Sanding tempered glass? Yes-No?

[DavidG]

I find it a bit odd that your glass supplier would only do tempered glass for the side windows. '32 side glass window channels were designed for up to 1/4" thick glass as the deluxe models had laminated safety glass in all windows (the standards were only equipped with a laminated windshield and the side windows were plate glass, but laminated side glass was an extra-cost option for all of the standard models). In other words, the same glass was used in the side windows as was used in the windshield when so equipped and no tempered glass was used originally. That's why I find your glass supplier's requirement unusual, to say the least.

[hotrodA]

Yep!

Dealing with VINTAGE GLASS, LAWRENCEVILLE, GA was a learning experience.
Urging others to not make the same mistake. I was naïve and didn't do my due diligence.

[Drbrown]

All the glass in my '47 is laminated and original LOF (Libby Owens Ford). Got the marker bugs and bubbles in the edges of the laminate to prove it ! The rear window is "Herculite" tempered due to curved surface.

My local glass shop does laminated. Some shops insist on tempered because they get the higher price and less liability.

[Marvin/TN]

Don't believe you can cut, sand or other wise change the shape of tempered glass. Regular auto safety glass yes.

[hotrodA]

Cut and sanded a Masonite pattern today. Curious to see what changes are required to make it fit, if at all. Just pissed that after all the delays and BS that I put up with, I have to spend more money to fix this screwup.

STAY AWAY FROM VINTAGE GLASS, LAWRENCEVILLE, GA!!

[Charlie Stephens]

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Originally Posted by DavidG

I find it a bit odd that your glass supplier would only do tempered glass for the side windows. '32 side glass window channels were designed for up to 1/4" thick glass as the deluxe models had laminated safety glass in all windows (the standards were only equipped with a laminated windshield and the side windows were plate glass, but laminated side glass was an extra-cost option for all of the standard models). In other words, the same glass was used in the side windows as was used in the windshield when so equipped and no tempered glass was used originally. That's why I find your glass supplier's requirement unusual, to say the least.

I believe the logic of the supplier (and maybe the law) is that laminated safety glass is used for the windshield so a stone won't shatter it and go into the cab along with all of the glass fragments. The side windows are tempered so if you are trapped in the car they can easily break the windows with a single blow of a sharp object.

Charlie Stephens

[hotrodA]

You've nailed it! Makes perfect sense.

[51 MERC-CT]

Originally Posted by Charlie Stephens

I believe the logic of the supplier (and maybe the law) is that laminated safety glass is used for the windshield so a stone won't shatter it and go into the cab along with all of the glass fragments. The side windows are tempered so if you are trapped in the car they can easily break the windows with a single blow of a sharp object.

Charlie Stephens

My door glass is tempered because my outside door handles have been removed.
And this allows for an emergency access into the car, But tempered glass became the norm with the introduction of curved side glass. Any safety factor was just a secondary consideration.

[Karl Wescott]

Too many people today are used to tempered glass where with the window half down you can reach out and use the glass as a handle to close the door. Especially on a 3 window or tudor this will likely crack safety glass.


For a driver or a street rod imho tempered is a clear choice. A true restoration needs OEM style safety plate.

[GB SISSON]

As for the original question about sanding tempered glass (or any glass), I would wear a good mask or respirator. I have various belt sanding devices in my wood shop, but I can only imagine what that dust from ground glass looks like under a microscope. Bad for lungs I think.