The combination of high-speed freeways, rock covered winter roads, and large temperature fluctuation makes Calgary roads a nightmare for your windshield. Vehicle design also plays a huge part in the problem. Every vehicle sold in North America has to pass a series of tests identified by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS)*. Five of these tests are windshield or glass related.
1. FMVSS 205 “Glazing Materials:”
2. FMVSS 212 “Windshield Mounting:”
3. FMVSS 216 “Roof Crush Resistance:”
4. FMVSS 219 “Windshield Zone Intrusion:”
5. FMVSS 208 “Occupant Crash Protection:”
Due to advancements in windshield adhesive strengths, vehicle manufacturers have been able to lighten the vehicle steal (improve fuel efficiently), thin down the “A” pillars (decrease blind spots) and still pass the 5 FMVSS standard. As a result of these design changes the windshield in newer vehicles bends and twists with the vehicle movement. This bending and twisting of the windshield is why a tiny chip near the edge of your windshield will often crack.
*FMVSS Information from PPG Auto Glass Trade Tips September-October 1996