Need classic car windshield repair service in Oakville? Call us at 905-339-0339
What you need to know
- Most classic car windshields are laminated. Road-use windshields in Canada follow CMVSS 205 rules and show legal markings. In the US the rule is FMVSS 205.
- Flat vintage windshields can be custom cut from laminated glass. Curved windshields need a reproduction or made-to-order piece. Cutting curved tempered glass will shatter it.
- Save original glass when safe. Small rock chips in laminated glass can often be repaired. CAA explains when repair makes sense vs replacement. Read their tips.
- Trim and gaskets matter. Many classics use rope-in rubber gaskets and bright stainless trim. The right seal and clips stop leaks and keep the look.
Why classic windshields different
Modern windshields are glued in with urethane. Many classics sit in a rubber gasket with metal trim. The glass is almost always laminated. By the 1950s, big wraparound windshields showed up. They look amazing, but they are harder to fit and need careful trim work. Cheap glass can look wavy and can spoil the drive.Repair or replace
Repair the original when
- The chip is small and clean
- It is not in your main line of sight
- You want to keep period markings
Replace when
- A crack runs from the edge or keeps growing
- You see white haze between the layers
- Wipers etched the view
- The glass is not correct for the car
Need a quick check first?
Sourcing vintage windshields and classic auto glass
- New-old stock or reproduction glass. Brands like Pilkington Classics produce laminated windscreens and can do bespoke jobs with period logos.
- Custom cut windshield glass for flat screens. We trace a pattern, cut laminated AS1 glass, polish edges, then rope it in with a new gasket.
- Made-to-order curved glass. For rare cars, a specialist can build it. Allow more time for tooling and shipping.
What custom windshield work looks like
- Template. For flat glass we make a rigid pattern or use the frame as a guide.
- Cut and edge. We cut laminated sheet, smooth the edges, and test fit.
- Markings. For road use we apply proper AS1 and safety marks per CMVSS 205 schedule.
- Gasket and trim. The correct rubber and clips are a must. Stainless trim needs gentle hands.
- Set and seal. Many classics use rope-in installs. Some later cars accept urethane. We match the method to your year.
Keywords for owners who search a lot: custom auto glass, custom windshields, vintage auto glass, custom automotive glass, custom cut auto glass.
Safety rules in Canada in plain words
If the car drives on public roads, the windshield must be laminated and carry approved markings that tie to Transport Canada guidance. In the US, FMVSS 205 covers aftermarket glazing too. These rules help keep you in the car during a hit and support the roof in a roll.Costs and timing
- Flat, custom-cut laminated windshield. Moderate cost. Often quick.
- Common reproduction curved screen. Higher cost. Often in stock.
- Rare made-to-order curved glass. Highest cost. Longer lead time.
- Extra parts. Gaskets, clips, sealant, and rust fix can add up.
- Labour. Careful removal, rust work, and trim fitting take time.
Aftercare
- Skip the car wash for 24 hours
- Do not slam doors the first day
- Change old wiper blades
- Use a good glass cleaner with no ammonia
- Check trim after the first drive
How to pick a “near me” shop
If you search classic car windshield replacement near me or classic car auto glass near me, call and ask:- Have you done rope-in installs with stainless trim
- Can you source vintage windshields from makers like Pilkington Classics
- Will the glass meet CMVSS 205 and show the mark
- Do you fix light rust at the frame
- Can you custom cut laminated glass for flat old car windows
- Do you warranty leaks
Local events and resources
- Canadian International AutoShow 2025 hosted a Cobble Beach Classics showcase in Toronto. Read the show news.
- Cobble Beach Concours d’Elegance. A must-see for glass and trim details on top restorations. Event site.
- Oakville’s Cruze Nights. Weekly summer meet at Oakville Place. Local coverage and the community page.
- Hagerty Garage + Social, Burlington. Climate-controlled storage near Oakville. Location details.
Side and rear glass on classics
- Side windows. Often tempered. If broken, they shatter into small pieces.
- Rear glass. Flat pieces are simple to make. Curved pieces need a correct reproduction.
- Quarter windows. Can be laminated or tempered based on year and position. We match the original spec when we can.