In cars, as with other everyday objects, there are very useful functions that keep them functional. This is the case with the black dots on windshields. These dots are known as “frit strips,” and their main function is to conceal and protect the easy-to-use adhesive used to secure the glass. For some reason, they are a decorative element, but that’s precisely why manufacturers find them irresistible when it comes to installing them.
This effective and aesthetically pleasing system was devised to replace the old gasket and chrome trim used to secure the car’s glass
You’ve probably noticed this pattern of dots that’s present on practically every car model. We’re talking about that strip of small black dots found on all car windshields, which often goes unnoticed. When a windshield needs replacing, technicians use this strip of black dots as the bonding point between the frame and the glass. This effective and aesthetically pleasing system was devised to replace the old gasket and chrome trim used to secure the car’s glass. Cars are constantly exposed to high and low temperatures, rain, and strong gusts of wind, so this method maintains the properties of the adhesive holding the glass in place, despite the high temperatures, rainwater, and strong gusts that cars are almost always subjected to.
These dots also act as a barrier against the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, which over time can weaken or damage the adhesion of the glass
This technique was developed out of the need for a material that could both adhere and protect. Starting in the 1950s, adhesives began to be used, but it was soon realized that they didn’t protect the surface and had poor adhesion. In fact, without these small circles of ceramic paint, the likelihood of the glass peeling off after prolonged exposure to high temperatures or large amounts of water would increase. These dots also act as a barrier against the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, which over time can weaken or damage the adhesion of the glass and other materials.
Thanks to this transition or fusion, the temperature is also better distributed during the glass’s baking process
This strip of dots, which might seem purely decorative, is actually quite useful and protects a part of the car that cannot be repaired. For example, if a rear window is damaged, it must be replaced, as repair is not possible, unlike with windshields. Regarding the chosen design, experts say that the dots eliminate the sensation of optical distortion, thus protecting the driver’s eyesight. Thanks to this transition or fusion, the temperature is also better distributed during the glass’s baking process, further minimizing optical distortion. The dots make the transition between the darkness inside the vehicle and the brightness of the outside world “pleasant.” Basically, were it not for these small circles of ceramic paint, the probability of our glass peeling off would increase when in contact with high temperatures or large amounts of water for a long time.
The dots also are on other vehicles like buses, trains, and even subway cars, and they serve the exact same purpose as car windows
Finally, it’s worth remembering that this strip of black dots isn’t just on cars. You may have noticed them on other vehicles like buses, trains, and even subway cars, and they serve the exact same purpose as car windows. In any case, experts recommend staying informed about the different features of our cars, since in most cases they are the primary means of transportation and, therefore, must be in perfect condition to ensure personal safety.