Any glass guys here (windshield question)

[toddshotrods]

I'm working on a CAD model for the windhield frame for my hot rod, and have a couple questions about actually mounting the glass in it.

1. What thicknesses are available and/or recommended for the laminated windshield glass?
   
2. What are the options for mounting the glass, without a conventional rubber channel - clear silicone?
   
3. How wide does the channel have to be for the respective thickness of glass; e.g. a few thousandths over, an extra eighth of an inch?
   
4. Any special tricks possible or needed in the channel shape?