Early in the automotive era, windshields (or windscreens as they were called) were made of ordinary window glass. The major problem with this is that accidents could cause serious injuries; of course. Over time a series of lawsuits led up to the development of stronger windshields. They were replaced with windshields made of toughened glass and were fitted in the frame using a rubber or neoprene seal. This hardened glass shattered into many mostly harmless fragments when the windshield broke. These windshields, however, could shatter from something as simple as a stone chip.
In 1919, Henry Ford solved the problem of flying debris by using a new technology founded in France called glass laminating. Windshields made using this process were actually two layers of glass with a cellulose inner layer. This inner layer held the glass together when it fractured.
The main force for innovation in windshields has been the need to prevent injury from sharp glass fragments. Almost all nations now require windshields to stay in one piece; always. Properly installed automobile windscreens are also essential to the safety of the vehicle occupants; along with the roof of the car, they provide protection in the case of a roll-over accident.
At KJS Autoglass, we take the time to insure your windshield fits and sits right on the frame. Safety is our number one priority; always.