don’t realize just how vital it is until it gets damaged. At Glassco Auto Glass & Window Richmond, we’ve seen it all, and today we’re sharing a few surprising facts you probably didn’t know about your windscreen.
1. It’s a Critical Safety Feature—Not Just a Piece of Glass
Your windscreen is engineered to support the structural integrity of your vehicle. It helps prevent the roof from collapsing during a rollover accident and plays a crucial role in proper airbag deployment. A cracked or poorly installed windscreen can put you and your passengers at serious risk.
2. Windshields Are Made of Two Layers of Glass
Unlike ordinary glass, your screen is made from laminated safety glass—two layers of glass with a plastic layer (called PVB) in between. This design helps the glass stay together when shattered, reducing the risk of sharp fragments causing injury.
3. Chips Can Turn Into Cracks Overnight
That tiny stone chip may seem harmless today, but drastic temperature changes, vibrations from driving, or even moisture can cause it to spread into a full-blown crack. That’s why early repair is always recommended—it’s cheaper and safer in the long run.
4. Windshield Cameras Need Calibration After Replacement
Modern vehicles are equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like lane assist and automatic emergency braking, which rely on cameras mounted behind the windshield. After an auto glass replacement, these cameras must be calibrated to ensure your safety systems continue to work correctly. At Glassco Auto Glass & Window Richmond, we provide precise camera calibration as part of our advanced windscreen services.
5. Not All Windshields Are Created Equal
Windshields come in different qualities. Some aftermarket glass may not meet the same safety standards or fit perfectly as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass. A poor fit can lead to leaks, wind noise, and safety issues—so always ask your auto glass repair Richmond provider about the type of glass they use.
6. Insurance Might Cover Your Repair or Replacement
Many people pay out of pocket unnecessarily. Depending on your auto insurance policy, windshield replacement Richmond may be fully or partially covered—especially if the damage was caused by road debris. If you’re looking for windshield repair Richmond, it’s worth checking your coverage first.
7. Clean Windshields Improve Reaction Time
Believe it or not, a dirty windscreen can affect your visibility enough to slow your reaction time. Dust, grime, and streaks scatter light and create glare, especially during night driving. Keeping your screen clean inside and out is one of the easiest ways to stay safe on the road.
Your windshield is more than just a window—it’s a crucial part of your vehicle’s safety system. From preventing injuries to supporting high-tech features like ADAS, it deserves proper care and attention. If you’re in Richmond and notice a chip, or crack, or need full auto glass repair, Contact Glassco Auto Glass & Window Richmond the skilled team. We provide expert auto glass repair in Richmond, complete windscreen replacement, and precise camera calibration services to keep your vehicle safe and road-ready.
