Glass Repair Industry Terminology

ADAS Calibration

The process of realigning and verifying advanced driver-assistance system sensors (cameras/radars) after glass service so features like lane keep, AEB, and ACC function within specification.

- After replacing the windshield, we scheduled a static ADAS calibration to realign the forward-facing camera. - The OEM service info calls for a dynamic calibration after a lane-departure camera sees a new glass. - We performed a pre-scan, calibrated, then post-scanned to confirm no ADAS fault codes remained.

Adhesion Primer

A chemical primer/activator applied to the glass and/or pinchweld to promote urethane adhesive bonding, corrosion protection, and proper cure.

- Apply the glass primer and pinchweld primer per the urethane’s TDS before setting the windshield. - Skipping adhesion promoter can lead to bond failure and water leaks. - Check primer shelf life and shake time before use.

AGR (Automotive Glass Repair)

The service category focused on repairing chips and minor cracks in automotive laminated glass rather than replacement, using resin injection and curing.

- Our AGR tech repaired a bullseye instead of replacing the windshield. - The shop specializes in AGR for fleets to minimize downtime. - AGR margins improve when we convert qualified cracks to repairs.

AGRSS Standard

The industry safety standard for automotive glass replacement practices (administered by AGSC), addressing materials, installation, and vehicle retention system performance.

- Our procedures follow the ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS standard for safe auto glass replacement. - The auditor checked our adhesive lot traceability for AGRSS compliance. - Training new installers includes AGRSS safety requirements.

ANSI Z97.1

A U.S. safety glazing standard for architectural applications specifying impact and fragmentation performance for materials like tempered and laminated glass used in buildings.

- The replacement shower door glazing is certified to ANSI Z97.1. - Inspectors may ask for ANSI Z97.1 markings on tempered storefront glass. - Our flat-glass vendor provides Z97.1 test reports on request.

Backlite

Automotive term for the rear window glass, typically tempered and often integrating defroster grids and antennas.

- The heated backlite shattered and needs a tempered replacement. - Verify the defroster connectors before installing the backlite. - We quoted a backlite with antenna and solar tint options.

Batch/Lot Number (Adhesive)

The manufacturer’s identifier on adhesives/primers used for traceability, quality control, and compliance documentation.

- Record the urethane batch number on the work order for traceability. - We quarantined adhesive lots that fell out of SDAT spec in QA testing. - The auditor verified primer lot numbers against our inventory logs.

Bullseye

A circular chip with a distinct dark impact ring in laminated glass; commonly repairable with resin injection.

- This bullseye is small, clean, and repairable under ROLAGS. - The bullseye has minor legs; we’ll drill and fill to prevent spread. - Cameras photographed the bullseye for the insurer’s claim.

Cold Knife

A manual pull-knife tool used to cut through existing urethane adhesive during glass removal.

- Use the cold knife to cut the old urethane bead along the A-pillars. - We switched from cold knife to wire-out on aluminum bodies to reduce scratches. - Keep blades sharp to avoid tearing the pinchweld paint.

Combination Break

A damage type in laminated glass that combines a bullseye with additional cracks or star legs; generally repairable under defined criteria.

- The chip shows a combo break: bullseye with star legs. - Combo breaks usually need both injector and pit-filler steps. - ROLAGS allows repair if outside the driver’s critical viewing area.

CSI (Customer Satisfaction Index)

A score or metric tracking customer satisfaction with service quality, timeliness, and overall experience.

- Our CSI dipped after longer lead times; we added mobile slots. - The insurer’s DRP measures CSI monthly for scorecard placement. - Post-repair surveys feed into our CSI metrics.

Cure Time

The period needed for adhesives (or resins) to fully polymerize and reach specified strength; distinct from the minimum safe drive-away time.

- At 70°F and 50% RH, the urethane’s full cure time is 24 hours. - Cure time differs from SDAT; the vehicle can be driven sooner. - Low temperatures extend cure time—use a winter-grade adhesive if needed.

Deductible

The out-of-pocket portion the insured pays on a covered glass claim before insurance benefits apply.

- The customer has a $100 deductible on their glass claim. - We collected the deductible onsite during mobile service. - Zero-deductible glass coverage varies by state.

Direct Repair Program (DRP)

A network arrangement where shops meet insurer criteria and receive referred claims, often under negotiated pricing and performance metrics.

- Joining the insurer’s DRP raised our referral volume. - DRP participation requires meeting cycle-time and CSI targets. - Our DRP agreement mandates AGRSS compliance.

DOT Number (DOT Code)

A marking required on automotive glazing indicating the manufacturer registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation; used for identification and compliance.

- The DOT code identifies the glass manufacturer and plant. - Inspect the DOT and AS markings to verify the correct spec. - We documented the DOT number in the work order photos.

EDI (Electronic Data Interchange)

Standardized, computer-to-computer transmission of claim assignments, invoices, and authorizations between shops, TPAs, and insurers.

- We submit glass invoices to TPAs via EDI for faster payment. - EDI cut our days sales outstanding by automating claim billing. - The new POS integrates EDI with LYNX and Safelite Solutions.

FMVSS 212/208

U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for windshield mounting (212) and occupant crash protection (208) that relate to glass retention and airbag support.

- Our urethane meets FMVSS 212/208 retention requirements when installed per TDS. - Document SDAT to show 212/208 compliance on airbag-equipped vehicles. - Training covers how FMVSS ties to windshield structural performance.

Frit Band

The black ceramic enamel around glass edges that provides UV protection to the adhesive, hides the bond line, and improves adhesion.

- Don’t scrape the frit; it improves UV protection and adhesion. - Clean the frit band with recommended activator before priming. - The frit hides the urethane bead for a clean appearance.

Glass Claim

An insurance claim specifically for vehicle or property glass damage, often administered via TPAs and subject to specific coverage terms.

- The TPA sent us a glass claim assignment for a windshield repair. - We verified coverage, deductible, and part pricing before dispatch. - Photos of the damage were uploaded to support the claim.

IGU (Insulated Glass Unit)

A factory-sealed double- or triple-pane glazing unit with spacers and desiccant, used in windows/doors for thermal performance; typically replaced, not repaired.

- The fogged double-pane IGU shows seal failure and needs replacement. - Measure IGU thickness, spacer color, and Low-E orientation for ordering. - Warm, dry storage helps preserve IGU desiccant life before install.

Impact Point

The initial strike location in a chip or crack where debris and crushed glass must be cleared to enable effective repair.

- Clean the impact point to remove crushed glass before injecting resin. - The star legs radiate from the impact point at 2 and 5 o’clock. - Cover the impact point with a curing tab after filling.

Laminated Glass

Two or more glass plies bonded with an interlayer (often PVB) that holds fragments together; used in windshields and some sidelites for safety and acoustics.

- Windshields are laminated to prevent ejection during a crash. - Many luxury vehicles use laminated front sidelites for sound damping. - Laminated glass allows chip repair under ROLAGS.

Leak Test (Water Leak Test)

A controlled inspection (typically with low-pressure water) to verify that a new glass installation is watertight without forcing water past seals.

- After install, we ran a controlled water leak test around the header. - Use low-pressure water and avoid forcing water under moldings. - No leaks detected; we documented results in the work order.

Low-E Coating

A microscopically thin, transparent coating that reduces heat transfer in architectural glass; orientation and handling are critical during service.

- Don’t use abrasive pads; Low-E coatings can scratch easily. - Verify which side has the Low-E when ordering an IGU. - Low-E affects visible light and heat gain; match the original spec.

Mobile Service

Performing glass repair or replacement at the customer’s location using outfitted service vehicles and portable equipment.

- Our mobile service brings windshield replacement to the customer’s home. - Mobile vans carry curing lamps to maintain SDAT in cold weather. - Dispatch optimized routes to reduce windshield mobile drive time.

Molding (Reveal Molding)

Trim pieces and seals around installed glass that cover edges, reduce wind noise, and direct water; may be reusable or require replacement.

- Replace the reveal molding to prevent wind noise after windshield install. - Some models reuse the molding; others require new clips and trim. - Tape the molding per TDS until the urethane sets.

MSDS/SDS (Safety Data Sheet)

Documentation detailing hazards, handling, PPE, and first-aid information for chemicals like adhesives, primers, and cleaners.

- Review the SDS for urethane to understand VOCs and PPE requirements. - Keep SDS binders in the shop and mobile vans per OSHA rules. - Technicians reference SDS when handling primers and cleaners.

NAGS (National Auto Glass Specifications)

An industry catalog and coding system for automotive glass parts, labor times, and benchmark pricing used for identification and billing.

- Look up the NAGS part number to verify the correct windshield with rain sensor. - Our POS ties labor times to the NAGS database. - Insurers often price from NAGS with agreed discounts.

NAGS List Price

The benchmark pricing published in NAGS used by shops and insurers as a starting point for glass part estimates and negotiated discounts.

- The estimate uses NAGS list price minus the network discount. - We justified a price add for ADAS calibration not in NAGS labor. - Tracking NAGS revisions helps keep pricing current.

OEM Glass

Glass produced by the original vehicle manufacturer’s supplier to factory specifications; often preferred for fit, optics, and sensor compatibility.

- The customer requested OEM glass to match factory tint and sensors. - Some ADAS systems specify OEM glass for reliable calibration. - OEM part availability affected our cycle time.

OSHA Compliance

Following Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations for workplace safety, chemical handling, and injury prevention.

- We trained techs on OSHA ladder safety and cut-resistant PPE. - OSHA requires SDS access and hazard communication in the shop. - Glass racks and lifting techniques are part of our OSHA program.

Pinchweld

The vehicle body flange/opening where the windshield or fixed glass bonds with urethane; must be clean, primed, and free of corrosion.

- Inspect the pinchweld for rust and repair before setting new glass. - Don’t overcut the urethane and expose bare metal on the pinchweld. - Primer promotes adhesion to the pinchweld’s painted surface.

Pit Filler (Resin)

A higher-viscosity resin used to cap and smooth the surface pit after a windshield chip repair, improving appearance and durability.

- After injecting resin into the break, apply pit filler to level the surface. - Cure the pit filler with a UV lamp and finish with a razor scrape. - Pit filler improves optics and protects the repair from weather.

Pre- and Post-Scan

Electronic diagnostic checks performed before and after service to document existing faults and verify system functionality, especially for ADAS.

- We pre-scanned for ADAS and body control faults, then post-scanned after calibration. - The insurer requires pre/post-scan reports in the claim file. - A post-scan confirmed the rain sensor reinitialized correctly.

Quarter Glass

A small fixed side window located behind the rear door (or on coupes), typically tempered; usually replaced when broken.

- The SUV’s quarter glass is tempered and must be replaced, not repaired. - Match privacy tint when ordering the quarter glass. - Adhesive-set quarter glass requires primer per TDS.

Resin (Windshield Repair)

UV-curable polymer injected into laminated glass damage to restore strength and improve optics; available in different viscosities and formulations.

- Choose a low-viscosity resin for star breaks in cooler temps. - Keep resin away from direct sunlight until you’re ready to cure. - Store resin bottles sealed to prevent moisture contamination.

ROLAGS Standard

The Repair of Laminated Automotive Glass Standard outlining acceptable repair criteria, procedures, and limitations for windshield damage.

- We used ROLAGS to determine that the crack length was still repairable. - Training includes ROLAGS repair zones and size limits. - Documentation cites ROLAGS when insurers question repairability.

Run Channel

The rubber/felt-lined track in a vehicle door frame guiding and sealing moveable door glass.

- A worn run channel caused the door glass to rattle and bind. - Lube the run channel and adjust the regulator after replacing the sidelite. - Water leaks can start at a distorted run channel.

Safe Drive-Away Time (SDAT)

The minimum time after installation before a vehicle can be safely driven based on adhesive type, temperature/humidity, bead size, and airbag configuration.

- Today’s SDAT is 60 minutes at 73°F/50% RH with dual airbags. - We informed the customer not to drive before the SDAT expires. - Colder weather increases SDAT unless we use a fast-cure urethane.

Scratch Removal

A process using abrasives (often cerium oxide) to remove superficial scratches from glass; limited by depth, location, and optical distortion risks.

- We polished out wiper scratches with cerium oxide and a felt pad. - Keep the glass cool during scratch removal to avoid distortion. - Deep gouges near the driver’s view may be unsafe to polish.

Setting Blocks

Small supports placed along the frame to position glass at the correct height and alignment during installation.

- Place setting blocks to maintain the OE glass height and reveal. - Incorrect block placement can cause wind noise or stress cracks. - We reused the setting blocks after inspecting for wear.

Static Calibration

An ADAS recalibration method performed with the vehicle stationary, using fixed targets and precise measurements to align sensors.

- The manufacturer calls for a static camera calibration with targets. - Our shop uses a calibrated floor and target fixtures for static ADAS. - After static calibration, we performed a road test to validate.

Tempered Glass

Heat-treated safety glass that’s stronger than annealed and fractures into small particles; commonly used for sidelites and backlites.

- The shattered sidelite is tempered, so it breaks into small cubes. - Tempered backlites aren’t repairable; order a replacement. - ANSI Z97.1 governs tempered glazing for architectural use.

Third-Party Administrator (TPA)

A company that administers glass claims for insurers, handling assignments, authorizations, and billing processes.

- The TPA authorized a repair after reviewing our photos. - We submit invoices to the TPA via EDI for faster payment. - TPAs manage DRP scorecards and NAGS pricing compliance.

Urethane Adhesive

A one- or two-component adhesive used to bond automotive glass to the vehicle body, providing structural retention and sealing.

- Apply the urethane in a continuous V-bead to avoid air pockets. - Use the manufacturer’s primers with the matching urethane system. - Winter-grade urethane maintains SDAT in cold conditions.

UV Curing Lamp

A light source emitting ultraviolet wavelengths used to cure windshield repair resins and pit fillers efficiently and consistently.

- We cured the chip repair resin with a portable UV lamp. - Check the lamp’s wavelength output and replace bulbs as needed. - Use a UV shield to protect surrounding surfaces during curing.

VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds)

Organic chemicals that vaporize easily and may affect air quality; regulated in many regions, relevant to cleaners, primers, and adhesives.

- Select low-VOC cleaners to meet shop air quality goals. - Adhesive SDS lists VOC content for compliance reporting. - Ventilate the work area to control VOC exposure.

Windshield

The front automotive glazing, typically laminated, contributing to vehicle structure, occupant protection, and housing sensors for ADAS.

- The windshield is laminated and integral to vehicle crash performance. - We verified the correct windshield with rain and humidity sensors. - Calibration was required after the windshield replacement.

Wire-Out System

A removal method using cutting wire or fiber line and guide tools to separate glass from the urethane bead, minimizing damage to surrounding surfaces.

- We used a fiber-line wire-out system to cut the urethane safely. - Wire-out reduces paint damage compared to a cold knife on tight A-pillars. - Always protect the dashboard when wire-outting the windshield.

Work Order

The job document capturing parts, labor, procedures, calibrations, quality checks, and customer acknowledgments for a glass service.

- The work order lists the NAGS part, DOT, adhesive lot, and SDAT. - Techs attach photos and signatures to the digital work order. - Our workflow requires a manager review before closing the work order.