Whether you’ve had your vintage car for years or recently came into possession of it, caring for this vehicle isn’t as straightforward as modern vehicles. When these cars need to be restored, it can be incredibly difficult to source the materials necessary, including the glass. Unlike modern vehicles, the windshield and windows of your vintage car come in uncommon shapes and sizes.
But finding the right glass is essential to vintage car restoration, ensuring it maintains its classic appearance. Additionally, finding a glass provider who has experience creating and installing this glass ensures your safety while driving your vehicle. If you want to learn more about finding the right glass provider for your classic car and tips for care after installation, keep reading.
The Unique Challenges of Vintage Car Glass
There are many challenges an auto glass provider may face when helping you through your vintage car restoration. If your vehicle was built before the 1960s, the glass may be flatter and thinner than standard glass. It wasn’t until 1966 that the United States implemented the Highway Safety Act, the first step in setting comprehensive safety standards for automakers.
This law required automakers to install shatter-resistant glass in their vehicles to keep drivers safe in the case of an accident. If the glass on your vintage vehicle has never been replaced, it may not be as structurally sound as its more modern counterparts. Additionally, the shape and size of vintage windshields and windows differ greatly from modern vehicles.
While this might not seem challenging, it may present problems if you work with an auto glass provider who has never provided these services. You want to ensure the company you choose to work with has the ability to create and install the appropriate glass to ensure your vehicle maintains its appearance while keeping you safe on the road.
Why Quality Glass is Essential for Vintage Car Restoration
If you are spending hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars on vintage car restoration, you want to ensure you get the most out of this investment, including high-quality glass. Choosing the wrong glass for your vintage car can have a major impact on the aesthetics of your vehicle.
If you participate in car shows, this can compromise your standings, especially if you participate in classic-exclusive shows. Beyond the aesthetics of your vehicle, quality glass is essential for your safety as you drive down the road. While many classic cars spend much of their time in a garage, they still need to be road-safe.
With lower quality glass installed in your car, you risk shattering your windshield if it is hit by roadside debris, like rocks, nails, and loose construction debris. With the support of a quality glass provider, you can trust that these minor inconveniences won’t cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars to repair or remedy.
Tips for Finding the Right Glass Provider for Your Vintage Car Restoration
Finding the right glass provider for an upcoming vintage car restoration can be a difficult task, as some glass providers may not have the experience necessary. But, by following the tips below, you should be able to find a glass provider who will ensure the safety and aesthetics of your vintage car:
- Look for a glass provider with experience with vintage car restoration.
- Ask about their custom-cut glass options to ensure seamless restoration.
- Speak to members of classic car clubs in your area about their experiences.
- Find a team that provides warranties on their glass products.
- Ensure they have experience working with insurance companies.
- Ask for a portfolio of their work on previous vintage car restorations.
- Check their website and Google for customer reviews to ensure quality work.
- Look for an Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) certified team.
How to Care for Your Glass After Installation
After new glass is installed, there are a few things you need to do to ensure it looks and performs its best. The best way to maintain your auto glass includes:
- Keep the windshield clean and clear by regularly cleaning it.
- Replace windshield wipers when they are dry or cracked to prevent scratches.
- Avoid harsh or direct sunlight, which can lead to a more brittle windshield.
- Address windshield damage, like rock chips, as soon as they appear.
- Only use windshield cleaning solutions to clean the glass.
- Avoid washing your vehicle with a pressure washer.
If you’re experiencing damage to your windshield, even after proper care, it is essential that you reach out to an auto glass provider for support. They can provide crucial repairs or replacements to ensure you feel safe on the road again.
Your Trusted Vintage Vehicle Glass Provider
While it can be difficult to find a glass provider to help you through your vintage car restoration, it is an excellent way to maintain the safety and aesthetics of your vehicle. No matter what vintage vehicle you own, our team at Valley Glass is here and ready to help you restore its appearance and safety with premium glass products.
Whether you live on the Wasatch Front or in Idaho Falls or Boise, our team is committed to helping you design the perfect glass for your vintage car. With our team on your side, you can trust that your vintage car will stand out whenever it rolls out of the garage. From show cars to daily drivers, we’re equipped to do it all.
If you’d like to schedule glass replacement or repairs as a part of an upcoming vintage car restoration project, don’t hesitate to contact our team today.
