PPG Prostars Certified Auto Glass Companies Receive UL Verification of Prostars Quality Standards for Service

UL, an independent, not-for-profit product-safety testing and certification organization, completed the verifications at PPG PROSTARS' locations nationwide.

"The results were impressive. The independently owned glass shops met or exceeded PPG PROSTARS' standards for a professional customer experience, including an established place of business with a welcoming environment," said Paul Rice, Director of PPG PROSTARS. That's important in an auto glass service business where weather conditions often dictate the need for cover to perform a safe and quality job. Rice added, "One hundred percent of the PPG PROSTARS' shops surveyed have at least one year business experience in the auto glass industry. A very high percentage of staff technicians have three of more years of glass installation experience or hold a certification from the National Glass Associations (NGA)."

The NGA, a not-for-profit organization that offers testing and certification to glass technicians, requires six months work experience as an industry auto glass technician for a Level 1 certification. In addition to experience and certification, PPG PROSTARS shops have access to one of the most comprehensive technician training programs in the country.

Steve Shaw, a long-time industry authority assisting PPG PROSTARS, says, "Windshield installation has changed over the years because of the aerodynamic design of today's vehicles. In most cases, windshields are no longer secured in place with metal frames, but held into position flush with the car's body and trim using a specialized adhesive. Windshield replacement is a technical multi-step process, and each step of the process must be done properly or it could affect the fit and functionality of the windshield." Shaw adds, "This is important because a vehicle's safety system and air bag performance depends on the proper installation of the replaced windshield. An improperly installed windshield can contribute to passenger-side airbag failure and possible roof collapse if an accident should occur."

During the visits, UL reviewed the shops' appearance, staffing, national warranty, and use of products from Original Equipment Manufacturers like PPG. PPG provides car manufacturers and the replacement industry with quality auto glass that has earned the Good Housekeeping Seal.

"Having the option to choose a glass shop that has gone through a PPG PROSTARS Quality Verification Check gives car owners reassurance when they need to have any vehicle's windshield replaced," concludes Shaw.