Curing: What’s Normal, What’s Not

Right after install, a light haze or a few “water pockets” are normal. In warm, dry weather, curing typically takes 2–3 days; in cooler or humid conditions, plan for a week or more. Arizona heat can speed evaporation, but the adhesive still needs time to set—avoid rolling windows down until your installer’s recommended window (often 3–5 days). If haze lingers well past that, it’s worth a quick check.

First Cleans and Everyday Care

Wait until the film has fully cured before cleaning. Use an ammonia-free glass cleaner and a clean microfiber cloth with light pressure. Straight, gentle strokes keep edges tight; aggressive scrubbing—especially in corners—can lift the film. On the rear glass, wipe with the defroster lines, not across them.

Habits That Keep Tint Looking New

Think “gentle and predictable.” A soft squeegee is fine if you avoid pushing directly into borders. Skip blades, abrasive pads, and harsh solvents. If you’re clearing interior fog or winter frost, only scrape the exterior—the interior film can scratch easily. And if you love decals, place them on exterior surfaces; adhesives plus removal can stain or lift film over time.

Window Tint – What to Do When Something Looks Off

A small bubble during cure is normal; most disappear as moisture evaporates. Edge lifts usually come from rolling windows down too soon or cleaning too aggressively. Addressing small issues early prevents dust from creeping under the film and turning a minor touch-up into a full redo.

Want your tint to stay sharp for years, not months? Contact AGD for window tinting and aftercare advice – we’ll check edges, touch up problem spots, or refresh film with an option that fits your look and local laws.

Let’s take a closer look at how these two types of glass compare in terms of strength, safety, and function.

What Is Laminated Glass?

Laminated glass is typically used in windshields. It’s made by sandwiching a layer of plastic (usually polyvinyl butyral, or PVB) between two sheets of glass. This bonded structure holds together even when shattered, creating a “spider web” effect instead of sharp shards.

Benefits:

• High safety rating – reduces risk of ejection in a crash

• Sound insulation – blocks more outside noise

• UV protection – filters harmful rays

• Crack resistance – minor impacts may not cause full breakage

What Is Tempered Glass?

Tempered glass, used in side and rear windows, is created by heating and then rapidly cooling the glass, which increases its strength. When it breaks, it shatters into small, blunt pieces rather than dangerous shards.

Benefits:

• Stronger than standard glass

• Shatters safely on impact

• Less expensive than laminated glass

• Easy to replace

Laminated or Tempered Glass – Which One Is Better for Your Vehicle?

The answer depends on the location and purpose of the glass:

• Windshields almost always use laminated glass for better visibility and safety.

• Side and rear windows typically use tempered glass, but some newer models are switching to laminated for added protection against break-ins and noise.

If you’re considering upgrading or replacing auto glass, talk with a professional about your options. Depending on your driving habits and environment, it may be worth considering laminated side windows for added peace of mind.

AGD Can Help with Any Type of Auto Glass

Understanding the differences between laminated vs. tempered glass helps you make more informed decisions about your vehicle’s safety and comfort. Whether you’re replacing a broken window or just exploring options, choosing the right glass matters. Contact AGD for any of your auto glass needs, we’re here to help!

Road Trip 101: Start with the Right Window Tint

When you’re on the road for extended periods, exposure to sunlight can be draining. Window tint helps block harmful UV rays while keeping your car’s interior cool. This reduces the temperature inside the cabin, making it more comfortable for passengers and preventing your upholstery and dashboard from fading.

• UV Protection: Reduces the risk of skin damage from prolonged sun exposure.

• Improved Comfort: Keeps the cabin cooler during hot weather, saving on air conditioning.

• Energy Efficiency: Reduces the need for high AC use, saving fuel during long drives.

Enhancing Privacy and Security on Your Road Trip with Tinted Glass

Aside from comfort, tinted glass also offers increased privacy and security. Tinted windows make it harder for people to see inside your vehicle, providing peace of mind when you make stops along the way. Whether it’s to take a break, grab a bite to eat, or check out a scenic view, knowing your belongings are less visible adds an extra layer of protection.

• Privacy: Reduces the chances of opportunistic theft.

• Security: Deters potential intruders by making it more difficult to see inside your car.

Improved Visibility with High-Quality Windshield Glass

A clear and undamaged windshield is essential for maintaining visibility and safety while driving, especially in unfamiliar areas or during bad weather conditions. AGD offers high-quality windshield glass that provides superior clarity, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip. If your windshield has chips or cracks, it’s crucial to get it replaced before hitting the road to avoid further damage.

• Enhanced Clarity: Superior visibility reduces eye strain during long drives.

• Safety: Unobstructed views of the road help prevent accidents.

Energy Efficiency and Climate Control with Energy-Efficient Glass

For those looking to save on fuel and reduce their carbon footprint, energy-efficient glass can be a game-changer. This type of glass helps to keep the temperature inside your car more consistent, reducing the reliance on air conditioning and the need for excessive fuel consumption. It’s particularly useful during long road trips where climate control is key to staying comfortable.

• Fuel Savings: Less reliance on air conditioning means reduced energy consumption.

• Temperature Regulation: Helps maintain an even cabin temperature, reducing discomfort.

Investing in Road Trip Comfort with AGD’s Glass and Tinting Services

Upgrading your car’s glass and tint is an investment in your road trip comfort and safety. Whether you need to replace a damaged windshield, improve your car’s climate control, or enhance privacy, AGD offers expert services that ensure your vehicle is road-trip ready. Don’t hit the road without the comfort and protection that the right glass and tint can offer.

Contact AGD today to learn more about how we can transform your car into a road trip oasis.

Maintaining your RV auto glass is crucial for ensuring clear visibility and safety during travel. RVs face unique challenges, including long road trips and exposure to diverse weather conditions. Here are some essential tips to keep RV auto glass in top condition.

Tips for Maintaining Your RV Auto Glass

1. Regular Inspections

Frequent inspections of RV auto glass can help identify minor issues before they become major problems. Check for any chips, cracks, or scratches regularly. Early detection allows for timely repairs, preventing further damage and ensuring optimal visibility.

2. Clean with Care

Cleaning RV auto glass properly is vital to prevent damage and maintain clarity. Use a gentle, non-abrasive glass cleaner and a soft microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the glass. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, as they can deteriorate the rubber seals and tinting. For stubborn stains or residues, a mixture of vinegar and water can be effective.

3. Address Chips and Cracks Promptly

Even small chips or cracks can worsen over time due to the vibrations and impacts experienced during travel. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent them from spreading. Professional repair services can fill in chips and cracks, restoring the glass’s integrity and preventing the need for costly replacements.

4. Protect from Extreme Weather

Extreme weather conditions can take a toll on RV auto glass. During hot weather, the sun’s UV rays can cause the glass to expand and potentially lead to damage. In cold weather, the glass can contract, increasing the risk of cracks. Use protective covers when parked for extended periods and avoid sudden temperature changes, such as pouring hot water on a frozen windshield.

5. Check and Maintain Seals

The seals around RV windows and windshields are crucial for preventing leaks and maintaining structural integrity. Inspect these seals regularly for signs of wear or damage. If any seals appear compromised, replace them promptly to prevent water intrusion and further damage to the glass and surrounding areas.

6. Avoid High-Pressure Washers

While it might be tempting to use a high-pressure washer to clean your RV, it’s best to avoid this practice. High-pressure water can force its way into the seals and potentially cause damage to the auto glass. Stick to gentle cleaning methods and avoid directing water jets directly at the glass.

7. Store Properly

When not in use, store your RV in a covered or sheltered area to protect the auto glass from the elements. If indoor storage is not an option, consider using a protective cover that shields the vehicle from UV rays, rain, and debris.

Proper maintenance of RV auto glass ensures clear visibility, safety, and longevity of the glass. By following these tips, RV owners can enjoy a safer and more comfortable travel experience, free from the hassles of damaged or deteriorated auto glass.

Are you an RV enthusiast who is looking to elevate your road trip experience? If so, you’ve probably considered various ways to improve your RV’s comfort, appearance, and functionality. One often-overlooked upgrade that can make a huge difference in all of those aspects is RV window tinting. Below, we’ll look at the benefits of RV window tint and how it can transform your travel experience.

The Many Benefits of RV Window Tint

1. Energy Efficient Comfort

Tinting RV windows can reduce power consumption by reducing the amount of heat that enters the vehicle. When your car maintains a more stable internal temperature, it reduces the strain on the cooling system.

2. RV Window Tint Provides UV Protection for Your Vehicle’s Interior

RV window tint protects your skin and RV’s interior from harmful UV rays. It also prevents fading and deterioration of upholstery, curtains, and other interior furnishings.

3. Glare Reduction

Tint reduces glare, improves visibility, and makes driving safer. It is especially helpful for long drives on sunny days.

4. Enhanced Comfort for Extended Trips

RV window tint helps regulate the temperature inside an RV, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter for year-round comfort. 

5. Preserve Your RV’s Value

Window tinting can help preserve the value of your RV by protecting the interior from sun damage and making it more appealing to potential buyers.

The RV Window Tint Process

Before RV window tint can be installed, you must first choose the right shade of tint to match your preferences and needs for privacy, heat rejection, and UV protection. Once you have made your shade selection, the next step is professional installation. Experienced technicians will ensure precise application for optimal tint performance and appearance. 

Window tinting is a great investment for any RV enthusiast who wants to make their road trips more comfortable, energy-efficient, and enjoyable. It reduces glare, protects the interior of your RV, and preserves its value. So what are you waiting for? At AGD, we specialize in RV window tinting and offer top-quality service and results. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start enjoying total comfort and privacy on your next adventure.

For many, the Fourth of July equates to the ultimate celebration of summer. A lengthy, hot day of swimming, BBQ’s, and time with family and friends is finalized by fireworks and a late night drive home.

However, these particular celebrations also help to make our national holiday just about the most dangerous times during the the entire year for highway fatalities and alcohol-involved crashes.

Millions of Americans will hit the highway for this 4th of july, and high rates of drinking coupled with lots more people on the road can result in tragedy. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA), in 2014 alcoholic beverages was a factor in 41% of highway deaths during the 4th of July..

And even though data shows that there might be less alcohol accidents when Independence Day falls on a Mon-as it does this year; authorities still anticipate seeing a significant increase in drunk driving and alcohol-involved accidents starting today, Friday, July 1.

Here are several tips to help you stay safe and make it home without any unwelcome surprises:

1.  Drink at a steady rate. the 4th can be especially alcohol-fueled due to the fact many people start drinking early in the day and carry on right until the fireworks show. In addition, dehydration from summer level temperature means alcohol might have a particularly powerful punch. Set a limit to the quantity of drinks you will consume and alternate with water.

2.  Fireworks and Alcohol just don’t mix. If pyrotechnics are actually legal where you live and you plan to light a few sparklers as well as roman candles, be sure a person responsible is sober.

3.  Drunk boating are as dangerous as driving under the influence. Lots of people head to the lake to celebrate, but according to the CDC, nearly one-third of boating deaths are associated with alcohol. Most states include similar Blood alcohol content limits for operating a vessel and cruising, so boat operators should hold off on the drinks until everyone is back on dry land.

4.  Plan ahead for a sober trip home before the day’s celebrations start. Lineup a specified driver, save a cab company’s # into your phone, sign up for something like Uber or Lyft, or arrange to spend the night in a hotel nearby before even planning to drink.

AGD Auto Glass & Tint Co encourages all of you to drive safely this holiday weekend.  Just remember, if a rock chip flies up and cracks your window on the road, AGD will be here on the other side waiting for your safe return.  Ready and waiting to replace that windshield.

Have a Safe and Healthy July 4th from our family to yours!

AGD Auto Glass & Tint Co

3414 S Mill Ave | Tempe, AZ 85282 | 602-759-5900 | Website

find us on..         

Central: 602-759-5900
East Valley: 480-289-5108
West Valley: 602-275-5066

According to the latest stats from the AZ Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, in 2015 alone, there have already been 25,000 DUI arrests in the state of Arizona

Seven Thousand of those arrests were made for extreme DUI’s.  For someone to qualify for an extreme DUI, their BAC must be more than .15

In AZ, it is not legal for anyone to operate a car if they have an alcohol concentration of .08 and up within two hours of driving or being in actual physical command over the car, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

With New Year’s Eve just around the corner, many Arizona residents are gearing up for a weekend of get-togethers and drinking alcohol.

Fortunately for these people, there are several transportation options they can use to avoid being added to the list of DUI statistics that seem to continue to grow year after year.

Here is a small list of options for you and your friends if you are planning to party this year on New Years..

1.  UBER

Uber has teamed up with the Pima County Attorney’s Office to assist in reducing DUIs.  1ST timers can use the promo code FREETRIP for a free first ride up to $20. For every 1st ride, Uber will be donatating $5 to the Arizona Chapter of MADD.  

2.  LYFT

Lyft is another ride-sharing service  that will be partnering with MADD.

For everyone who pledges to help keep drunk drivers off the road, Lyft will donate $1 to MADD

 3.  TIPSY TOW

AAA Arizona is offering its “Tipsy Tow” services for New Year’s Eve from 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 31 through 6 a.m. Friday, Jan. 1.

Simply call 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) between the 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. deadline; state that a “tipsy tow” is needed, then provide the driver’s name, home address, phone number and vehicle/driver location.

4.  PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

5.  The Good Old School TAXI CAB will never cease to fail you.  They are just a call or text away.

6.  Designate a SOBER DRIVER.  YES. THEY EXIST.  Hey, we all have that someone in our group that just doesn’t drink.. use that friend to your advantage this New Years, and then thank them for keeping you safe.

No matter what you decide to do this New Year’s Eve, AGD Auto Glass & Tint Co wishes you a happy and safe New Year.

See you in 2016!!

 AGD Auto Glass & Tint Co.

3414 S Mill Avenue | Tempe Arizona

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE!

480-289-5108

Hollow-cheeked skeletons; warty-nosed witches; werewolves with blood-stained muzzles and vampires with swishing black capes.

Halloween wears many disguises, each more terrifying than the last – but why do we dress up on Halloween? Why do we carve pumpkins and accept candy from strangers? Many of the traditions we embrace on this spooky holiday come from surprising sources. Let’s take a look at a few of them now.

Jack-o-lanterns

If Halloween could be summed up in just one image it would be the jack-o-lantern. Can you imagine Halloween without jack-o-lanterns grinning at you from every porch you pass? I can’t!

I love the hunt for the perfect pumpkin… stomping through the fields as we compare size and color, imagining all the fun we’ll have stabbing it and ripping its guts out… then the fun of choosing just the right face to adorn it with; something a little sinister and a little jolly.

We all love the Halloween tradition of carving jack-o-lanterns – but do you know where the tradition comes from? Well, rumor has it that the ancient Celts carved faces into vegetables like turnips and beets to ward off witches and evil spirits (though some now debate the validity of that claim.)

The name ”jack-o-lantern” comes from an old Irish tale of a man called ”Stingy Jack” who made the mistake of trying to trick the Devil. You can read a full account of the story here.

Dressing Up

Modern Halloween costumes range from super scary to super sexy – but what were the first Halloween costumes like and where did the tradition begin?

The earliest Halloween costumes were designed to frighten, not entice. It was believed (and still is by modern pagans!) that the veil between the world of the living and the world of the dead was thinnest on Halloween. On that one night of the year, the dead could go for a wander.

Chances were, if you had to go out on Halloween night, you might just bump into a wandering spirit – which is where the Halloween costume originated. Ancient people took to hiding behind horrible guises in the hopes that any ghost they passed would think they were just a fellow spook.

Trick-or-treating

No Halloween night would be complete without a trip around the neighborhood, spooking neighbors and strangers alike into forking over handfuls of candy and chocolate bars. This behavior goes against everything our parents ever taught us about safety; every other day of the year accepting candy from strangers is a no-no – so why is it okay on Halloween?

The earliest trick-or-treaters were called ”soulers”. They were children and poor adults who went from home to home, asking for food in exchange for a prayer for the dead.

Strangely, an alternative version of trick-or-treating saw it as a Christmas tradition, in which local children would visit their neighbors in disguise and earn treats if no one could identify them.

So… this year, when you paint your face a ghoulish green and head out for a night of pranks and parties, past leering jack-o-lanterns and laughing children, spare a thought for the ancient traditions that led to the frightful fun that is our modern Halloween.

Always remember to stay safe on Halloween, especially while driving.  But more importantly, embrace the holiday, the season and the family and friends you have this year to spend it with.

AGD Auto Glass & Tint Co. 

3414 S Mill Ave | Tempe, AZ 85282 | 602-759-5900 | Website

find us on..         

Central: 602-759-5900
East Valley: 480-289-5108
West Valley: 602-275-5066

Windshield Repair/Replacement Services, Auto glass Film, Car Wraps & More Serving the valley as well as the entire state of Arizona. 

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