Guide
Laminated vs tempered glass in cars
Your car uses two different types of safety glass. Knowing which is which explains why a chipped windscreen can be repaired but a broken side window can't.
By the Rapid Response Autoglass team · Updated
The short answer
Windscreens are laminated glass: two layers of glass bonded to a plastic interlayer, so they crack but stay in one piece and small chips can be repaired. Side and rear windows are usually tempered (toughened) glass, which shatters into small blunt pieces and has to be replaced.
Side by side
| Laminated | Tempered | |
|---|---|---|
| Used for | Windscreens, some side windows | Most side and rear windows |
| Made from | Two glass layers with a plastic (PVB) interlayer | Single sheet, heat-treated |
| When it breaks | Cracks but holds together | Shatters into small cube-like pieces |
| Repairable? | Small chips, yes | No — always replaced |
| Safety role | Supports roof and airbags, keeps occupants inside | Breaks safely, allows emergency exit |
Why it matters when you book
If your windscreen is chipped, a chip repair may be possible. If a side or rear window is broken, it's a replacement — and the broken glass needs vacuuming out of the door and cabin, which we do on site.
Some newer vehicles use laminated side glass for noise and security. Tell us your make and model and we'll order the correct glass.
Topic guide
Everything about chips and cracks
Topic guide
Everything about side and rear windows
- Overview: Side & rear windows ›
- Rear windscreen ›
- Side windows & door glass ›
- Car break-in repairs ›
- Quarter glass ›
- Laminated vs tempered glass
Frequently asked questions
Why didn't my side window crack like the windscreen?
Side windows are usually tempered glass, which is designed to shatter into small pieces rather than crack.
Can tempered glass be repaired?
No. Once tempered glass is damaged it fails completely, so it's always replaced.
How do I get a quote?
Call or text 0498 700 798 with the make, model and year of the vehicle, the suburb it's in and a photo of the damage, or use the quote form.
Related pages
Damaged glass? We'll come to you.
Call or text a photo of the damage for a quote. Mon–Fri 7am–5pm, Sat 10am–3pm.
0498 700 798