The windshield is often overlooked until a rock chip appears, but it is one of your vehicle's most critical safety components. It’s far more than a clear screen against the elements; it's a structural element engineered to protect you in an accident. At Alpine Auto Glass in Williston, ND, we understand this vital role, which is why we insist on precise, professional installation every time. Trusting your windshield replacement to certified experts is an investment in your safety.
Why Your Windshield is a Safety Feature (Not Just a Window)
The Roof Support System
Your windshield provides up to 60% of your vehicle’s roof support in a rollover accident. The laminated glass and the strong, specialized adhesive create a single, rigid structure that helps prevent the roof from crushing down. A poorly installed windshield cannot provide this structural support, compromising the integrity of your entire vehicle.
Airbag Deployment Backstop
When the passenger-side airbag deploys, it explodes upward toward the windshield. The glass acts as a crucial backboard, allowing the airbag to properly inflate and angle correctly toward the passenger. If the windshield is chipped, cracked, or improperly bonded, the force of the airbag could push the glass out, preventing the airbag from protecting the occupant.
Laminated Glass Prevents Ejection
Unlike side windows, which are tempered to shatter into small pieces, your windshield uses laminated glass—two layers of glass sandwiching a vinyl layer (PVB). This lamination prevents objects from entering the cabin during high-speed impacts and, most importantly, keeps passengers safely inside the vehicle during a collision.
Supporting Advanced Driver Systems (ADAS)
Modern vehicles rely on the windshield to house sensors and cameras for features like lane-keep assist, automatic braking, and cruise control. Following a replacement, these systems require precise calibration to function correctly. Alpine Auto Glass ensures the replacement and calibration are handled to factory standards, preserving your vehicle's advanced safety features.
Don't gamble with your vehicle's structural safety by choosing a cheap or inexperienced replacement service. A proper windshield installation is a technical job that saves lives. If your windshield is damaged, contact the certified technicians at Alpine Auto Glass in Williston, North Dakota, today for a free consultation and professional service.