What type of glass is used in windshields?

Windshields are made from laminated glass, which consists of two pieces of glass with a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) sandwiched between them. This construction is crucial because it enhances safety; the PVB layer keeps the glass pieces bonded together even if they break, reducing the likelihood of injuries from flying shards in the event of an accident.

The correct answer relates to the concept of a "safety plate," which refers to the use of laminated safety glass in windshields. This type of glass provides structural integrity and increases the overall safety of the vehicle. Unlike tempered glass, which is commonly used in side and rear windows due to its strength and ability to shatter into small, less harmful pieces, laminated glass maintains its form and integrity during a collision.

Understanding the differences between safety plate glass and other types, such as tempered or high-strength glass, is essential for appraisers assessing vehicle damage and safety features accurately.